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Pierogi Taco Shell Recipe Fusion Street Food

Pierogi Taco Shell Recipe Fusion Street Food


  • Author: Jusmira Rayne
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Transform frozen pierogies into crispy ‘taco shells’ filled with seasoned meat/lentils and cheese. An easy, family-friendly fusion street food for busy weeknights.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 (approx. 500g) Frozen Pierogies, of your favorite variety
  • 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef or turkey, or 1 cup (180g) dry lentils for a vegetarian option
  • 2 tablespoons (30g) Taco Seasoning
  • 1 cup (100g) shredded cheese, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a taco blend
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) Olive Oil or Butter
  • Toppings Galore: Fresh salsa, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pierogies: Cook frozen pierogies according to package directions (boil for 5-7 minutes until tender, pan-fry for 8-10 minutes until golden, or air-fry for extra crispness). Ensure they are cooked through.
  2. Create the ‘Taco Shell’: If you boiled your pierogies, gently pat them dry. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Place the cooked pierogies in the hot pan, leaving a little space between each. Using a sturdy spatula, gently but firmly press down on each pierogi to flatten it slightly, creating a wider, more stable base for our unique Pierogi Taco Shell. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they’re beautifully golden brown and slightly crispy.
  3. Prepare the Filling: While your pierogies are transforming, brown your ground meat or cook your lentils in a separate pan over medium heat. If using ground meat, drain any excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning and about ¼ cup (60ml) of water. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld and the mixture is well-combined.
  4. Assemble Your Pierogi Taco Shells: Once the pierogies are ready, spoon a generous amount of the hot, seasoned filling into the center of each flattened, crispy pierogi. Immediately top with shredded cheese, allowing the warmth of the filling to melt it slightly into gooey perfection.
  5. Add Your Favorite Toppings: Now for the fun part! Load up your Pierogi Taco Shells with fresh salsa, crisp shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, a dollop of cooling sour cream or Greek yogurt, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Notes

  • Alternatives & Upgrades: For a lighter, more wholesome option, consider whole grain pierogies. Easily swap ground meat for black beans or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian option. Choosing organic ingredients can also provide an extra wholesome touch. For a flavor boost, a squeeze of fresh lime, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or pickled jalapeños can add an extra kick.
  • Quick Tips: For a faster Pierogi Taco Shell, use pre-cooked ground meat or pre-chopped veggies for toppings. If you notice pierogies sticking to the pan, add a bit more olive oil or butter. For extra crispy ‘shells,’ make sure not to overcrowd your pan, allowing each pierogi to get perfectly golden.
  • Troubleshooting: If your filling seems a little too dry, stir in a tablespoon or two of extra salsa or tomato sauce. If your pierogies feel too soft after flattening, press them down more firmly and cook them a bit longer to achieve that ideal ‘shell’ texture.
  • Estimated Nutrition: The nutritional information provided is an estimate based on standard ingredient values and preparation methods. Actual values may vary depending on specific brands and portion sizes.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Pan-fried, Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Fusion

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 Pierogi Taco Shell
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Pierogi