This One-Pan Creamy Pierogi with Turkey Sausage is the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Every forkful combines tender, pillowy pierogi with savory turkey sausage, all coated in a lusciously smooth cheddar-infused sauce. This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans. With only one pan to wash afterward, you’ll spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing pots. From the first sizzle of turkey sausage browning in olive oil to the final sprinkle of fresh parsley, each step is designed to be simple, approachable, and downright delicious—even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen.
Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this hearty one-pan meal hits all the right notes. The turkey sausage brings a lighter twist on classic comfort food, while the frozen pierogi soak up the rich chicken broth and heavy cream, creating a sauce that’s both velvety and indulgent. Armed with just a handful of everyday ingredients, you’ll unlock flavors that taste like they’ve simmered all day—even though you only spent 10 minutes prepping and 20 minutes cooking. Serve it as a satisfying lunch, a cozy dinner, or pack it up for lunches throughout the week. With about 450 calories per serving and beginner-friendly steps, this creamy pierogi skillet is guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe rotation.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN ONE-PAN CREAMY PIEROGI WITH TURKEY SAUSAGE
Before diving into the step-by-step process, let’s take a closer look at the star players of this dish. Each ingredient works in harmony to build layers of flavor, texture, and creamy richness. No fancy spices or obscure pantry items—just straightforward components that pack a punch.
- Olive oil
A heart-healthy fat that provides a smooth base for cooking. It helps brown the turkey sausage and gives the onions and garlic a silky sheen as they sweat and release their sweetness.
- Turkey sausage
Lean and flavorful, sliced turkey sausage adds a robust, smoky depth. It crisps up beautifully when seared, infusing the entire skillet with its savory goodness.
- Onion
When chopped and sautéed, onions bring a natural sweetness and aromatic foundation. They soften and mingle with garlic, setting the stage for a well-rounded sauce.
- Garlic
Minced garlic lends bright, pungent notes that cut through the richness of the cream and cheese, ensuring every bite has that irresistible garlicky kick.
- Chicken broth
Acting as the cooking liquid for the pierogi, chicken broth infuses them with gentle, savory flavors. It also serves as the base of our creamy sauce, adding depth without heaviness.
- Frozen pierogi
These Polish dumplings, often filled with cheese and potato, soak up flavorful liquids and maintain a tender, pillowy texture. They’re the heart of this comforting one-pan meal.
- Heavy cream
Rich and velvety, heavy cream transforms the broth into a luxurious sauce. It provides a silky mouthfeel that envelopes each pierogi in indulgence.
- Shredded cheddar cheese
Sharp and melty, cheddar cheese brings tangy complexity and extra creaminess. It helps thicken the sauce and adds that quintessential cheesy comfort.
- Salt and pepper
Simple seasonings that balance and enhance all the layers of flavor. A generous pinch of salt and a crack of black pepper tie everything together.
- Fresh parsley
Bright green flecks of parsley add a burst of freshness and color, cutting through the richness and giving the dish a vibrant finish.
HOW TO MAKE ONE-PAN CREAMY PIEROGI WITH TURKEY SAUSAGE
Let’s walk through how to turn these ingredients into a creamy, hearty skillet dinner in less than 30 minutes. Follow these steps to achieve perfectly cooked pierogi, flavorful sausage, and a dreamy cheese sauce—all in one pan.
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the sliced turkey sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5–7 minutes. The goal is to render some fat and develop a golden crust. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Sauté over medium heat until the pieces turn translucent and start to soften, about 3–4 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to release that natural onion sweetness.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn—garlic cooks quickly and can turn bitter if overcooked.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This step deglazes the pan, scraping up any flavorful brown bits left from the sausage and onions.
5. Add the frozen pierogi directly into the skillet, stirring gently to coat them evenly in the simmering broth. Cover the pan and cook for 8–10 minutes, or until the pierogi are heated through and tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce turns creamy and smooth, enveloping each pierogi in cheesy goodness.
