Name: Comforting Pierogi Dill Soup for Quick Cozy Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil (Or olive/canola oil); 11 ounces Kielbasa (Sliced; Andouille or bacon can substitute); 1 Yellow Onion (Diced; shallots as alternative); 2 Carrots (Peeled and cut into half-moons; other veggies can be swapped); 1 clove Garlic (Minced; avoid garlic powder); 1 teaspoon Sweet Paprika (Or smoked paprika for extra flavor); 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin (Optional for milder flavor); 5 cups Chicken Broth (Homemade or store-bought options work well); 1/4 head Savoy Cabbage (Cored and chopped; green cabbage or kale as substitutes); 3 tablespoons Cheese Spread (At room temperature; brands like The Laughing Cow are ideal); 3 tablespoons Fresh Dill (Chopped; do not use dried dill); Freshly Ground Black Pepper (Season to taste); 12 Pierogi (Cheese and potato filling; various fillings can be used)

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When the temperature drops, nothing warms the soul quite like a steaming bowl of Pierogi Dill Soup. This comforting dish is not only a hearty blend of pillowy pierogi and smoky kielbasa, but it also comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those busy evenings. As a home chef, I’ve always cherished meals that satisfy while being simple—this one-pot wonder is both kid-friendly and a crowd-pleaser! The fresh dill provides a delightful zing, elevating the creamy texture to new heights. Are you curious about how to bring this cozy comfort to your kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Pierogi Dill Soup vsbite

Why is this soup a must-try?

Simplicity: With just one pot and 30 minutes, this pierogi dill soup is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave comfort without the hassle.

Versatility: Customize it easily by swapping ingredients like kielbasa for chicken or experimenting with different pierogi fillings for a delightful twist.

Rich, Creamy Texture: Each spoonful offers a soothing blend of creamy cheese and savory broth, making even the pickiest eaters fall in love—and perfect as a cozy meal on chilly nights.

Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is not just kid-friendly, but its hearty flavors will impress anyone at the dinner table; pair it with crusty bread—read more about it here.

Storing Made Easy: Make a batch ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and simply reheat for an effortless lunch or dinner that satisfies like homemade comfort food!

Pierogi Dill Soup Ingredients

• Get ready to make a cozy classic!

For the Soup Base

Vegetable Oil – Ideal for browning kielbasa and enhancing flavor; swap with olive or canola oil if needed.
Kielbasa (11 ounces, sliced) – Brings a smoky, savory essence; Andouille sausage or bacon work as tasty substitutes.
Yellow Onion (1, diced) – Adds depth to the flavor; shallots can serve as a fine alternative.
Carrots (2, peeled and cut into half-moons) – Introduces sweetness and vibrant color; feel free to swap with your favorite veggies.
Garlic (1 clove, minced) – Essential for depth; avoid garlic powder for the best taste.
Sweet Paprika (1 tsp) – Provides warmth and a pop of color; consider using smoked paprika for extra flair.
Ground Cumin (1 tsp) – Adds earthy notes; you can omit for a milder flavor.
Chicken Broth (5 cups) – The soul of the dish, enriching the soup; both homemade and store-bought options are excellent.
Savoy Cabbage (¼ head, cored and chopped) – Contributes texture; swap with green cabbage or kale if you prefer.

For Creaminess and Flavor

Cheese Spread (3 tbsp, at room temperature) – Gives a creamy finish; brands like The Laughing Cow are ideal, or use cream cheese, sour cream, or heavy cream instead.
Fresh Dill (3 tbsp, chopped) – Adds a refreshing flavor; do not replace with dried dill; fresh parsley can substitute nicely.
Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Season to taste for that perfect finish.

For the Main Ingredient

Pierogi (12, cheese and potato filling) – The star component of this dish; feel free to use various fillings and store-bought or homemade options based on your preference.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pierogi Dill Soup

Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Start by preparing your ingredients for the Pierogi Dill Soup. Slice the kielbasa into bite-sized pieces, dice the onion, peel and cut the carrots into half-moons, and mince the garlic. Core the savoy cabbage and chop it into bite-sized pieces. Finally, chop the dill, setting all these ingredients aside for easy access during cooking.

Step 2: Brown Kielbasa
In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the sliced kielbasa and cook for about 5 minutes, just until it turns a rich golden brown and releases a smoky aroma. Remove the kielbasa from the pot and set it aside on a plate while you keep the flavorful drippings in the pot.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pot containing the drippings, add another splash of oil if necessary, then toss in the minced garlic, diced onion, and carrot half-moons. Sauté these fragrant vegetables for 3 minutes until they begin to soften and the onion turns translucent. Stir frequently to prevent burning and to enhance the flavors that will enrich your soup.

Step 4: Add Spices and Broth
Now, sprinkle in the paprika and cumin, stirring to toast the spices lightly for about 30 seconds. Next, pour in 5 cups of chicken broth, and increase the heat to high to bring the mixture to a rolling boil. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor base for your comforting Pierogi Dill Soup.

Step 5: Add Cabbage
Once the broth is boiling, carefully stir in the chopped savoy cabbage. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the cabbage to soften and meld with the other flavors, creating a hearty and flavorful soup base.

Step 6: Incorporate Cheese and Pierogi
After simmering, take off the lid and stir in the room-temperature cheese spread. Mix well until fully melted and integrated into the soup. Then, add in the pierogi gently, bringing the heat back up. Boil the soup until the pierogi float to the top, which takes about 3-5 minutes if fresh, or 8 minutes for frozen ones.

