Easy Crispy Pierogies with Sausage and Broccoli Skillet Recipe

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Introduction

When dinner time rolls around and you’re juggling a thousand things, the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen. Enter the Crispy Pierogies with Sausage and Broccoli Skillet—the perfect one-pan wonder that delivers big on flavor and ease. This hearty, satisfying dish is a life-saver for busy weeknights, offering the kind of crispy, savory goodness that makes your taste buds do a little happy dance.

Packed with pillowy pierogies, golden-browned sausage, and vibrant green broccoli, this dish is more than just dinner—it’s comfort food, efficiency, and flavor all rolled into one sizzling skillet. And the best part? You can have it ready in under 30 minutes, with almost no cleanup. That’s what we call a win.

What is This Recipe?

The Crispy Pierogies with Sausage and Broccoli Skillet is a one-pan meal that combines frozen pierogies (pan-fried to a delicious crisp), sliced sausage (think smoky kielbasa or your favorite style), and tender broccoli florets. It’s seasoned with everyday pantry staples and sautéed until golden and bubbling with flavor.

The pierogies soak up the meaty goodness of the sausage and the vibrant freshness of the broccoli, making it a balanced, satisfying dish you can whip up any day of the week. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is both practical and indulgent.


Essential Ingredients

  • Frozen pierogies – the star of the show; go for potato & cheese-filled for classic comfort
  • Smoked sausage or kielbasa – adds a bold, meaty punch
  • Fresh broccoli florets – balance out the dish with fiber, color, and nutrition
  • Olive oil or butter – to pan-fry the pierogies until they’re golden and crispy
  • Garlic powder & onion powder – for depth of flavor
  • Salt & black pepper – to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional) – for a touch of heat
  • Grated cheese (optional) – sprinkle on top for extra richness

Alternative Ingredients

Don’t have everything on hand? No problem. This dish is super flexible.

  • Use turkey sausage or veggie sausage for a leaner or plant-based version
  • Try cauliflower or zucchini instead of broccoli for variation
  • Use ghee or avocado oil for cooking instead of olive oil
  • Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies and bulk
  • Use whole wheat or gluten-free pierogies for dietary preferences

Prep Time, Cook Time, and Serving Info

Prep TimeCook TimeTotal TimeServingsYield
10 mins20 mins30 mins41 skillet (4 servings)

Key Features

  • One-skillet meal
  • Family-friendly
  • Perfect weeknight dinner
  • Budget-friendly ingredients
  • Ready in under 30 minutes
  • Freezer-to-table convenience
  • Minimal cleanup

Nutrition Facts

NutrientAmount (per serving)
Calories450-500 kcal
Protein18-22g
Carbohydrates40-45g
Fat25-28g
Fiber5g
Sodium850mg (varies by sausage)

Directions: Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crispy Pierogies with Sausage and Broccoli Skillet

Cooking the Crispy Pierogies with Sausage and Broccoli Skillet isn’t just easy—it’s a joy. This one-skillet wonder delivers golden, pan-fried pierogies paired with juicy sausage and perfectly tender broccoli. Here’s how to bring it all together from freezer to fork, effortlessly.


Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients

First things first—gather all your ingredients. This simple recipe doesn’t require much, but it’s a good idea to have everything ready to go:

  • Frozen pierogies (potato and cheese is a classic choice)
  • Sausage (kielbasa, smoked, or your preferred variety)
  • Fresh broccoli florets
  • Olive oil or butter
  • Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper
  • Optional add-ins: shredded cheese, red pepper flakes, or fresh herbs

No need to defrost the pierogies—using them straight from the freezer works best for that perfect crispy texture.


While this step isn’t absolutely necessary, it ensures your broccoli cooks evenly and keeps its beautiful green color. Fill a pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt, then toss in the broccoli florets. Let them boil for about 2 to 3 minutes, just until they’re bright green and starting to get tender. Drain and set them aside.

Pro tip: If you skip this step and cook the broccoli raw in the skillet, it might not cook all the way through or could become too charred.


Step 3: Slice and Brown the Sausage

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While it’s heating, slice your sausage into ¼ to ½-inch rounds—not too thick, so they cook evenly, and not too thin, so they don’t dry out.

Once the oil is hot and shimmering, place the sausage slices in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for about 3 to 4 minutes until they start to brown and caramelize. Flip them over and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes. Once they’re golden and cooked through, transfer them to a plate and set aside.


Step 4: Crisp the Pierogies

In the same skillet (keep all that tasty sausage flavor), add another tablespoon of oil or butter. Place the frozen pierogies in a single layer—do not overcrowd them. If you’re cooking a larger batch, work in batches to get the best crispy edges.

Cook the pierogies on medium heat for about 4 to 5 minutes on the first side. Don’t move them too early—let them develop that nice golden crust. Flip them carefully and cook the second side for another 3 to 4 minutes until both sides are beautifully browned.

Some brands of pierogies may puff up slightly—that’s totally fine and a good sign that they’re cooking through.


Step 5: Combine Everything in the Skillet

Once your pierogies are crisped and glorious, it’s time to bring it all together. Add the browned sausage and parboiled broccoli back into the skillet with the pierogies. Toss gently to combine, being careful not to tear the pierogies.

Sprinkle the mix with ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, salt and pepper to taste. If you’re into spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Sauté everything together for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring gently, so the flavors meld without overcooking the broccoli or breaking the pierogies.


