Creamy Pierogi Turkey Sausage: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Creamy Pierogi Turkey Sausage is a dish that will redefine your weeknight dinner routine! Imagine tender, pillowy pierogi, savory turkey sausage, and a luscious cream sauce all coming together in a symphony of flavors. Are you ready to ditch the same old meals and embark on a culinary adventure that’s both comforting and surprisingly easy?

Pierogi, those delightful dumplings of Eastern European origin, have a rich history, often associated with family gatherings and celebrations. Passed down through generations, these little pockets of goodness represent warmth, tradition, and the simple pleasure of homemade food. While traditionally filled with potatoes and cheese, this recipe takes a modern twist, incorporating lean turkey sausage for a healthier and equally delicious protein boost.

People adore this Creamy Pierogi Turkey Sausage recipe for several reasons. First, the creamy sauce is undeniably addictive, coating each pierogi and slice of sausage in a velvety embrace. Second, the combination of textures – the soft pierogi, the slightly crisp sausage, and the smooth sauce – creates a delightful sensory experience. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, it’s incredibly convenient! This one-pan wonder comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave a satisfying and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready to experience a new family favorite!

this RECIPE

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Italian turkey sausage, casings removed
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can chicken broth
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (16 ounce) package frozen pierogies (cheddar or potato and onion), thawed
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparing the Sausage and Vegetable Base

Okay, let’s get started! First, we need to create a flavorful base for our creamy pierogi masterpiece. This involves browning the sausage and softening the vegetables. Trust me, this step is crucial for building depth of flavor.

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat over medium heat. Add the Italian turkey sausage (casings removed, remember!). Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Make sure to crumble it well so you don’t have big chunks. Nobody wants a sausage surprise!
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Don’t drain the grease! We want that flavorful fat to cook our veggies. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Creating the Creamy Sauce

Now comes the magic! We’re going to build a luscious, creamy sauce that will coat every single pierogi. This is where the “creamy” in “Creamy Pierogi Turkey Sausage” really shines.

3. Make a Roux: Melt the butter in the skillet with the onions and garlic. Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes. This creates a roux, which will thicken our sauce. Make sure to cook out the raw flour taste, but don’t let it brown too much.
4. Whisk in the Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. This prevents lumps from forming. Then, stir in the condensed cream of mushroom soup. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the Seasonings: Stir in the sour cream, milk, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!

Combining the Ingredients and Baking

We’re almost there! Now it’s time to bring everything together and bake our creamy pierogi creation. This is the final stretch, and the aroma will be driving you crazy!

6. Add the Sausage and Pierogies: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Add the thawed pierogies. Gently stir to coat everything evenly with the creamy sauce. Make sure the pierogies are well distributed throughout the mixture.
7. Transfer to a Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. This will ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
8. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. This will create a golden, bubbly crust that’s irresistible.
9. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the pierogies are heated through. Keep an eye on it to prevent the cheese from burning.
10. Let it Rest: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to settle.

Serving and Garnishing

The final touch! A little garnish can elevate this dish from simple to stunning. Plus, fresh parsley adds a pop of freshness that complements the richness of the sauce.

11. Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of paprika for extra visual appeal.
12. Serve: Serve hot and enjoy! This dish is perfect as a main course for a weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.

Tips and Variations

Want to customize this recipe? Here are a few ideas:

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the turkey sausage with plant-based sausage crumbles or sautéed mushrooms.
• Different Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
• Add Vegetables: Add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, to the skillet along with the onion and garlic.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Herbs: Use fresh herbs, such as rosemary or oregano, instead of dried thyme.
• Pierogi Variety: Try different flavors of pierogies, such as sauerkraut, farmer’s cheese, or even sweet cheese.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 450-550 per serving
• Fat: 25-35 grams
• Protein: 20-30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Pierogi Turkey Sausage! I hope you love it as much as I do. It’s a comforting, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Conclusion:

This Creamy Pierogi Turkey Sausage recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! Seriously, the combination of tender pierogi, savory turkey sausage, and that luscious, creamy sauce is something you absolutely have to experience. It’s comfort food elevated, quick enough for a busy evening, and impressive enough to serve to guests. I truly believe this will become a staple in your recipe rotation.

But why is it a must-try? Beyond the incredible taste, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to your preferences and what you have on hand. Not a fan of turkey sausage? Italian sausage or even chorizo would work beautifully. Want to add more veggies? Sauté some bell peppers, onions, or spinach before adding the sausage. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

For a complete meal, I love serving this Creamy Pierogi Turkey Sausage with a simple side salad. The freshness of the salad cuts through the richness of the sauce perfectly. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and flavor.

Here are a few more ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

* Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
* Cheesy Goodness: Stir in a handful of shredded Parmesan or mozzarella cheese at the end for an extra cheesy delight.
* Vegetarian Option: Substitute the turkey sausage with plant-based sausage or add more vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.
* One-Pan Wonder: Bake the entire dish in a casserole dish for a crispy, golden-brown top.
* Creamy Tomato Pierogi Turkey Sausage: Add a can of diced tomatoes to the sauce for a tangy twist.

I’ve made this recipe countless times, and each time I tweak it a little based on what I’m craving. That’s the beauty of it – it’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity!

Now, it’s your turn!

I’m so excited for you to try this Creamy Pierogi Turkey Sausage recipe. I know you’ll love it as much as I do. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and make it your own.

Once you’ve given it a whirl, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any substitutions? What did you serve it with? What did your family think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! Your feedback helps me and other readers discover new and exciting ways to enjoy this delicious dish.

I truly believe that cooking should be fun and rewarding, and this recipe embodies that perfectly. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to create a meal that will impress your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to hear all about your Creamy Pierogi Turkey Sausage adventures!