If you adore the comforting flavors of traditional pierogi but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, you’ll fall in love with this Fast and Easy Lazy Pierogi Recipe. By cleverly using pillowy potato gnocchi instead of handmade dough and filling, this fuss-free dish brings all the charm of classic Polish dumplings to your table in mere minutes. The combination of buttery onions, creamy cottage cheese, and a dollop of tangy sour cream will have everyone reaching for seconds—without any need for rolling pins or intricate folding.

Fast and Easy Lazy Pierogi Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for a handful of humble ingredients, yet each one plays a starring role in building rich flavor and texture. Together, they capture the essence of pierogi with a fraction of the effort.

Potato gnocchi (1 pound): The secret shortcut that perfectly mimics traditional pierogi dough, ready in minutes and irresistibly tender.
Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Lends a silky richness to the sautéed onions and helps cloak the gnocchi in delicious flavor.
Large onion, finely chopped (1): Sautéed just right for sweet, golden flavor that’s classic in any Polish pierogi dish.
Small curd cottage cheese (1 cup): Brings the creamy, gently tangy quality of authentic pierogi filling—farmer’s cheese or ricotta can step in for variety.
Salt (½ teaspoon): A key seasoning that lifts and balances all the flavors.
Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds just enough aromatic warmth to round out each bite.
Sour cream (½ cup): A finishing touch for tang and creaminess—don’t be shy!
Fresh chives, chopped (2 tablespoons, optional): A little sprinkle of green for flavor and color, making each serving bright and inviting.

How to Make Fast and Easy Lazy Pierogi Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rollicking boil—giving your gnocchi that soft-and-chewy texture is the first step to perfecting this Fast and Easy Lazy Pierogi Recipe. Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions; it usually just takes a couple of minutes, and you’ll know they’re ready when they bob merrily to the top. Drain them well and set aside while you begin the next stage.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions in Butter

While the gnocchi cooks, set a large skillet over medium heat and melt the unsalted butter until fragrant and just beginning to foam. Toss in your finely chopped onion and let it sizzle, stirring occasionally, until it turns soft and golden. The aroma will be deliciously tempting—this is where the magic begins, building the base of your pierogi-inspired flavor.

Step 3: Combine with Cheese and Seasonings

Lower the heat and gently add your drained gnocchi to the buttery onions. Next, spoon in the cottage cheese, followed by the salt and pepper. With a careful hand, stir everything together so the gnocchi get coated in cheesy, oniony goodness. Let it all warm through for a couple of minutes, but avoid vigorous stirring so you don’t break up those soft dumplings.

Step 4: Finish and Serve Fast and Easy Lazy Pierogi Recipe

Spoon the hot, creamy mixture onto plates or into bowls, then give each serving a luxurious dollop of sour cream and a scattering of chives if you like. This final touch brightens up the dish and makes it look as inviting as it tastes—proof that comfort food doesn’t have to take all day.

How to Serve Fast and Easy Lazy Pierogi Recipe

Garnishes

For that authentic touch, top your Fast and Easy Lazy Pierogi Recipe with a generous swirl of sour cream and a shower of freshly chopped chives. You can also add crispy bacon bits for extra indulgence, or even a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. A touch of parsley or dill brings a fresh, herbal note that pairs beautifully with the rich flavors.

Side Dishes

While this dish is downright satisfying on its own, it also plays nicely alongside simple sides like a fresh cucumber salad, garlicky sautéed greens, or classic Polish dill pickles. For a heartier meal, serve with roasted vegetables or a warm borscht on a chilly evening.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t hesitate to serve your Fast and Easy Lazy Pierogi Recipe in small bowls for a fun appetizer at gatherings, or spoon it into individual ramekins for a cozy, dinner party-ready presentation. You can even layer it in a casserole dish, top with extra cheese, and pop under the broiler for a few moments for a bubbly, golden finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra portions, simply transfer the cooled Fast and Easy Lazy Pierogi Recipe to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to three days and actually tastes even more flavorful the next day as the ingredients meld together.

Freezing

This recipe is surprisingly freezer-friendly! Spoon cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, being sure to squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze them for up to two months—perfect for meal prepping or a quick comfort meal down the line.

Reheating

To enjoy leftovers, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or extra sour cream if needed to keep things creamy. You can also microwave individual servings—just cover them to retain moisture and heat in short increments, stirring between bursts until hot throughout.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese instead of cottage cheese?

Absolutely! Farmer’s cheese is a traditional choice, but ricotta works beautifully for an even creamier version. Just remember to season to taste, as different cheeses have their own flavor notes.

What type Main Course, Side Dish

Standard potato gnocchi, whether from the refrigerated or shelf-stable section, works perfectly to mimic that classic pierogi dough. If you find mini or “gnocchetti,” they offer bite-size appeal, too!

Is this Fast and Easy Lazy Pierogi Recipe kid-friendly?

Yes—kids love the pillowy gnocchi, mild cheese filling, and the cozy, buttery flavors. You can dial back the black pepper if your little ones are sensitive to spice.

Can I add extra ingredients to customize the dish?

Of course! This recipe is a great canvas. Stir in cooked spinach, diced ham, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. A few crispy bacon bits sprinkled on top also make it extra special.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

You can swap in vegan butter, dairy-free sour cream, and a plant-based ricotta or cottage cheese substitute. Check the labels on your gnocchi, as some versions contain eggs—many grocery stores now carry egg-free varieties.

Final Thoughts

If you crave homey Polish flavors without any fuss, this Fast and Easy Lazy Pierogi Recipe is the answer to your comfort-food dreams. It’s just the thing for busy weeknights, laid-back family meals, or anytime you need something warm and satisfying with minimal prep. Try it once, and you’ll keep coming back for this crowd-pleaser again and again!

Fast and Easy Lazy Pierogi Recipe

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4.8 from 7 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Fast and Easy Lazy Pierogi Recipe is a quick twist on the traditional Polish dumplings, using potato gnocchi for a shortcut to deliciousness. Creamy and flavorful, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving comfort food without the fuss.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

1 pound potato gnocchi
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 cup small curd cottage cheese
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup sour cream

Garnish:

2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (optional)

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Instructions

Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook gnocchi according to package directions; drain and set aside.
Sauté Onions: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 5–6 minutes until soft and golden.
Combine Ingredients: Reduce heat to low, add cooked gnocchi, cottage cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until warmed through.
Serve: Serve topped with sour cream and sprinkle with chives if desired.

Notes

This shortcut version uses gnocchi to mimic pierogi dough, making it ready in minutes.
You can swap cottage cheese for farmer’s cheese or ricotta for a creamier texture.
For a richer dish, add crispy bacon bits on top.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course, Side Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Polish-American