Step 6: Optional Cheesy Finish

Want to take things over the top? Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella over the skillet, then cover it with a lid for about 1 minute, just until the cheese melts. This gives the dish that cozy, cheesy finish without turning it into a heavy casserole.

Step 7: Serve It Hot and Fresh

Transfer everything to a large serving bowl or serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic, homey feel. This dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh, with maybe a side of sour cream or mustard for dipping.

That’s it—your Crispy Pierogies with Sausage and Broccoli Skillet is ready to rock your dinner table.


Pro Tips for a Perfect Skillet Dinner

When making your Crispy Pierogies with Sausage and Broccoli Skillet, a few expert tweaks can take it from good to utterly unforgettable. These practical, tried-and-tested tips ensure every element of the dish shines—crispy, savory, and perfectly balanced.

1. Don’t Rush the Crisping
Patience pays off here. One of the biggest mistakes is flipping pierogies too soon. Give them at least 4–5 minutes per side to achieve that irresistible golden crust. If you move them too early, they might stick or tear.

2. Use a Cast Iron or Nonstick Skillet
Both work beautifully, but if you want maximum crisp and flavor, a well-seasoned cast iron skillet is unbeatable. It distributes heat evenly and delivers that golden, slightly caramelized finish on the pierogies and sausage.

3. Parboil the Broccoli
This step saves you from ending up with either undercooked or burnt broccoli. A quick 2-minute blanch helps the florets stay bright green, tender, and vibrant when added back to the skillet.

4. Don’t Skimp on Oil or Butter
Crispy pierogies need fat. Olive oil gives a rich, savory taste, while butter adds a creamy finish. For extra flavor, try a mix of both.

5. Add Flavor Layers
Basic seasoning goes a long way. Garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of red pepper flakes elevate the dish without needing fancy ingredients. Want extra depth? Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon at the end.

6. Make it Yours
Add shredded cheese, caramelized onions, or a spoonful of sour cream on top. Customizing your Crispy Pierogies with Sausage and Broccoli Skillet lets you turn this weeknight recipe into a personal favorite.

These pro tips guarantee you get crispy edges, juicy sausage, and flavorful veggies—every single time.


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Crispy Pierogies with Sausage and Broccoli Skillet is everything a great weeknight dinner should be—easy, fast, and incredibly satisfying. It’s a delicious way to use frozen pierogies in a new and exciting way, and it’s a real crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.

You’ll love how customizable it is, how it only dirties one pan, and how it combines crispy textures with rich, savory flavors. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping or using up what’s in your fridge. It’s not just a recipe—it’s a reliable dinner solution.


What Makes This Recipe Unique?

This isn’t your typical pierogi recipe boiled and buttered. This skillet version adds layers of flavor and texture by crisping the pierogies, caramelizing the sausage, and lightly charring the broccoli. It creates a complete, comforting, and satisfying meal—all from store-bought ingredients, cooked creatively in one pan.

What really sets this recipe apart is the simplicity of the method with results that taste gourmet. It’s a game-changing dinner hack that turns humble ingredients into a crave-worthy dish.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time slightly since fresh pierogies cook faster.

What sausage works best in this dish?
Smoked kielbasa is perfect, but Italian sausage, turkey sausage, or even plant-based versions work great.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Just skip the sausage and add extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini for bulk and flavor.

Do I need to boil pierogies before pan-frying?
Nope! Frozen pierogies can go straight into the pan. Just cook them a bit longer and don’t rush the crisping.

How can I store leftovers?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or air fryer for best texture.


You’ll Also Love:

  • Cheesy One-Pan Gnocchi with Veggies
  • Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Tortellini Skillet
  • Spicy Chickpea and Potato Skillet
  • 20-Minute Garlic Butter Pasta with Roasted Veggies
  • Roasted Sausage and Sweet Potato Sheet Pan Dinner

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dinner recipe that checks all the boxes—easy, flavorful, comforting, and minimal cleanup—this Crispy Pierogies with Sausage and Broccoli Skillet is the one. It’s the kind of no-fuss meal that you’ll come back to week after week, perfect for family dinners, lazy Sundays, or meal prep magic.

Don’t forget to share your creations with #BeesRecipes on Instagram. We can’t wait to see your delicious take on this savory skillet classic!

Easy Crispy Pierogies with Sausage and Broccoli Skillet Recipe

Recipe by Linda
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes
Calories

450

kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 package (16 oz) frozen potato & cheese pierogies (no need to thaw)
    1 tbsp olive oil (plus more if needed)
    1 tbsp butter (optional for extra flavor)
    12 oz smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into ½-inch rounds
    2 cups fresh broccoli florets
    ½ tsp garlic powder
    ½ tsp onion powder
    Salt & black pepper to taste
    Optional: red pepper flakes, shredded cheese, sour cream for garnish

Directions

  • Blanch the Broccoli:
    Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add broccoli and cook for 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
    Brown the Sausage:
    Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
    Crisp the Pierogies:
    In the same skillet, add a bit more oil or butter. Place frozen pierogies in a single layer. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
    Combine:
    Return sausage and broccoli to the skillet with the pierogies. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
    Serve Hot:
    Plate your skillet meal and garnish with optional shredded cheese, red pepper flakes, or a dollop of sour cream.

Notes

  • Parboiling the broccoli ensures even cooking and color.
    Use a cast iron skillet for maximum crispiness.
    Want more veggies? Add bell peppers or mushrooms.
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