Crispy Broccoli and Cheese Pierogy Skillet (Quick, Cheesy & Family-Approved)

Crispy Broccoli and Cheese Pierogy Skillet is that dreamy, one-pan comfort meal you whip up when life’s a little chaotic but your cravings still demand something creamy, cheesy, and soul-hugging. Whether you’re feeding picky kids, fueling up after a long workday, or just want to feel like you cooked (without actually cooking that much), this skillet dish has your back.

With crispy edges, a gooey cheese sauce, and bits of sautéed broccoli that make you feel slightly virtuous—it’s basically a hug in a skillet. Bonus: It all comes together in under 40 minutes, which means you’ll be sinking your fork into melty, cheesy goodness before anyone starts asking, “What’s for dinner again?” Trust me, this Crispy Broccoli and Cheese Pierogy Skillet will slide into your dinner rotation faster than you can say “pass the panko.”

Table of Contents

What is Crispy Broccoli and Cheese Pierogy Skillet?

At its core, a Crispy Broccoli and Cheese Pierogy Skillet is comfort food with a slight veggie glow-up. It starts with those buttery, pillowy pierogies stuffed with cheesy goodness (we’re using Mrs. T’s Four Cheese Medley here, because why mess with perfection?). Then they get tossed into a skillet with olive oil and fresh chopped broccoli, seared just until they’ve got a golden-brown hug from the pan.

But wait—there’s more. A rich, cheddar-laced cream sauce gets poured over the top like a warm blanket, then we finish the whole thing in the oven until the cheese is bubbling and the panko topping turns a beautiful golden crunch. It’s like your favorite casserole and your go-to skillet dinner had a baby—and that baby is delicious.

Reasons to Try Crispy Broccoli and Cheese Pierogy Skillet

First, can we talk about how fast this is? You’re looking at 10 minutes of prep and about 30 minutes from skillet to plate. It’s got just enough green to pass as a “balanced” dinner, but still packs enough cheesy comfort to win over the pickiest of eaters (and let’s be honest, some grownups fall into that category, too). It’s also ridiculously satisfying—like you’re getting the crispiness of oven-baked, the creaminess of stovetop mac and cheese, and the “I-did-that” pride of a one-pan meal.

Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding your partner, a table of kids, or just your future self with leftovers, this Crispy Broccoli and Cheese Pierogy Skillet is a dinner win you didn’t know you needed.

Ingredients Needed to Make Crispy Broccoli and Cheese Pierogy Skillet

• 1 box Mrs. T’s 4 Cheese Medley Pierogies
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ tablespoon flour
• 1 teaspoon salt, divided
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 6 ounces shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small head broccoli, chopped
• ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs

Instructions to Make Crispy Broccoli and Cheese Pierogy Skillet

Let’s walk through the step by step process of making this Crispy Broccoli and Cheese Pierogy Skillet. Even if you’re not exactly BFFs with your stovetop, don’t stress—this recipe is all about simple moves that lead to cheesy, skillet-cooked glory. Each step is designed to guide you clearly, with helpful tips and flavor-boosting tricks along the way. Let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven – Set the Stage for Crispiness

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key, especially for that final golden-brown finish on the cheese and panko topping. Don’t skip this, or your crispy dreams might fall a little flat.

Quick Tip: If you’re working with a convection oven, you can drop the temperature slightly to 350°F—just keep an eye on the topping as it bakes.

Want more guidance on prepping your oven for different meals? You might love our Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes recipe, which also gets that perfect baked finish.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce – Stir with Confidence

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once the butter is bubbling, stir in ½ tablespoon of flour and ½ teaspoon of salt. You’re creating a roux here—a thickener that gives your sauce that silky, luxurious texture. Whisk continuously for 2–3 minutes, or until it starts to smell slightly nutty and looks golden brown.

Now slowly pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, whisking the whole time to avoid any lumps. Let it cook for another 3 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens slightly.

Finally, stir in 4 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese (that’s about two-thirds of the total cheese). Stir until completely melted into a smooth, gooey sauce.

Need a dairy-free or lighter version? Check out ingredient swaps in our Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for ideas like plant-based cream or reduced-fat cheese.

Step 3: Sauté the Broccoli – Bring the Green to Life

While the sauce is coming together, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add your chopped broccoli florets (from one small head) and sprinkle with the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt.

Sauté the broccoli for about 3 minutes, just until it starts to soften and turn a vibrant green. You’re not trying to cook it all the way—just giving it a head start so it doesn’t end up undercooked later.

