Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the egg, sour cream, and melted butter. Mix until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too dry, add a little water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency.
- Rest Dough: Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Mix Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, and sour cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Pierogies
- Roll Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
- Cut Circles: Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out 3-inch circles from the dough.
- Add Filling: Place about 1 tablespoon of filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Seal Pierogies: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for an extra seal.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
Step 5: Cook the Pierogies
- Arrange in Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with oil. Place the pierogies in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they don’t touch. You may need to cook them in batches.
- Air Fry: Lightly spray or brush the tops of the pierogies with oil. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve the Pierogies
- Melted Butter: Transfer the pierogies to a serving platter and drizzle with melted butter.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh chives or green onions.
- Serve: Serve the pierogies hot with a side of sour cream for dipping.
Tips for Perfect Pierogies
- Seal Tightly: Ensure the edges of the pierogies are sealed tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.
- Cook in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Use Leftover Filling: Any leftover filling can be used as a topping for the cooked pierogies or served as a side dish.
Variations to Try
- Different Fillings: Experiment with different fillings such as sauerkraut and mushrooms, spinach and feta, or ground meat and onions.
- Sweet Pierogies: Try sweet fillings like fruit preserves, sweetened ricotta, or apple and cinnamon for a dessert version.
- Vegan Pierogies: Use dairy-free alternatives for the dough and filling to make vegan pierogies.
Serving Suggestions
- With Onions: Sautéed onions make a great topping for pierogies.
- With Bacon: Crispy bacon bits add a delicious crunch and smoky flavor.
- With Applesauce: Sweet applesauce pairs surprisingly well with the savory pierogies.
Why This Recipe Works
Using the air fryer to cook pierogies ensures they come out perfectly crispy on the outside while maintaining a soft and flavorful filling. The air fryer also makes the process quicker and healthier compared to traditional frying. This method is easy and delivers consistently delicious results.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Pierogies are a fantastic way to enjoy this classic comfort food with less hassle and more flavor. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a satisfying snack, these pierogies are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the ease and deliciousness of this air fryer recipe!