There’s something instantly comforting about a bowl of Dill Pierogi Soup — pillowy pierogi, a savory broth brightened with fresh dill, and a swirl of creamy tang that warms you from the inside out. This cozy, approachable recipe is perfect for beginner cooks looking to turn pantry staples and a bag of frozen pierogi into a memorable weeknight meal full of texture and fresh, herbal flavor.
Why You’ll Love ThisDill Pierogi Soup Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare — weeknight-friendly and family-approved.
- Uses simple, wholesome ingredients you may already have on hand.
- Comforting and versatile — perfect for cold nights or casual gatherings.
A Little Background
Dill Pierogi Soup riffs on Eastern European comforting flavors by combining classic potato-and-cheese pierogi with a gently seasoned broth. Pierogi are traditionally served pan-fried or boiled, but turning them into a soup adds a silky broth and lets the dumplings absorb herbs and aromas. This style of soup is ideal in cooler months and makes a hearty, nostalgic meal that nods to old-world traditions while staying simple enough for modern cooks.
Key Ingredients for perfect Dill Pierogi Soup
- Frozen pierogi: potato-and-cheese dumplings—use straight from frozen or thawed.
- Bacon or smoked pork: renders flavorful fat for sautéing and a salty crunch as garnish.
- Yellow onion: provides a sweet, savory base when sautéed until soft.
- Chicken or vegetable broth: creates the savory, comforting soup base.
- Fresh dill & sour cream: dill adds brightness; sour cream lends creaminess and tang.
Step-by-Step Instructions to make Dill Pierogi Soup
- Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon, drain on paper towels, and reserve most of the bacon fat in the pot.
- Add chopped onion to the bacon fat and sauté until translucent and lightly golden. Stir in minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken or vegetable broth and add diced potatoes if using; bring to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender.
- Add the frozen pierogi to the simmering broth and cook according to package time until heated through and tender, gently stirring so they don’t stick together.
- Lower the heat and stir in sour cream to add creaminess, then fold in chopped fresh dill and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve bowls topped with crumbled bacon and extra dill for garnish.
Pro Tips & Variations
- Use the reserved bacon fat to sauté onions for extra depth; substitute butter for a milder flavor if you prefer.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid breaking the pierogi.
- For a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and use olive oil plus smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness; add sautéed mushrooms or kielbasa for extra heartiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Dill Pierogi Soup with crusty rye or sourdough bread, a simple green salad, and pickled cucumbers or red beets for a classic Eastern European touch. A cold pilsner or a crisp white wine pairs nicely, and this soup makes a cozy centerpiece for casual dinners or family-style meals.