As the sun begins to set and the aroma of dinner fills the kitchen, there’s something oddly comforting about the idea of a warm bowl of soup. On a particularly chilly evening, I found myself craving a dish that wrapped me in a cozy embrace, something hearty but effortlessly prepared. That’s when I decided to whip up a batch of my Quick and Creamy Pierogi Dill Soup.
With its rich combination of pillowy pierogi, smoky kielbasa, and fresh dill, this soup isn’t just a meal—it’s a hug in a bowl. And the best part? It comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a delightful homemade dish without the hassle. Whether you’re in search of comfort food or need a quick, satisfying solution that pleases everyone at the table, this recipe is your answer. Let’s dive into the kitchen and bring a little warmth to your evening!
Why is Pierogi Dill Soup the ultimate comfort food?
Comforting warmth: This soup envelops you in a rich, creamy texture that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.
Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
Versatile variations: Easily customize with different proteins or veggie options to cater to your dietary preferences.
Crowd-pleaser: With its delightful blend of flavors, everyone at the table will be coming back for seconds!
Culinary tradition: Enjoy a taste of Eastern European heritage with every spoonful, making it not just a meal but a comforting experience.
If you’re looking for other comforting dishes, be sure to check out my collection of hearty soups and stews!
Pierogi Dill Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Vegetable Oil – Perfect for browning kielbasa; olive oil works as a nice substitute.
• Kielbasa – Adds a smoky depth to the soup; feel free to swap it for Andouille sausage or bacon if desired.
• Yellow Onion – A foundational flavor; shallots can be a great alternative if you have them handy.
• Carrots – Bring a touch of sweetness and vibrant color; parsnips can be used for an interesting twist.
• Garlic – One clove is recommended for that essential aromatic flavor; steer clear of garlic powder for the best taste.
• Sweet Paprika – Infuses a mild sweetness and color; consider smoked paprika for a richer flavor option.
• Ground Cumin – Offers earthy notes; you can omit it for a lighter flavor profile depending on your preference.
• Chicken Broth – Serves as the flavorful base; homemade is best, but a quality store-bought version will do just fine.
• Savoy Cabbage – Provides texture and a bit of crunch; green cabbage or spinach can be good alternatives.
For Creaminess
• Cheese Spread – Melts beautifully into the soup, enhancing creaminess; consider cream cheese or sour cream as substitutes if needed.
For the Star Ingredient
• Pierogi – The heart of the dish; use your favorite filling, and both fresh or frozen pierogi are absolutely acceptable!
For Freshness
• Fresh Dill – Essential for bright flavor; if you can’t find it, fresh parsley makes a suitable substitute.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Season to taste; this will elevate the overall flavor profile beautifully.
With these Pierogi Dill Soup ingredients, you’ll have all you need to create a delightful, heartwarming dish ready to warm you up from the inside out!
How to Make Pierogi Dill Soup
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Prep ingredients: Slice the kielbasa into bite-sized pieces, dice your onion finely, mince the garlic, peel and halve the carrots, and chop the savoy cabbage and fresh dill. This will ensure everything is ready to go for a smooth cooking experience.
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Heat oil: In a large pot over medium heat, warm the vegetable oil. Once it’s shimmering, add the sliced kielbasa and brown it for about 5 minutes, letting those delightful flavors develop. Then, remove the kielbasa from the pot and set it aside.
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Sauté vegetables: Add diced onion, minced garlic, and sliced carrots to the pot. Sauté these for about 3 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Stir in sweet paprika and ground cumin for an extra flavor boost.
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Simmer broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Add the chopped cabbage, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes or until the cabbage is tender and vibrant in color.
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Incorporate cheese: Stir in the cheese spread, letting it melt into the soup to create a lovely creamy texture. Then, bring the heat back up and gently add the pierogi.
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Cook pierogi: Boil the pierogi until they float—usually about 3-5 minutes for fresh ones and up to 8 minutes for frozen. This is how you know they’re perfectly cooked!
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Finish and serve: Turn off the heat and stir in the reserved kielbasa, fresh dill, and season with black pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into warm bowls and enjoy every comforting spoonful.
Optional: Serve with crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a wholesome meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Pierogi Dill Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Pierogi Dill Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup without the cheese spread and pierogi for up to 3 months. Transfer to freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to bring back the creamy texture.
Note: To keep the best flavor and texture, add fresh pierogi and cheese spread just before serving.
