Ingredients

Basic Pierogi

5 pounds (about 12 medium) peeled and quartered Yukon gold potatoes 

Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper 

8 ounces room-temperature cream cheese 

4 tablespoons melted unsalted butter 

2 sticks unsalted butter 

Preparation

Make potato filling: Place potatoes in a large pot, and cover with cold water. Season with salt. Bring to a boil; cook until fork-tender, 8 to 9 minutes. Drain; pass through a ricer. Stir in cream cheese and butter. Season with salt and pepper. For each pierogi, form filling into a 1 1/2-inch oval (about 1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons).

Make Brown Butter: Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, swirling occasionally, until dark golden brown, 8 to 10 minutes. Makes 1 cup.