Ohio

Pierogi Tacos

Cleveland's Polish heritage goes handheld! Creamy mashed potatoes with cheddar, caramelized onions, crispy bacon, and sour cream - all the pierogi flavors you love, wrapped in a warm tortilla. Kielbasa optional but encouraged.

Total 40min 🍴 Serves 4 🌱 Vegetarian Option 🥗 Comfort Food

Equipment Needed

🍲 Large Pot
🍳 Skillet
🥚 Potato Masher
🥣 Mixing Bowl

Instructions

1

Cook the potatoes: Peel and cube potatoes. Place in a large pot, cover with cold salted water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well.

2

Caramelize the onions: While potatoes cook, melt 3 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook slowly for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden and sweet. Season with salt.

Tip: Don't rush the onions! Low and slow is the key to true caramelization. Add a splash of water if they start to stick.
3

Cook the bacon: In another skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels, then crumble into bits. Reserve 1 tablespoon bacon fat if cooking kielbasa.

4

Optional - cook kielbasa: If using, slice kielbasa into coins and cook in reserved bacon fat over medium-high heat until browned on both sides, about 3 minutes per side.

5

Mash the potatoes: Add butter and sour cream to the drained potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy. Fold in shredded cheddar while potatoes are still hot. Season with salt and white pepper.

6

Keep filling warm: Cover the potato mixture and keep warm. The filling should be thick enough to scoop but still creamy.

7

Warm tortillas: Heat tortillas in a dry skillet until pliable. Keep wrapped in a clean towel.

8

Assemble: Spread a generous scoop of cheesy potato filling down the center of each tortilla. Top with caramelized onions, bacon bits, kielbasa (if using), a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh chives.

9

Serve immediately: These are best enjoyed hot. Serve with extra sour cream and chives on the side. A side of sauerkraut is very Cleveland-appropriate!

💡 Pro Tips & Variations

  • Cleveland's Polish heritage: Ohio (especially Cleveland) has a huge Polish population. Pierogi are a staple at festivals, churches, and family dinners.
  • Use Yukon Golds: Their naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture make perfect pierogi-style filling. Russets work too but are starchier.
  • Make it vegetarian: Skip the bacon and kielbasa - the cheesy potatoes with caramelized onions are plenty satisfying on their own.
  • Crispy option: After assembling, lightly pan-fry the tacos in butter for a crispy exterior reminiscent of pan-fried pierogies.
  • Add sauerkraut: A little tangy sauerkraut cuts through the richness and adds authentic Polish flavor.
  • Make ahead: The potato filling and caramelized onions can be made a day ahead. Reheat gently before assembling.