Make Ahead Options
These Pierogi Dill Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks! You can chop the vegetables and reserve them in airtight containers up to 3 days in advance, which not only saves time but also makes dinner a breeze on those hectic evenings. Additionally, cook the kielbasa and store it separately; this prevents sogginess in the soup. Just remember not to add the cheese spread and pierogi until you’re ready to serve—this ensures they maintain their delightful texture. When you’re set to enjoy, simply reheat the broth, mix in the cheese spread, and toss in the pierogi, cooking until they float. You’ll have a comforting, delicious meal with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Pierogi Dill Soup
- Fresh Garlic: Always use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for vibrant flavor. It truly elevates the overall taste of your Pierogi Dill Soup.
- Room Temperature Cheese: Make sure your cheese spread is at room temperature; this helps it incorporate smoothly into the soup without clumping.
- Substitutions: Feel free to switch kielbasa for a vegetarian option, like mushrooms, to cater to different dietary needs while keeping the soup delightful.
- Pierogi Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your pierogi; they’re done when they float. If overcooked, they may become too mushy.
- Storage Tips: For best results, store the soup without the pierogi and cheese spread added until ready to serve to maintain perfect texture.
- Flavor Boost: Want more depth? Add a tablespoon of tomato paste along with the broth for a richer flavor profile in your Pierogi Dill Soup.
Pierogi Dill Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this soup to match your taste preferences!
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Vegetarian Delight: Omit kielbasa and add an assortment of hearty vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers for a satisfying twist.
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Tomato Infusion: Incorporate a tablespoon of tomato paste for a richer, more tangy flavor that balances beautifully with the creamy broth.
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Lighter Protein: Swap kielbasa with shredded rotisserie chicken for a leaner option that still delivers on flavor.
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Cabbage Swap: Try using kale or collard greens in place of savoy cabbage for a different texture and added nutrition.
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Creamier Base: Boost the creaminess by replacing the cheese spread with a blend of cream cheese and sour cream for a velvety finish.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for those who enjoy a spicy kick in their soup.
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Herb Variation: Experiment with fresh basil or cilantro in lieu of dill for a refreshing herbaceous flavor that brightens the soup.
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Grain Enrichment: Stir in some cooked quinoa or barley to make this dish even heartier and add a chewy texture that complements the pierogi perfectly.
What to Serve with Pierogi Dill Soup?
Warm your heart and soul with a cozy meal perfectly complemented by delightful sides!
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Crusty Bread: The perfect partner, this bread invites you to soak up every last drop of soup, enhancing the overall experience.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, these garlicky delights add a flavorful kick to your cozy bowl.
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad brings a vibrant crunch and brightness against the creamy base of the soup while keeping things light.
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Roasted Vegetables: The sweetness of roasted veggies, like carrots and squash, adds a lovely contrast and boosts the meal’s nutritional value.
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Pickled Beets: These tangy bites offer a delightful pop of flavor that balances the richness of the soup, a classic Eastern European pairing!
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Sour Cream: A dollop on top can enhance creaminess while adding a tangy burst that plays well with the flavors of the soup.
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Light White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc refreshes the palate and complements the smoky kielbasa and earthy dill beautifully.
With these pairings, you’ll create a meal that’s both comforting and inviting!
Pierogi Dill Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of pierogi should I use for the soup?
Absolutely! You can use your favorite filling for the pierogi—traditional choices include cheese & potato or sauerkraut. Both fresh and frozen pierogi work beautifully in this recipe.
How should I store leftover Pierogi Dill Soup?
To store leftover soup, place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to maintain its freshness.
Can I freeze Pierogi Dill Soup?
Yes! For longer storage, freeze the soup without the cheese spread and pierogi. Use freezer-safe containers and it will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What should I do if the soup becomes too thick?
No problem! If your soup turns out too thick, you can easily adjust it. Add a little chicken broth or water to loosen it up until you reach your desired consistency.
Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
Very much so! You can simply omit the kielbasa and add more vegetables or even mushrooms for depth. A fantastic alternative is to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep that comforting essence.
Can pets eat this soup?
It’s best not to share this soup with your pets, particularly because of the garlic and onions, as they can be toxic to dogs and cats. Always keep special meals for our furry friends safe!
Creamy Pierogi Dill Soup for Cozy Weeknight Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice the kielbasa into bite-sized pieces, dice the onion finely, mince the garlic, peel and halve the carrots, and chop the savoy cabbage and fresh dill.
- In a large pot over medium heat, warm the vegetable oil. Add the sliced kielbasa and brown for about 5 minutes, then remove from the pot.
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and sliced carrots to the pot. Sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Add the chopped cabbage, cover, and simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the cheese spread until melted, then add the pierogi.
- Boil the pierogi until they float, usually 3-5 minutes for fresh or up to 8 minutes for frozen.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the reserved kielbasa, fresh dill, and season with black pepper. Serve warm.