Name: Pierogi Dill Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Eastern European
Ingredients: 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 11 ounces kielbasa, sliced; 1 yellow onion, diced; 2 carrots, peeled and cut into half-moons; 1 garlic clove, minced; ¼ head savoy cabbage, cored and chopped; 3 tbsp chopped fresh dill; 1 tsp sweet paprika; 1 tsp ground cumin; 5 cups chicken broth; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 3 tbsp cheese spread, at room temperature; 12 cheese and potato filled pierogi (adjust quantity to preference)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving something cozy and comforting with a beautiful balance of flavors, you simply have to try this Pierogi Dill Soup. It’s a soul-soothing bowl that combines the hearty goodness of cheese and potato pierogi with the bright, fresh taste of dill, all nestled in a rich, flavorful broth. Each spoonful is like a warm hug, with tender kielbasa, crisp cabbage, and gentle spices dancing together perfectly. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly night or anytime you want a satisfying meal that feels like home, Pierogi Dill Soup is an absolute showstopper you’ll want to revisit again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may seem simple, but each one is essential to creating the layered taste and inviting texture of Pierogi Dill Soup. The kielbasa brings smoky warmth, the fresh dill adds brightness, and the combination of veggies and broth creates a comforting base that ties everything together beautifully.

1 tbsp vegetable oil: Perfect for browning the kielbasa to develop deep flavor.
11 ounces kielbasa (sliced): Adds savory, smoky richness and a meaty bite.
1 yellow onion (diced): Provides a subtle sweetness and aromatic foundation.
2 carrots (peeled and cut into half-moons): Bring a hint of natural sweetness and vibrant color.
1 garlic clove (minced): Enhances the aroma with a touch of warmth and zest.
1 tsp sweet paprika: Offers gentle smokiness and a lovely color tint.
1 tsp ground cumin: Adds earthy depth and complexity.
5 cups chicken broth: The heart of the soup, providing a rich, savory base.
¼ head savoy cabbage (cored and chopped): Delivers subtle crunch and freshness.
3 tbsp cheese spread (at room temperature): Creates a creamy, silky texture that enriches the broth.
12 pierogi (cheese and potato filling): The star ingredient offering soft dough and a velvety filling.
3 tbsp chopped fresh dill: Lifts the soup with its bright, herbal notes.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a finishing touch of gentle heat and seasoning.

How to Make Pierogi Dill Soup

Step 1: Get Your Prep Ready

Start by slicing the kielbasa into bite-sized pieces so each spoonful delivers a savory punch. Peel and slice your carrots into half-moons for even cooking. Mince the garlic finely to distribute its flavor throughout the soup, dice the onion, chop the cabbage, and finely chop the dill to preserve its bright freshness.

Step 2: Brown the Kielbasa

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat, then add the sliced kielbasa. Cook until it’s nicely browned on all sides, about five minutes. This step is crucial because it deepens the flavor and releases those smoky, meaty juices that will enrich the broth. Once browned, remove the kielbasa and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables and Spices

In the same pot, add the minced garlic, diced onion, and sliced carrots. Sauté them together for about three minutes until the onions turn translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Stir in the sweet paprika and ground cumin now—this will toast the spices and elevate their aroma, building a flavorful base for your Pierogi Dill Soup.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Then add the chopped savoy cabbage, cover the pot, and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes so the cabbage softens just right and the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Add Cheese Spread and Pierogi

Remove the pot lid and stir in the cheese spread; it melts seamlessly into the broth, giving it a luxurious creaminess. Turn the heat back up to medium-high and carefully add your pierogi. Boil them until they float to the top, which usually takes 3-5 minutes if fresh, but up to 8 minutes for frozen ones.

Step 6: Final Touches

Turn off the heat and gently fold the browned kielbasa and chopped dill into the soup. A sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper finishes the dish with a little kick. Now your Pierogi Dill Soup is ready to be enjoyed, warm and bursting with comforting flavors.

How to Serve Pierogi Dill Soup

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes take your Pierogi Dill Soup from delicious to dazzling. A few extra sprigs of fresh dill on top add a burst of color and fragrance. If you like, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of finely chopped green onions makes for a wonderfully creamy or sharp contrast that complements the soup’s richness.

