Pierogi and Turkey Sausage Skillet is a fast, hearty, and family-friendly meal that brings together Eastern European comfort and everyday convenience. This skillet recipe combines soft, pillowy pierogi with smoky turkey sausage, caramelized onions, fresh spinach, and colorful bell peppers, all seared in one pan for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. Whether you use frozen pierogi or homemade, this dinner comes together in under 30 minutes and is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying but easy. It’s a crowd-pleaser that hits every mark: savory, comforting, and full of textures and colors.
Ingredients
- 1 (16 oz) package frozen potato and cheese pierogi (or your favorite variety)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 pound turkey sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: sour cream or spicy mustard, for serving
Preparation
Step 1: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and butter. Once melted, add the sliced turkey sausage and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: In the same skillet, add sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook for 5–7 minutes until soft and caramelized. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 3: Add fresh spinach to the skillet and sauté for 1–2 minutes until wilted.
Step 4: While vegetables cook, bring a pot of water to a boil and cook frozen pierogi according to package instructions (typically 4–5 minutes). Drain well.
Step 5: Add the drained pierogi to the skillet with vegetables and spinach. Return turkey sausage to the pan. Gently toss everything together and cook for another 3–4 minutes until everything is warmed through and slightly crisped.
Step 6: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with a side of sour cream or mustard if desired.
Variation
- Cheese Addition: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or smoked gouda before the final stir for a cheesy finish.
- Protein Swap: Use kielbasa, smoked sausage, or chicken sausage in place of turkey.
- Veggies: Add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for more veggies.
- Spicy Version: Add crushed red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeño for heat.
- Sweet Note: Caramelize the onions longer for a sweeter profile.
Cooking Note
If you prefer crispy pierogi, pan-fry them in a bit of butter after boiling and draining before adding to the skillet. Be gentle when stirring to keep pierogi intact. A nonstick skillet works best to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or creamy horseradish sauce.
- Pair with a light side salad or steamed green beans.
- Add warm sauerkraut on the side for a tangy contrast.
- Perfect with a chilled lager or apple cider.
Tips
- For faster prep, slice the veggies and sausage ahead of time.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet, use a large pan or work in batches.
- Double the recipe for meal prep, it reheats well.
- Use leftover roasted vegetables in place of fresh.
- Try different pierogi fillings (spinach, mushroom, meat) for variety.
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per serving, makes 4 servings)
Calories: 420
Protein: 22g
Sodium: 760mg
FAQs
Can I use homemade pierogi?
- Yes, cook them fully before adding to the skillet, just like frozen ones.
Can I freeze leftovers?
- Yes. Let cool completely, then freeze in portions. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
What kind of turkey sausage should I use?
- Smoked turkey sausage or precooked turkey kielbasa works best for this recipe.
Is this recipe spicy?
- Not at all! But you can easily add heat with red pepper flakes or spicy sausage.
Can I make it vegetarian?
- Yes, skip the sausage and add more veggies or a plant-based sausage alternative.
Conclusion
Pierogi and Turkey Sausage Skillet is an effortless one-pan dinner that brings classic comfort food to the table with a modern twist. With tender pierogi, browned sausage, sautéed vegetables, and fresh spinach, this dish checks every box for flavor, texture, and simplicity. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll turn to again and again when you need something delicious without the fuss. With endless variations and quick prep, it’s a winner for both weeknights and casual gatherings.