Poor Man'S Pierogies(Potato Stuffed Shells)
Creamy and cheesy potato-stuffed shells topped with sautéed onion make a comforting, affordable meal suitable for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook large pasta shells according to package directions and let cool.
- Prepare instant mashed potatoes as directed, reducing 1/4 to 1/2 cup of milk and adding Velveeta cheese to the boiling water.
- Let the mashed potatoes cool slightly.
- While shells and potatoes are cooling, sauté diced onion in butter until translucent.
- Pour 1/2 inch of the sautéed onion and butter mixture into the bottom of a cake pan.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the prepared mashed potatoes and cheese mixture.
- Place the stuffed shells in the cake pan on top of the onion and butter layer.
- Bake until heated through and cheese is melted, about 20-25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider using cream cheese instead of Velveeta, or mix in some sour cream for added tang. If you want a healthier version, use fresh potatoes instead of instant mashed potatoes. Adding herbs like chives or dill can enhance the flavor, while sautéing the onions in olive oil instead of butter can make it a bit lighter. This dish is a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes from Mom's Old Fashion Chicken Dumplins.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these pierogies with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley for added freshness. They pair beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving them alongside some sautéed greens or a warm bowl of soup, such as a creamy potato or vegetable soup.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stuffed shells in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Poor Man'S Pierogies(Potato Stuffed Shells) contains roughly 127 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 11g fat.
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 stuffed shells before baking them?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed shells before baking. Assemble the shells and place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
What can I substitute for the butter in this recipe?
If you're looking for a substitute for butter, you can use olive oil or coconut oil for sautéing the onions. For the layer at the bottom of the pan, consider using vegetable broth for a lighter option. This will still give you flavor without the added fat.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure that the cheese used is vegetarian-friendly. You can also add more vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, into the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
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).