Side Dishes

This hearty soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a warm baguette, perfect for sopping up every last bit of broth. A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing counterpoint, balancing the richness of the cheese and kielbasa.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Pierogi Dill Soup in charming bread bowls to impress guests and add an extra layer of indulgence. For a fun twist, consider mini pierogi floating on top as bite-sized garnishes while keeping the rest of the soup classic. A sprinkle of paprika or extra dill dusted artistically around the rim of the bowl also makes for an inviting presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer your Pierogi Dill Soup into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy comforting leftovers that just taste better as the flavors settle together.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup, but keep in mind that pierogi may change texture slightly after thawing. To freeze, store the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. For best results, consider freezing the broth and vegetables separately from the pierogi to maintain their shape and texture.

Reheating

Reheat your Pierogi Dill Soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup seems too thick after reheating, add a splash of broth or water to restore its silky consistency without sacrificing flavor.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pierogi or should I make them from scratch?

Store-bought pierogi work wonderfully for this recipe and save a lot of time, which is great for weeknight dinners. If you have the time and love homemade touches, making your own pierogi will deepen the personal satisfaction but isn’t necessary to enjoy an incredible Pierogi Dill Soup.

Is there a vegetarian way to make Pierogi Dill Soup?

Absolutely! Swap the kielbasa for smoked tofu or mushrooms for that meaty texture and omit the chicken broth, replacing it with vegetable broth. This way, you keep all the delicious layers of flavor while making it meat-free.

Can I substitute the cheese spread with something else?

If you don’t have cheese spread, cream cheese or even a splash of heavy cream can work nicely to give the soup that creamy, rich texture. Just be sure to soften or warm them slightly for easier blending into the broth.

Should I peel the carrots before adding them to the soup?

Peeling carrots is recommended because it removes any bitterness from the skin and ensures a smoother texture and more appealing look in your soup. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in overall flavor.

How important is fresh dill in this recipe?

Fresh dill brings a bright, fresh, and slightly citrusy flavor that harmonizes perfectly with the creamy broth and hearty pierogi. While dried dill can be used in a pinch, fresh dill really elevates the Pierogi Dill Soup to another level, so try to use it whenever you can.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Pierogi Dill Soup enough—it’s a heartwarming meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Every ingredient plays its part, creating a perfect harmony of comfort and freshness. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this soup promises smiles and satisfied appetites. Give it a try and let it become one of your cherished go-to recipes for cozy, delicious meals!

Pierogi Dill Soup Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 13 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

This Pierogi Dill Soup is a comforting and hearty Eastern European-inspired dish combining savory kielbasa, tender pierogi, and fresh dill in a flavorful broth enriched with cabbage, carrots, and a touch of cheese spread. Perfect for a cozy meal, this soup blends aromatic spices like paprika and cumin to deliver a unique, warming experience.

Instructions

Chopping: Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Slice the kielbasa into ¼-inch pieces. Peel and cut the carrots into half-moons. Mince the garlic clove, dice the onion, core and chop the savoy cabbage, and chop the fresh dill.
Browning Kielbasa: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned and slightly crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove the kielbasa from the pot and set aside.
Sautéing Vegetables and Adding Spices: In the same pot, add the minced garlic, diced onion, and carrot slices. Sauté the vegetables for about 3 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the sweet paprika and ground cumin to evenly coat the vegetables and bloom the spices.
Simmering the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Add the chopped savoy cabbage, cover the pot with a lid, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften.
Incorporating Cheese Spread and Pierogi: Remove the lid and stir in the room temperature cheese spread, ensuring it fully melts into the broth to create a creamy consistency. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the pierogi to the soup. Boil until they start to float to the surface—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes for fresh pierogi or up to 8 minutes if using frozen.
Finishing Touches: Turn off the heat, then gently stir the browned kielbasa and fresh dill into the soup. Adjust the seasoning with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve the soup hot and enjoy a delightful blend of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, substitute kielbasa with smoked tofu or omit and use vegetable broth.
Frozen pierogi may require longer cooking times; ensure they are fully heated through before serving.
Cheese spread adds creaminess, but you can substitute with cream cheese or sour cream if preferred.
Adjust dill quantity according to taste; fresh dill provides a bright herbal note essential to the soup’s character.
Leftovers store well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat gently to avoid pierogi overcooking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Sautéing, Simmering, Boiling
Cuisine: Eastern European