Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
There’s something undeniably comforting about a dish that isn’t just hearty and delicious but also incredibly convenient—enter the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa. Imagine savory cheese-and-potato-filled pierogies layered with smoky kielbasa, all bathed in a creamy, cheesy sauce that simmers itself to perfection while you go about your day. Every bite is a celebration of Eastern European-inspired flavors in true cozy fashion, making it a must-have for anyone who loves easy, soul-warming dinners that the whole family will beg for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things straightforward with simple ingredients that come together into something far more than the sum of their parts. Each component plays an essential role, delivering flavor, creaminess, and that unforgettable texture that makes Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa such a crowd-pleaser.
- Frozen potato and cheese pierogies: These bring a pillowy, carb-laden base filled with cheesy, potato goodness. Use your favorite flavor, or get adventurous!
- Smoked kielbasa: Sliced into rounds, this adds a savory, smoky depth and a hearty, meaty bite to every forkful.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Sprinkled on top for melty, gooey richness and a beautiful golden finish.
- Cream cheese: Cubed and softened, it melts seamlessly into the sauce, making everything luxuriously creamy.
- Sour cream: Adds tang and balances the richness of the dish.
- Chicken broth: Keeps the sauce just the right level of saucy and flavorful, helping everything meld together.
- Onion: Sautéed until sweet and tender, it gives a mellow backbone to your casserole.
- Garlic: Just enough to add savory character without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Black pepper: Brings a gentle hint of warmth to round out the flavors.
- Paprika: Adds color and a subtle smokiness that pairs perfectly with kielbasa.
- Butter: Helps the onions sauté beautifully and infuses the base with richness.
How to Make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by melting the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it’s soft and starting to turn a light golden color, which should take around five minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just about a minute, until fragrant. This step builds a deeply flavorful foundation for the dish and ensures that every bite is packed with sweet, savory undertones.
Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, black pepper, and paprika. Stir everything until the sauce is mostly smooth (it’s fine if some lumps of cream cheese remain—they’ll melt in the slow cooker). This creamy mixture is the secret to turning ordinary pierogies and kielbasa into an irresistible casserole.
Step 3: Layer the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa
Now comes the fun part! In a greased crockpot, layer half of the frozen pierogies evenly across the bottom. Top this with half of the sliced kielbasa, then spread on half of the sautéed onion and garlic mixture, and finish with half of the cream cheese sauce. Repeat the entire process with the remaining ingredients to create beautiful, flavor-packed layers.
Step 4: Cook Until Bubbly and Delicious
Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 2.5 hours. This hands-off method means all the flavors meld together perfectly, while the pierogies turn blissfully tender and the kielbasa soaks up all the creamy goodness.
Step 5: Add the Cheesy Finale
For the most mouthwatering finish, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Cover the crockpot again to let the cheese melt into a bubbly, golden layer. Serve the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa warm, and get ready for a wave of compliments at the table.
How to Serve Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa
Garnishes
To highlight the creamy, savory elements, sprinkle fresh chopped green onions or parsley just before serving. A dash of extra black pepper or a pinch of smoked paprika adds a lovely finishing touch. If you love a little zing, a dollop of extra sour cream on top takes this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa straight to comfort-food heaven.
Side Dishes
This hearty main dish is perfect with lighter sides. Pair it with a simply dressed green salad, steamed green beans, or buttery peas to balance out the richness. A loaf of warm, crusty bread or a side of pickled beets is also a lovely nod to Eastern European tradition.
Creative Ways to Present
You can serve the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa right from the slow cooker for a rustic, family-style meal, or portion it into mini cast iron skillets or ramekins for an extra-cute presentation at parties. For a potluck or buffet, scoop it into a large casserole dish and set out a toppings bar with fresh herbs, extra cheese, and crispy fried onions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers of this casserole are a true treat for future you! Let the dish cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making it even more irresistible the next day.
Freezing
If you’d like to freeze your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa, portion it into individual servings or store the entire batch in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to two months. For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To bring leftovers back to their full, creamy glory, reheat in the microwave in 1-2 minute bursts, covered, until piping hot. You can also gently warm the casserole in an oven-safe dish at 350°F (about 20-25 minutes, covered) or in the slow cooker on the “warm” setting for an easy hands-off option.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If you have access to fresh pierogies, just reduce the slow cooker cooking time by about an hour, since they tend to cook a bit faster than frozen.
Is it necessary to brown the kielbasa first?
While you can add the kielbasa straight to the crockpot, browning it in a skillet beforehand gives extra flavor and a nice crisp texture. It’s a simple extra step that can make a big difference if you have the time!
Can I add vegetables to the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa?
Of course! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or even a handful of spinach would work nicely. Just be sure to sauté heartier vegetables first so they’re tender by serving time.
What’s the best way to make this casserole ahead for a party?
Prepare and layer all the ingredients in the crockpot insert the night before, then cover and refrigerate. The next day, just place the insert in the base and start the cooking process as directed—a total lifesaver for busy hosts!
Can I use low-fat or dairy-free swaps in this recipe?
You can! Low-fat sour cream and light cream cheese will lighten things up, but the texture will be less rich. For dairy-free, reach for your favorite plant-based sour cream, cream cheese, and cheddar alternatives—just note that flavor and meltiness may vary slightly.
Final Thoughts
If you’re longing for some classic comfort that practically cooks itself, I hope you’ll give Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa a spot in your weekly rotation. The creamy, cheesy goodness and smoky kielbasa make each plate a celebration—perfect for feeding a crowd, sharing with loved ones, or stashing in your freezer for an easy weeknight win. Try it soon, and let it become a family favorite in your kitchen too!
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Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Layers of potato and cheese pierogies, smoked kielbasa, and a creamy sauce come together in the slow cooker for a delicious meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 1 (16 oz) package frozen potato and cheese pierogies
- 1 lb smoked kielbasa, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon butter
Pierogi Casserole:
Instructions
- Sauté Onion: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the diced onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Mix Creamy Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, black pepper, and paprika. Stir until mostly smooth.
- Layer Ingredients: In the bottom of a greased crockpot, layer half of the frozen pierogies. Top with half of the sliced kielbasa, half of the sautéed onion mixture, and half of the cream cheese sauce. Repeat the layers.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 2.5 hours. In the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, cover, and let melt.
- Serve: Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- You can use any variety of frozen pierogies for this recipe.
- For extra flavor, consider browning the kielbasa slices before adding them to the crockpot.
- Add chopped green onions or parsley before serving for a fresh touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Eastern European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