Step 7: Final Touches
Once the pierogi are floating, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the browned kielbasa, freshly chopped dill, and season generously with freshly ground black pepper. Give everything a final stir to combine, and your warm and creamy Pierogi Dill Soup is ready to be served!

How to Store and Freeze Pierogi Dill Soup

Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions for up to 2 months. Place it in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth to restore creaminess if needed.

Ingredient Separation: If you’ve made a large batch, consider freezing the pierogi separately to maintain their texture; combine them only when reheating for the freshest taste in your Pierogi Dill Soup.

Pierogi Dill Soup Variations

Feel free to make this comforting pierogi dill soup your own with these delightful twists and substitutions!

Vegetarian Delight: Replace kielbasa with mushrooms, adding hearty texture and umami flavor. This swap creates a lighter version that everyone will enjoy.
Different Fillings: Experiment with pierogi filled with sauerkraut, mushroom, or spinach for a flavorful twist. Each filling brings its unique quality, making every bowl a surprise!
Creamy Without Dairy: Eliminate cheese spread and replace it with cashew cream for a vegan option that maintains that luxurious texture. Your soup will be just as rich but without dairy!
Elevate with Greens: Toss in some spinach or kale along with the cabbage for an extra boost of nutrition and vibrant color. It’s an easy way to add more greens to your meal!
Hearty and Filling: Add more vegetables like potatoes or corn for a heartier soup. These additions will create a thicker, more satisfying dish.
Spice It Up: If you enjoy a kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to heat things up. It’s a fun way to awaken your taste buds!
Flavored Broth: Use homemade vegetable or chicken broth instead of store-bought for a deeper, more flavorful experience. Accent the dish further by trying out broth recipes—like in Potato Soup Comfort—to elevate your dish!

With these variations, your pierogi dill soup will never get boring, and you’ll keep your family asking for seconds!

Expert Tips for Pierogi Dill Soup

Ingredient Quality: Use fresh ingredients wherever possible, especially the dill and vegetables, for a vibrant flavor in your Pierogi Dill Soup.
Avoid Overcooking: Be careful not to overcook the pierogi; they should float gently and be tender, but not mushy, for the best texture.
Broth Choice: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of your soup. This way, you can season to your taste without overpowering the dish.
Make It Ahead: If preparing ahead, keep the pierogi separate until serving to avoid a soggy texture. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess.
Fun Variations: Embrace creativity! Swap fillings for the pierogi based on your family’s favorites—spinach and cheese or sauerkraut could offer a delightful surprise.

What to Serve With Pierogi Dill Soup

When serving this creamy delight, consider how to beautifully enhance the experience of every comforting bite.

Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping, absorbing the creamy broth, and adding delightful texture.
Side Salad: A refreshing, lightly dressed garden salad complements the richness of the soup, adding a burst of color and freshness.
Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles provide a delightful contrast to the creamy flavors while adding crunch and acidity to the meal.
Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top can elevate every spoonful, offering a tangy richness that pairs beautifully with the dill.
Steamed Green Beans: These tender green beans add a fresh crunch that balances the soup’s comforting texture.
Apple Crisp: To round off the meal, a warm apple crisp brings sweetness and warmth, creating a cozy ending to your dining experience.
Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea with hints of chamomile or mint can enhance the warm, comforting vibes of your dinner.

Make Ahead Options

These nourishing Pierogi Dill Soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop your vegetables, slice the kielbasa, and even prepare the cheese spread up to 24 hours in advance, keeping everything prepped and ready to go. Storing the veggies and kielbasa in airtight containers will help maintain their freshness in the refrigerator. If you prefer, you can also cook the soup base (up to boiling point) up to 3 days ahead and just add the pierogi and fresh dill when you’re ready to eat. Simply reheat the base over low heat, stir in the pierogi until they float, and enjoy hearty, homemade comfort food with minimal effort!

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Pierogi Dill Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of pierogi works best for this soup?
Absolutely! For this Pierogi Dill Soup, I recommend using cheese and potato-filled pierogi for the traditional flavor. However, you can also experiment with fillings like sauerkraut or mushroom for a delightful twist. Just remember, the key is to use fresh or quality frozen pierogi to ensure a satisfying texture.

How should I store leftover pierogi dill soup?
You can store your homemade Pierogi Dill Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the soup cools to room temperature before sealing it to prevent moisture buildup. When ready to enjoy, just reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain the creamy texture.

Can I freeze this soup for later?
Certainly! You can freeze your Pierogi Dill Soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. I suggest portioning out the soup to make reheating easier. Be sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop over low heat while stirring occasionally. If the soup appears thick, just add a splash of broth to restore that creamy goodness.

What can I do if my soup is too thick?
Very! If you find that your Pierogi Dill Soup has thickened too much after storage or reheating, don’t worry! Simply add some warm chicken broth or water to thin it out to your desired consistency. Stir well and heat gently on the stovetop until it reaches the appropriate temperature.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This soup is versatile. For a vegetarian option, swap the kielbasa for mushrooms and use vegetable broth. Additionally, check that your pierogi are free of any allergens if serving guests or family with dietary restrictions. If someone is lactose intolerant, consider using dairy-free cheese or sour cream alternatives to maintain a creamy texture.