Pro tip: For extra browning and flavor, avoid overcrowding the skillet. Want more veggie-forward recipes? Take a peek at our Healthy Sautéed Vegetables collection.

Step 4: Add the Pierogies – Crispy Edges Begin Here

Add Mrs. T’s Four Cheese Medley Pierogies directly into the skillet with the broccoli. Sauté everything together for about 5 minutes, gently turning the pierogies so they brown evenly on both sides.

You’re aiming for lightly crispy edges—this step helps develop a toasty flavor before the oven does its magic.

Step by Step Suggestion: Don’t overcrowd the pierogies in the skillet. If needed, work in batches or use a large enough pan to give each one room to crisp.

Step 5: Assemble the Skillet – Time for Cheese and Crunch

Once your pierogies are golden, reduce the heat and pour the cheese sauce evenly over everything in the skillet. Use a spatula to nudge it around so each pierogy gets coated in cheesy love.

Sprinkle the remaining 2 ounces of cheddar cheese over the top, followed by ¼ cup of panko breadcrumbs. This creates a crispy, golden topping that’s going to bake to perfection.

Feeling extra? Try adding a light sprinkle of paprika or garlic powder on top for an added punch.

Step 6: Bake to Crispy, Cheesy Perfection

Transfer the whole skillet into your preheated oven. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the panko topping is a rich, golden brown.

If you like a deeper crunch, broil the skillet for the last 1–2 minutes, but watch it closely—panko can go from perfect to “oops” in a flash.

Helpful Link: For more one-pan dinner inspiration, you’ll love our Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet—equally cozy and skillet-friendly!

Step 7: Serve It Up – Family Style or Fancy Plated

Let the skillet cool for about 5 minutes before digging in. This helps the sauce set slightly and keeps everyone from burning their tongues (ask me how I know). Then serve it up hot—straight from the skillet or plated with a simple salad or soup.

Got leftovers? Lucky you. Reheat them in the oven for the best texture (see our Storage Tips section for details).

What to Serve with Crispy Broccoli and Cheese Pierogy Skillet

This dish is filling on its own, but if you want to round things out, go for something light and fresh. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette is a great way to add some zing. If you’re in a cozy, wintry mood, pair it with a bowl of soup like this Heartwarming Vegetarian Gnocchi Soup or Easy Spiced Carrot and Sweet Potato Soup. Or, if you’re going full comfort, throw in a dessert like our Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies. Because balance, right?

Key Tips for Making Crispy Broccoli and Cheese Pierogy Skillet

• Use a cast iron skillet if you have one. It gets the pierogies extra crispy and transitions straight into the oven like a champ.
• Don’t skip the panko. It gives that irresistible crunch on top that makes this dish next-level.
• Grate your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese can be convenient, but it doesn’t melt as smoothly.
• Go heavy on the broccoli if you’re veggie-forward. You can bulk it up without changing the cooking time.
• Make it spicy. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce if you like a little kick.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Crispy Broccoli and Cheese Pierogy Skillet

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, the oven or toaster oven is your best bet to get that crisp back—about 350°F for 10–12 minutes. Microwaving works too if you’re short on time, but the texture won’t be as crispy (still delish, though). Want to make it ahead? Prep the cheese sauce and chop the broccoli in advance so it’s just a quick toss-and-bake when dinnertime hits.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Totally! Just thaw and pat it dry before sautéing to avoid extra moisture.

What if I can’t find Mrs. T’s 4 Cheese Pierogies?
Any cheese-stuffed pierogies will work—just avoid sweet ones.

Is this vegetarian?
Yep! Just double-check your pierogy ingredients to be sure there’s no sneaky meat.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Try using gluten-free pierogies and swap the flour with a GF alternative like rice flour. Use GF breadcrumbs, and you’re good.

Can I freeze it?
This one’s best fresh, but if you really want to freeze it, do so before baking. Let it cool completely, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 1 month. Bake straight from frozen, adding 10 more minutes to the cooking time.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about a Crispy Broccoli and Cheese Pierogy Skillet—it’s comfort, ease, and crispy cheese all in one pan. Whether you’re short on time, low on energy, or just in desperate need of cheesy carbs (no judgment), this skillet has your name written all over it. It checks all the boxes: family-friendly, weeknight-easy, and sneakily veggie-packed. And if you want to keep riding the comfort food train, check out our Shortcut Pierogies with Marry Me Sauce for another weeknight winner.

Visit our Pinterest for regular slow cooker recipe updates, or join our Facebook discussions where cooking fans exchange their favorite hearty meal ideas.

Print