Pierogi and Meatball Skillet

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table, then let me introduce you to my favorite dish: the Pierogi and Meatball Skillet. This hearty one-pan dinner combines tender pierogies and homemade meatballs in a creamy sauce infused with nutmeg and allspice. It’s a dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that only requires one pan to clean?

Every time I make this recipe, I’m reminded of family dinners where laughter and good food filled the air. The blend of flavors and textures in this skillet is simply irresistible—crispy on the outside yet soft on the inside. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet night at home, this dish brings everyone together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan wonder: Save time on cleanup with everything cooked in just one skillet!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the delicious combination of flavors.
• Quick preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have dinner ready in no time.
• Comforting flavors: The creamy sauce with warm spices makes every bite feel like a hug.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare the meatballs in advance for an even quicker dinner option.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to whip up this delightful meal. You probably have most of these staples in your kitchen already!

• 1/3 cup whole milk
• 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 2 garlic cloves, grated
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
• 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper, divided
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 pound lean ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground beef
• 3 tablespoons salted butter, divided
• 1 box (16 oz) frozen pierogies
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill, for serving

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or peas for extra nutrition and color.
• Change the cheese: Sprinkle some grated cheese over the top before serving for an indulgent touch.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce if you like a little heat!

How to Make Pierogi and Meatball Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine 1/3 cup whole milk and panko breadcrumbs. Let them sit until the milk is absorbed; this step ensures that your meatballs stay moist. After about 5 minutes, add in an egg, grated garlic, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and allspice. Mix well before folding in both types of ground beef. Form them into about 20 meatballs using a cookie scoop—this keeps them uniform in size and helps them cook evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Pierogies

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the frozen pierogies along with some water—this will steam them nicely. Cover and let them soften for about 2 to 3 minutes before removing the lid. Allow them to pan-fry until lightly golden; this adds delicious texture. Once done, set them aside on a plate while we work on those tasty meatballs.

Step 3: Fry the Meatballs

In that same skillet now empty but still fragrant from cooking those pierogies, heat olive oil until shimmering. Add your formed meatballs in one layer—this ensures they get beautifully golden all around! Cook for about 7 to 9 minutes until they are fully cooked through. Transfer these juicy bites to a plate when done and pour off any excess grease from the pan.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Melt the remaining butter in that same skillet over medium heat and add chopped onion. Sauté until soft and golden; this process brings out their natural sweetness which balances out our savory dish beautifully! Sprinkle flour over this mixture next; it helps thicken our sauce later on. Whisk constantly as you slowly add beef broth and remaining milk—keep stirring until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine It All

Reduce heat to low once your sauce has thickened nicely and whisk in Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard for depth of flavor. Now it’s time to gently fold those pierogies and glorious meatballs back into the skillet along with any juices from resting on their plate! Stir everything together so every bite is coated with that rich sauce, then heat through.

Step 6: Serve It Up

To serve this delightful Pierogi and Meatball Skillet, sprinkle fresh parsley or dill on top if desired! Gather around your table with loved ones—it’s time to dig into comfort food heaven!

Enjoy every last bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pierogi and Meatball Skillet

Cooking should be a joyful experience, and with these tips, you’ll make your Pierogi and Meatball Skillet even more delightful!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs can elevate the flavors in your dish, providing a vibrant taste that dried alternatives simply can’t match.

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cooking meatballs in batches ensures they brown evenly and develop that delicious crust, leading to a better texture overall.

• Adjust the seasoning: Taste the sauce before adding the pierogi and meatballs; it may need a little extra salt or pepper depending on your preference.

• Experiment with toppings: Adding a sprinkle of grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream can introduce extra richness and flavor to your finished dish.

• Make ahead for convenience: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator. This will save you time during busy weeknights!

How to Serve Pierogi and Meatball Skillet

Serving your Pierogi and Meatball Skillet is all about presentation and creating an inviting atmosphere. Here are some ideas to make your meal extra special.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or dill not only add a pop of color but also enhance the flavor profile.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop of creamy goodness adds richness and balances out the savory elements of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: A light side that adds vibrant color and nutrients, complementing the heartiness of the skillet.
• Simple green salad: A refreshing mix of greens with a light vinaigrette can provide a crisp contrast to the creamy pierogies.
• Roasted carrots: Sweet, caramelized roasted carrots bring an earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory meatballs.
• Garlic bread: Perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce, garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser alongside this comforting dish.

Enjoy creating this wonderful one-pan dinner! Whether it’s a cozy family night or you’re hosting friends, this Pierogi and Meatball Skillet is sure to impress. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pierogi and Meatball Skillet is not only delightful but also fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion the skillet into freezer-safe containers.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw the frozen skillet in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between each, until hot.

FAQs

Have questions about making this delicious dish? Here are some common ones!

Can I make this Pierogi and Meatball Skillet ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just follow the storage instructions provided above for the best results.

What can I serve with my Pierogi and Meatball Skillet?

This dish is hearty enough on its own but pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. A side of crusty bread is also great for soaking up the creamy sauce!

How do I customize my Pierogi and Meatball Skillet?

Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or substitute different proteins if desired! The creamy sauce is versatile, allowing you to get creative while keeping the core flavors intact.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Yes! You can use plant-based meat substitutes instead of ground beef. Additionally, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or lentils for texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Pierogi and Meatball Skillet as much as I do! It’s a comforting, hearty meal perfect for any night of the week. Don’t hesitate to put your own spin on it—I believe cooking should be fun and personal. Happy cooking!