If you love comforting dishes that feel like a warm hug from the inside, you are going to adore the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe. This hearty meal brings together tender pierogies, smoky kielbasa, and a creamy, cheesy sauce all slow-cooked to perfection. The beauty of this recipe is in its ease and flavor balance—every bite offers a melty, savory experience that’s impossible not to savor. Whether you’re feeding family or hosting friends, this casserole is a real crowd-pleaser that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your heart with pure comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential to create the rich layers of flavor and delightful textures that define this casserole. Each component plays its part, from the creamy base to the sharp cheddar and spicy sausage, making the dish wholesome and satisfying.
- Frozen pierogies (2 lb): Choose potato and cheese or your favorite variety to serve as the tender, chewy centerpiece.
- Kielbasa sausage (1 lb): Sliced into rounds, this adds a smoky, savory punch that balances the creamy sauce.
- Cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz can): Brings a velvety richness that binds everything together perfectly.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds tanginess that brightens the dish and keeps it luscious.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): For a gooey, sharp topping that melts beautifully.
- Small onion (diced): Sautéed to sweetness, it deepens the flavor and adds softness.
- Garlic powder (1/2 tsp): Imparts a gentle savory warmth throughout.
- Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Provides a subtle kick without overpowering.
- Butter (1 tbsp, optional): Used to caramelize the onions for extra richness.
- Chopped parsley or green onions (optional): Fresh herbs add a pop of color and brightness when serving.
How to Make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Onion
Start by lightly greasing your crockpot to prevent sticking later. Then, in a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion in butter (if you’re using it) until it softens and becomes fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step brings out the natural sweetness of the onions, adding a wonderful depth to the casserole.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a medium bowl, stir together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. This sauce is key—it envelopes the pierogies and kielbasa with creamy, tangy flavor that keeps each bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Layering is where the magic begins. First, place half of the frozen pierogies evenly on the bottom of the crockpot. Next, add half of the sliced kielbasa and half of the sautéed onion on top. Spoon over half of the creamy sauce mixture, spreading it gently to cover everything. Repeat the layers with the remaining pierogies, kielbasa, onion, and sauce. Finish by evenly sprinkling the shredded cheddar cheese over the top—this will melt into a perfect golden crust.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. The slow cooking allows all the flavors to meld beautifully and the pierogies to become tender without falling apart. When it’s bubbling and smelling heavenly, your casserole is ready!
How to Serve Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or sliced green onions brighten the rich casserole with a pop of color and fresh flavor. A sprinkle right before serving feels like the final loving touch that makes the dish look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
While this casserole is wonderfully filling on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies balances the richness. Tangy pickled vegetables or sauerkraut also complement the Eastern European roots of the dish wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive twist, serve the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe in individual ramekins or scoop it into bread bowls for an extra cozy experience. You can also layer it with caramelized onions on top or a drizzle of sour cream when plating for that extra wow factor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only deepen, making it just as delicious the next day for an easy lunch or dinner.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully! Transfer cooled leftovers into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat portions in the microwave or in a covered dish in a 350°F oven until heated through. Add a little splash of water or broth if it seems dry to keep the creamy texture alive.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh pierogies can be used; just keep an eye on the cooking time as they may cook faster than frozen, preventing them from over-softening.
Is it necessary to sauté the onions first?
While optional, sautéing the onions softens their flavor and adds sweetness, enhancing the overall taste of the casserole. Raw onions can be used in a pinch but won’t deliver the same depth.
What other meats can I use instead of kielbasa?
You can swap kielbasa for smoked sausage, bratwurst, or even cooked bacon for a different but delicious flavor profile. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Use vegetarian pierogies and substitute kielbasa with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage alternatives to keep it hearty and satisfying.
How do I prevent the casserole from sticking to the crockpot?
Lightly greasing the crockpot before layering your ingredients helps prevent sticking. Using a slow cooker liner is another convenient option for easy cleanup.
Final Thoughts
Making the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe is like treating yourself to a warm, indulgent meal that anyone can feel proud of serving. It takes simple ingredients and transforms them into a comforting feast that fills your home with enticing aromas and your loved ones with smiles. I truly hope you enjoy making it as much as you enjoy eating it!
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Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (on Low)
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Eastern European-Inspired
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This hearty Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa combines tender potato and cheese pierogies with flavorful kielbasa sausage, creamy mushroom soup, and sharp cheddar cheese. Slow-cooked to bubbly perfection, it’s an easy and comforting Eastern European-inspired main dish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (2 lb) bag frozen pierogies (potato and cheese or your choice)
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp butter (optional, for sautéing onion)
- Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot: Lightly grease the inside of your crockpot to prevent sticking.
- Sauté the Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion in butter (if using) for about 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Mix Soup Base: In a medium bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
- Layer Ingredients: Place half of the frozen pierogies in an even layer at the bottom of the crockpot. Add half of the sliced kielbasa sausage on top, then half of the cooked onions. Spoon half of the soup mixture evenly over everything.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process with the remaining pierogies, kielbasa, onions, and soup mixture.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the layered casserole.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on Low for 4–5 hours or on High for 2–3 hours. Cook until the casserole is heated through, bubbly, and the cheese is melted.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving for a fresh pop of flavor and color.
Notes
- You can use any flavor of pierogies such as onion, bacon, or spinach for variety.
- For an extra depth of flavor, brown the kielbasa in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot.
- This recipe can be halved to fit a smaller slow cooker and serve fewer people.
