Barbecued Perogies: A Taste of Summer, Grilled to Perfection

I still remember summer nights at my Baba’s (grandmother’s) house, the smell of woodsmoke mingling with the savory aroma of onions sizzling in butter. She’d make mountains of perogies, and while some boiled traditionally, she always saved a batch for the grill. Watching her carefully wrap those plump dumplings in foil, then carefully flipping them over hot embers was an experience on its own. This recipe is my homage to those unforgettable evenings, bringing a smoky twist to a beloved classic.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
• Total Time: 15-20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 12 frozen pierogies
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon water
• ½ cup chopped onion

Equipment Needed

• Aluminum foil
• Barbecue grill

Instructions

1. Tear off a large sheet of aluminum foil, about twice the size you think you’ll need. Fold it in half to create a double layer for added protection against the grill’s heat. This will help prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

2. Arrange the frozen pierogies on the double layer of aluminum foil. Leave a little space between each perogy so they cook evenly and don’t steam each other.

3. Evenly distribute the butter over the perogies, dotting each generously. The butter adds richness and helps to brown the perogies beautifully.

4. Sprinkle the water over the perogies and onions. The water creates a bit of steam inside the foil packet, helping to cook the perogies through without drying them out.

5. Wrap the foil loosely around the perogies, ensuring the edges are sealed tightly to create a closed packet. You want enough room for steam to circulate but no gaps for it to escape.

6. Place the foil packet on the barbecue grill over low to medium heat. The goal is to gently cook the perogies without burning them.

7. Turn the foil packet frequently, about every 3-4 minutes. This ensures even cooking and prevents any one side from getting scorched.

8. Cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the perogies are heated through, softened, and slightly browned. The exact cooking time will depend on the heat of your grill, so keep a close eye on them.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overcrowd the foil packet. If you’re cooking for a larger group, make multiple packets instead of trying to squeeze everything into one.
• Use good quality butter. The flavor of the butter will shine through in the finished dish, so opt for a high-quality brand.
• Pre-sauté the onions. For a deeper, sweeter flavor, sauté the chopped onions in a little butter before adding them to the foil packet.
• Add a splash of beer. For an extra layer of flavor, substitute the water with a tablespoon of your favorite beer. The steam will infuse the perogies with a subtle malty note.
• Check for doneness by carefully opening the foil packet and piercing a perogy with a fork. It should be tender and heated through. If it’s still frozen in the center, reseal the packet and continue cooking for a few more minutes.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the barbecued perogies immediately while they’re hot and juicy. They’re delicious on their own, but even better with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh dill, or a drizzle of melted butter. For a complete meal, serve them alongside grilled sausage, a crisp green salad, or some steamed vegetables.

Leftover perogies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave them, pan-fry them in a little butter, or even grill them again in a fresh foil packet. Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture of the perogies.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	150 kcal	8%
Total Fat	7g	11%
Saturated Fat	4g	20%
Cholesterol	15mg	5%
Sodium	200mg	9%
Total Carbohydrate	20g	7%
Dietary Fiber	1g	4%
Sugars	2g	–
Protein	3g	6%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegan Barbecued Perogies: Use vegan butter or olive oil instead of dairy butter. Be sure to use plant-based perogies. Add sauteed mushrooms for umami.
• Spicy Barbecued Perogies: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the foil packet for a touch of heat.
• Cheesy Barbecued Perogies: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the perogies during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Herbed Barbecued Perogies: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the foil packet for a fragrant twist.
• Loaded Barbecued Perogies: Top the cooked perogies with bacon bits, shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions for a decadent treat.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use fresh perogies instead of frozen?
A: Yes, you can use fresh perogies, but you may need to reduce the cooking time slightly, as they will cook faster than frozen ones.

Q: Can I cook these perogies in the oven?
A: Absolutely! Simply wrap the foil packet tightly and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the perogies are heated through.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the foil packet?
A: Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the foil packet along with the onions.

Q: How do I prevent the perogies from sticking to the foil?
A: Using a double layer of aluminum foil and ensuring the packet is well-sealed will help prevent sticking. You can also lightly grease the foil with cooking spray before adding the perogies.

Q: What is the best way to serve these perogies?
A: Barbecued perogies are delicious with a variety of toppings and sides. Try serving them with sour cream, chopped green onions, bacon bits, grilled sausage, or a side salad.

Final Thoughts

Barbecued perogies are a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for summer cookouts. The smoky flavor from the grill adds a unique twist to this classic comfort food, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So, fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and give this recipe a try. I’m confident that you’ll love the taste of summer, grilled to perfection. Don’t hesitate to adjust the recipe to your liking and let me know what variations you come up with! Enjoy!