This hearty, one-pan meal brings together the smoky richness of kielbasa, the crispy golden texture of fried pierogies, and the buttery goodness of sautéed cabbage. Every bite is packed with flavor, making it the perfect go-to meal when you need something quick, comforting, and satisfying. Not only is this dish incredibly easy to make, but it also saves time by skipping the extra steps no need to boil pierogies separately! Just toss everything into the pan, let it sizzle, and enjoy a dinner that’s packed with bold flavors and traditional Polish inspiration. Pair it with a dollop of sour cream for the perfect finishing touch.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 12 oz smoked kielbasa, cut into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 16 oz frozen pierogies (mini pierogies cook faster but are optional)
- 14 oz coleslaw mix
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or corn, vegetable, or canola oil)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a large frying pan with high sides, heat the oil and butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the coleslaw mix, stir well, cover, and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add the kielbasa, frozen pierogies, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pierogies are golden brown and tender.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 563 kcal | Servings: 4
A Taste of Tradition
Kielbasa and pierogies are classic components of Polish and Eastern European cuisine. Kielbasa, a flavorful smoked sausage, has been enjoyed for centuries in Poland and other Slavic countries. It is often made with pork, beef, or a combination of both, and is seasoned with garlic, pepper, marjoram, and other spices. The distinct smoky taste of kielbasa makes it an excellent addition to various dishes, whether grilled, pan-fried, or cooked in stews and casseroles.
Pierogies, on the other hand, are soft, pillowy dumplings filled with a variety of ingredients, including mashed potatoes, cheese, sauerkraut, or meat. These dumplings have been a staple in Polish and Ukrainian kitchens for generations, often served with sautéed onions, sour cream, or butter. They are commonly boiled or pan-fried, resulting in a deliciously crispy exterior while maintaining a soft, flavorful filling.
By pairing these two traditional ingredients with fried cabbage, this recipe brings out the best of Eastern European flavors in a single, easy-to-make dish. The addition of fried cabbage enhances the meal with a subtle sweetness and a tender texture, perfectly complementing the savory kielbasa and crispy pierogies.
Why This Recipe Works
There are several reasons why this dish has become a favorite for many home cooks:
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Quick and Easy Preparation
This recipe requires minimal effort, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a hearty meal on the table in about 30 minutes. The best part? No need to boil the pierogies separately just toss them in the skillet straight from the freezer! -
One-Pan Convenience
Nobody enjoys cleaning a sink full of dishes after cooking. With this one-pan meal, cleanup is a breeze. Everything cooks together in the same skillet, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully while keeping dishwashing to a minimum. -
Affordable and Accessible Ingredients
Most of the ingredients in this recipe are readily available at local grocery stores. Kielbasa and frozen pierogies can often be found in the refrigerated or frozen sections, while coleslaw mix provides an easy shortcut for chopping cabbage and carrots. -
Perfect Balance of Flavors
This dish is a fantastic combination of smoky, savory, buttery, and slightly sweet flavors. The richness of the kielbasa pairs beautifully with the tender pierogies, while the fried cabbage adds a touch of sweetness that rounds out the dish. -
Customizable to Your Taste
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily switch up the ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. For example, you can use turkey kielbasa for a lighter option, swap out the pierogies for potatoes, or add extra vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms for more flavor and nutrition.
Tips for the Best Kielbasa, Pierogies & Fried Cabbage
To make the most of this recipe, keep these helpful tips in mind:
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Choose High-Quality Kielbasa: The flavor of the kielbasa plays a big role in this dish. Opt for a good-quality, smoked kielbasa for the best taste. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider using a Polish-style sausage with extra seasoning.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: To achieve crispy pierogies and nicely browned kielbasa, avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
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Use Butter and Oil for Flavor: A combination of butter and olive oil enhances the taste and helps achieve a golden, crispy texture for both the pierogies and kielbasa.
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Add Seasonings to Taste: While the garlic powder, salt, and pepper in the recipe provide a solid base of flavor, you can experiment with additional seasonings such as paprika, smoked salt, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra depth.
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Pair It with Sour Cream: Many people enjoy their pierogies with a side of sour cream. The creamy tanginess balances out the smoky and buttery flavors of the dish beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is satisfying on its own, but you can elevate your meal with a few simple side dishes or garnishes:
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream adds a cool, tangy contrast to the warm, savory ingredients.
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or dill on top for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any remaining buttery goodness from the pan.
- Pickles or Sauerkraut: The acidity of pickled vegetables pairs well with the rich flavors of kielbasa and pierogies.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You may need to add a little butter or oil to prevent sticking. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can also freeze leftovers for up to one month. To reheat from frozen, allow the dish to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming it in a skillet.
Conclusion:
Kielbasa, pierogies, and fried cabbage come together in this easy, one-pan meal to create a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. Rooted in Eastern European tradition, this recipe offers a delicious blend of smoky, buttery, and savory flavors that make it a standout option for quick and hearty dinners.
With minimal prep, simple ingredients, and a short cooking time, this meal is perfect for those who want a homemade, flavorful dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving some classic comfort food, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.