Mother-In-Law'S Good Pierogi

Prep: 30 min Cuisine: Eastern European

Mother-In-Law's Good Pierogi features tender potato and cheese filling wrapped in dough, perfect for cozy family meals or festive gatherings with rich, comforting flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups flour
  • 1/4 cup Crisco
  • 6 to 8 potatoes
  • 3/4 pound Longhorn cheese
  • 2 or 3 onions
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 sticks butter

Instructions

  1. Mix flour, Crisco, salt, and beaten eggs well.
  2. Add a small amount of water, less than 1/2 cup, to make a stiff dough.
  3. Knead the dough for 5 to 10 minutes on an unfloured surface.
  4. Cover the dough with a bowl and let it rest.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of Crisco in the dough. If you're short on time, pre-made pierogi dough can be used. Ensure the potatoes are well-drained after boiling to prevent a watery filling. For a variation, add cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms to the filling for extra depth. Serve with sour cream or caramelized onions for an authentic touch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your pierogi with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh chives, or crispy bacon bits for an added crunch. They pair beautifully with sautéed onions or a side of Tita Biscuits for a filling meal. Consider serving alongside a light salad to balance the richness of the dish.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover pierogi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, pan-fry them in butter until golden and crispy, or boil them briefly if you prefer a softer texture. Freezing is also an option; just ensure they are separated on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Mother-In-Law'S Good Pierogi contains roughly 1737 calories, with 28g protein, 271g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (64% of the Daily Value), protein (55% of the Daily Value), and iron (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2182mg per serving (95% of the Daily Value).

1737 kcal 87% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 27.7g 55% DV
Total Fat 60.6g 78% DV
Carbs 270.9g 99% DV
Fiber 9.6g 34% DV
Sugar 0.6g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2181.5mg 95% DV
Potassium 2995.7mg 64% DV
Cholesterol 462mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 94.5mcg 11% DV
Vitamin C 31.5mg 35% DV
Calcium 381.4mg 29% DV
Iron 8.5mg 47% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze the pierogi before cooking them?

Yes, you can freeze the pierogi before cooking. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, you can boil them directly from the freezer without thawing.

What can I use instead of Longhorn cheese?

If Longhorn cheese is unavailable, you can substitute it with sharp cheddar cheese or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a similar flavor profile. Adjust the amount based on your taste preferences, as different cheeses will yield varying textures and tastes.

How do I know when the dough is ready?

The dough is ready when it is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky. Kneading for about 5 to 10 minutes should achieve this texture. If the dough is too dry, add a little water; if it's too wet, sprinkle in a bit more flour until it reaches the desired consistency.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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