Name: Pierogi with Onion Gravy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Eastern European
Ingredients: 16 frozen or homemade pierogi (potato and cheese, meat, or preferred filling); 2 tbsp butter; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced; 1–2 tbsp flour; 1 cup beef or vegetable broth; 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional); 1/2 tsp garlic powder; Salt and black pepper to taste; Sour cream for garnish; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Pierogi with Onion Gravy is a comforting, savory dish that showcases tender dumplings filled with classic ingredients, topped with rich, caramelized onion gravy and a dollop of sour cream. A staple of Eastern European cuisine, this dish is a satisfying blend of soft, buttery textures and deep, flavorful sauces.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pierogi with Onion Gravy is the perfect combination of homestyle comfort and restaurant-quality richness. Here’s what makes this dish so special:

Classic Comfort Food: Warm, filling, and deeply nostalgic.
Versatile Fillings: Cheese, potato, or meat fillings all work beautifully.
Rich Onion Gravy: Adds depth and an irresistible savory note.
Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that works for weeknight dinners or festive occasions.
Make Ahead Friendly: Pierogi and gravy can be made in advance and reheated.
Vegetarian Option: Easily adapted with meat-free fillings and stock.

Whether served as a main course or a special side, this dish brings tradition and taste together in every bite.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

frozen or homemade pierogi (potato and cheese or your preferred filling)
butter
olive oil
yellow onions, thinly sliced
beef or vegetable broth
flour (for thickening)
Worcestershire sauce (optional)
garlic powder
black pepper
salt
sour cream (for garnish)
fresh parsley (optional)

directions

Prepare the Pierogi
If using frozen pierogi, boil in salted water for 3–4 minutes or until they float. Drain and set aside.
Make the Onion Gravy
In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and olive oil. Add thinly sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring frequently, until golden and caramelized (about 15–20 minutes).
Build the Gravy Base
Sprinkle in 1–2 tablespoons of flour and stir for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually add broth while stirring, about 1 cup total. Add Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.
Pan-Fry the Pierogi
In another pan, melt a bit of butter and lightly brown the boiled pierogi on each side until golden and crisp.
Combine and Serve
Serve pierogi on a plate or in a shallow bowl, smothered in onion gravy and topped with a spoonful of sour cream and chopped parsley.

Servings and timing

Yield: 4 servings (3–4 pierogi per person)
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

There are countless ways to put a personal spin on this comforting classic:

Mushroom Gravy: Add sautéed mushrooms to the onion gravy for an earthy twist.
Spicy Pierogi: Add a pinch of chili flakes or hot sauce to the gravy.
Cheesy Topping: Sprinkle with shredded cheese just before serving.
Bacon Crumble: Top with crispy bacon bits for added flavor and crunch.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, sour cream, and stock for a fully vegan meal.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Pierogi can be frozen (if homemade). Gravy is best made fresh, but can be frozen for 1 month.
Reheating: Reheat pierogi in a skillet for crispness. Reheat gravy gently on the stove, adding broth as needed to loosen it.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pierogi?

Yes, high-quality frozen pierogi work perfectly and save time.

What are the best pierogi fillings for this recipe?

Potato and cheese, sauerkraut, mushroom, or meat-filled pierogi all pair well with onion gravy.

How long should I caramelize onions?

About 15–20 minutes on medium-low heat to develop a rich, golden brown color.

Can I make the gravy ahead of time?

Yes. It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently and stir in extra broth if it thickens.

Are pierogi always pan-fried?

Boiling is traditional, but pan-frying after boiling adds extra texture and flavor.

What kind of broth should I use?

Beef broth gives the richest flavor, but vegetable broth works for a lighter, vegetarian option.

Can I skip the flour in the gravy?

Flour helps thicken the sauce. For a gluten-free option, use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

What pairs well with pierogi?

Serve with roasted vegetables, a green salad, or steamed cabbage for a complete meal.

How do I make homemade pierogi?

Prepare a simple dough with flour, egg, water, and salt. Roll out, fill with your choice of mashed potatoes, cheese, or meat, then boil and pan-fry.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A dry white wine or light red like Pinot Noir complements the richness of the gravy and the mildness of the pierogi.

Conclusion

Pierogi with Onion Gravy is a delicious homage to Eastern European comfort food, combining tender dumplings with a luscious, savory sauce that elevates the dish to new heights. Easy enough for a cozy dinner yet impressive enough for guests, this recipe offers heartwarming satisfaction with every forkful. Whether you’re honoring tradition or just exploring bold new flavors, this dish is guaranteed to impress.