Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

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Introduction

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the kind of hearty, comforting dish that makes you feel right at home and in everywhere. Imagine layers of creamy, cheesy potatoes and savory kielbasa, all cooked together in the slow cooker for maximum creamy flavor. The pierogi filling blends perfectly with the richness of the kielbasa, while the slow-cooking process ensures every bite is full of melt-in-your-mouth goodness. It’s a warm, cozy meal that fills the kitchen with irresistible scents and is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

I first made this casserole on a chilly evening, and it quickly became a family favorite. The combination of tender pierogi filling, savory kielbasa, and gooey cheese is beyond comforting. The flavors meld together beautifully as they cook, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and familiar. The kielbasa adds a smoky, meaty depth, perfectly complementing the creamy potatoes and rich cheese.

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the perfect meal for days when you need something simple yet flavorful. It’s easy to prepare and cooks effortlessly, so you can set it and forget it, only to return to a warm, delicious dinner. This dish is great for a cozy family meal or a potluck with friends. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing comfort food that’s both filling and flavorful, this casserole is a must-try!

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Comfort food lovers
• Busy families
• Potlucks or gatherings
• Hearty, one-dish meals

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder – Everything is cooked in the slow cooker for minimal prep and cleanup.
• Comforting and Hearty – A filling, satisfying meal with layers of flavor.
• Flavorful Kielbasa – Smoked sausage adds a savory depth that complements the creamy pierogi.
• Versatile – Can be customized with your favorite cheese, vegetables, or seasonings.
• Easy to Make – Just layer the ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 5 hours
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4-5 hours on low
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
• 1 package (16 oz) frozen pierogi (potato and cheese or your choice)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of choice)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or use cream of chicken for a different flavor)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Highlights

• Kielbasa Sausage – Provides a rich, smoky flavor that balances the creamy pierogi.
• Pierogi – Traditionally filled with potatoes and cheese, offering a comforting, starchy base.
• Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully and adds a sharp, creamy layer to the casserole.
• Sour Cream – Gives the casserole a smooth, tangy flavor that enhances the richness.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup – Adds a creamy consistency and earthy depth to the dish.

Step-by-Step

Instructions

Layer the Ingredients

1. Prep the Slow Cooker – Spray the inside of the crockpot with non-stick cooking spray for easy cleanup.
2. Layer Pierogi – Place a layer of frozen pierogi at the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. Add Kielbasa & Onion – Layer sliced kielbasa and chopped onion over the pierogi.
4. Top with Cheese – Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the kielbasa and onion.

Make the Creamy Sauce

5. Mix Soup & Sour Cream – In a separate bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
6. Pour Sauce Over – Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the pierogi, kielbasa, and cheese.

Cook the Casserole

7. Cook on Low – Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the pierogi are tender and the casserole is heated through.
8. Finish with Cheese – During the last 30 minutes, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top and let it melt.

Serve

9. Serve & Enjoy – Once the casserole is ready, serve hot and enjoy! Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, if desired.

How to Serve

• Family-Style – Serve directly from the crockpot for a cozy, communal dining experience.
• With Fresh Salad – Pair with a light, fresh salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
• With Crusty Bread – A side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• As a Side Dish – This casserole can be served as a side dish to complement a roasted meat or vegetables.

Additional Tips

• Use Fresh Kielbasa – If you can’t find pre-cooked kielbasa, feel free to use raw sausage and cook it before adding it to the crockpot.
• Customize the Vegetables – Feel free to add other veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to add more flavor and texture.
• Use Fresh Pierogi – If you prefer fresh pierogi, you can use them instead of frozen, but you may need to adjust the cooking time.
• Don’t Overcrowd – Be sure to leave enough space in the crockpot for the ingredients to cook evenly.
• Make Ahead – This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated before cooking. Just add an extra 30 minutes to the cooking time if starting from cold.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegetarian Version – Omit the kielbasa and use more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers.
2. Cheesy Pierogi Casserole – Add extra layers of cheese throughout the casserole for an even more decadent dish.
3. Spicy Kielbasa – Use a spicy kielbasa for an added kick to the dish.
4. Add Sauerkraut – Add a layer of sauerkraut for a tangy contrast to the creamy pierogi.
5. Garlic Butter Version – Drizzle melted garlic butter over the top before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
6. Bacon or Turkey Bacon – For a slightly lighter version, use turkey bacon or regular bacon in place of the kielbasa.
7. Mushroom Variation – Swap out the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade cream sauce with sautéed mushrooms for a fresher flavor.
8. Gluten-Free Version – Ensure that the cream of mushroom soup and pierogi are gluten-free for a gluten-free adaptation.
9. Herbed Version – Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor profile of the dish.
10. Pierogi & Bacon Casserole – Add crispy bacon for an extra layer of savory flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing – Assemble the casserole, but do not cook it. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen on low for 6-7 hours.
• Storing Leftovers – Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or crockpot, adding a splash of broth if necessary to keep it moist.

Special Equipment

1. Crockpot or Slow Cooker – Essential for making this casserole with minimal effort.
2. Slicing Knife – To slice kielbasa and vegetables evenly.
3. Mixing Bowls – For preparing the creamy sauce.
4. Measuring Cups & Spoons – Ensures accurate measurements for liquids and seasonings.
5. Cooking Spray – Helps prevent the casserole from sticking to the slow cooker.
6. Spatula – To stir the creamy sauce and combine ingredients.
7. Serving Spoon – For serving the casserole.
8. Storage Containers – For storing leftovers or preparing ahead.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh pierogi instead of frozen?
   Yes, fresh pierogi can be used, though the cooking time may need to be adjusted.
2. Can I use a different sausage instead of kielbasa?
   Yes, feel free to use any sausage of your choice, such as turkey sausage or a spicy sausage.
3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just add an extra 30 minutes to the cooking time if starting from cold.
4. What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
   You can use cream of chicken soup or make a homemade cream sauce with sautéed mushrooms.
5. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
   Yes, ensure you use gluten-free pierogi and a gluten-free version of the soup for a fully gluten-free dish.
6. Can I cook this casserole on high in the crockpot?
   Yes, you can cook it on high for about 2-3 hours, but slow cooking on low gives the best results.
7. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a bit of added broth if necessary.

Conclusion

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a comforting, hearty dish that brings the warmth of classic Eastern European flavors to your table with minimal effort. The slow-cooked kielbasa infuses the casserole with rich, savory goodness, while the tender pierogis soak up all the flavors, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

What truly sets this casserole apart is its simplicity and convenience, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting a gathering. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Whether served with a dollop of sour cream or alongside a fresh green salad, this casserole is sure to satisfy cravings and leave you coming back for more.

A true crowd-pleaser that combines tradition with ease, Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is sure to become a family favorite. I hope you enjoy this cozy, flavorful dish as much as I do—don’t forget to share your creations and tag me on social media! Bon appétit!