7. Return the cooked turkey sausage to the skillet, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring every element sings together in harmony.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, adding a pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness to balance the rich, creamy sauce.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR ONE-PAN CREAMY PIEROGI WITH TURKEY SAUSAGE
When it comes to serving this One-Pan Creamy Pierogi with Turkey Sausage, presentation and pairing can elevate the experience even further. Whether you’re dishing it out family-style or plating individual portions, a few thoughtful accompaniments and garnishes can take this hearty meal to the next level. With its rich, creamy sauce and savory sausage, you’ll want side dishes and beverages that complement without overpowering. From crisp, refreshing greens to warm breads that sop up extra sauce, these suggestions will ensure every bite feels special.
- Serve with a crisp green salad
Toss together mixed baby greens, thinly sliced cucumber, and cherry tomatoes. Dress lightly with a tangy vinaigrette to provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the pierogi skillet.
- Add a squeeze of lemon
A few drops of fresh lemon juice over the finished dish can brighten flavors and cut through the creaminess, balancing the savory notes of sausage and cheese.
- Offer crusty bread or rolls
Warm, crusty bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce. A garlic-infused loaf or a rustic baguette adds texture and makes the meal feel extra comforting.
- Pair with a light white wine or sparkling water
Choose a crisp, unoaked Chardonnay or a dry Riesling to complement the creamy sauce. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a twist of lime keeps the palate refreshed.
HOW TO STORE ONE-PAN CREAMY PIEROGI WITH TURKEY SAUSAGE
Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or saving leftovers for a quick lunch, proper storage keeps your creamy pierogi dish tasting as fresh as the day you made it. The luxurious sauce and pillowy pierogi hold up well when stored correctly, so you can enjoy this comforting skillet meal long after cooking day. Below are a few tips to preserve flavor, texture, and creaminess.
- Refrigerator storage
Allow the dish to cool slightly, then transfer to an airtight container. Label with the date and store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
- Freezer storage
Spoon cooled portions into freezer-safe, airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Press out excess air and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating slowly on the stovetop to maintain creamy consistency.
- Reheating on the stovetop
For best results, reheat the skillet leftovers over low to medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and add a small amount of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. This keeps the pierogi from becoming gummy.
- Reheating in the oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftovers in an oven-safe dish, cover loosely with foil, and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil in the last 5 minutes for a lightly browned top.
CONCLUSION
Thanks for sticking with me through this delicious romp of creamy sauce, tender pierogi, and savory turkey sausage. This One-Pan Creamy Pierogi with Turkey Sausage is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With just a handful of ingredients, one skillet, and under 30 minutes, you’ve got a family-pleasing meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Remember, the beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility—swap in your favorite sausage or add extra veggies, and make it your own. With a total prep time of 10 minutes, cook time of 20 minutes, and about 450 calories per serving, it’s a balanced choice for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
Feel free to print this article or save it to your recipe collection for later reference. You’ll also find a handy FAQ section below to tackle any questions or troubleshooting tips. If you give this recipe a try, please drop a comment with your cooking experience, share any tweaks you made, or ask for help if something didn’t turn out quite right. Your feedback and stories are what make our kitchen conversations so lively and inspiring. Happy cooking, and may your pierogi always be creamy and your sausage perfectly browned!
One-Pan Creamy Pierogi with Turkey Sausage
Description
Experience the rich flavors of turkey sausage and cheesy pierogi in a creamy sauce, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey sausage slices and cook until they are browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove sausage from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
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Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
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Add the frozen pierogi directly to the skillet and stir gently to coat them in the broth. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the pierogi are heated through and tender.
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Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
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Return the cooked turkey sausage to the skillet, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Note
- Pierogi are Polish dumplings that can be filled with a variety of fillings; cheese and potato is a popular choice.
- This dish can be customized with different types of sausages or even vegetarian options.
- Make sure not to overcook the pierogi to maintain their delicious texture.
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
