If you’ve ever wanted to cozy up with a dish that wraps you in warm nostalgia while being incredibly easy to make, the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe is your new best friend. Combining tender potato and cheese pierogies with smoky kielbasa, all smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce, this slow cooker meal delivers comfort and flavor with zero fuss. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels like a big, comforting hug from the inside out.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this casserole lies in its simple yet soulful ingredients, each contributing a unique layer of flavor, texture, and color to the dish. From the creamy sauce to the savory sausage and tender pierogies, every component plays a starring role.
- Frozen pierogies (16 oz packet): Potato and cheese pierogies bring classic Eastern European comfort to your plate with their pillowy texture.
- Kielbasa (1 pound, sliced): Adds a smoky, savory punch that perfectly complements the creamy elements.
- Cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz can): Creates a rich, velvety base that ties all the flavors together effortlessly.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Adds tangy creaminess that balances the savory kielbasa and the cheesy pierogies.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully for that gooey, cheesy goodness everyone loves.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Imparts subtle depth and warmth.
- Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Boosts savory notes without overpowering the dish.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds just a touch of heat and punch.
- Small onion (diced): Fresh onion pieces bring texture and a hint of sweetness once cooked.
- Butter (2 tablespoons, optional): For adding an extra layer of richness and silky smooth texture.
- Chopped chives or parsley (for garnish): A fresh, colorful finish that brightens the hearty casserole.
How to Make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Crockpot
Start by spraying the inside of your crockpot with a nonstick spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup a dream. This small step ensures that all your hard work results in a perfectly cooked casserole that comes out easily.
Step 2: Layer Pierogies and Kielbasa
Place the frozen pierogies and sliced kielbasa directly into the crockpot. The frozen pierogies will cook beautifully as the dish simmers, absorbing the rich flavors from the kielbasa and the sauce.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a mixing bowl, stir together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and diced onion. This mixture will be the luscious, flavorful sauce that ties everything together into that irresistible comfort food you crave.
Step 4: Combine and Cook
Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the pierogies and kielbasa layers, ensuring everything is generously coated. Dot the top with butter if you’re using it—that extra buttery touch elevates the casserole to something truly special. Then cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or if you’re short on time, set it on high for 2 to 3 hours. The pierogies will become tender and the sauce bubbling with cheesy, savory goodness.
Step 5: Final Touches
Before serving, gently stir the casserole to evenly distribute the sauce and flavors. Garnish with freshly chopped chives or parsley to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness that balances the richness perfectly.
How to Serve Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped chives or parsley on top brings brightness and visual appeal to this hearty dish, making your family or guests feel like they’re about to enjoy something truly special. You can also add a dollop of sour cream on the side for extra creaminess and tang.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, simple green vegetables like steamed broccoli or a crisp garden salad make a wonderful fresh counterpoint. Roasted Brussels sprouts or a light cucumber salad offer textural contrast to the creamy casserole as well.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist at gatherings, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or mini crockpots to keep portions warm and personal. You can also turn leftovers into hearty skillet breakfasts by frying the casserole with eggs on the side—comfort food bliss any time of day!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more with time, making it perfect for quick weekday meals.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of this casserole for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing and store in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven until warmed through, stirring occasionally. If reheating from frozen, thaw first or use a lower temperature setting to warm evenly without overcooking the pierogies.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh pierogies will work wonderfully and might reduce the cooking time slightly since they’re not frozen. Just keep an eye on the texture during cooking so they don’t get too soft.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes! Simply omit the kielbasa and consider adding mushrooms, sautéed onions, and maybe some smoked paprika for that savory depth. The creamy sauce keeps it hearty and satisfying.
Can I substitute cream of mushroom soup with something else?
You sure can. Cream of chicken soup is a great alternative for a slightly different flavor profile, or you can make your own creamy base with broth and cream cheese for a fresher taste.
How spicy is this casserole?
This recipe is mildly seasoned with black pepper and aromatic powders, making it flavorful without heat. You can always add a pinch of cayenne or hot paprika if you prefer a spicy kick.
What is the best type of kielbasa to use?
Look for smoked kielbasa with a good balance of fat and seasoning—it provides that smoky richness that makes this dish unforgettable. Polish-style kielbasa works great for authenticity and flavor.
Final Thoughts
There is something so wonderfully satisfying about the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe—it’s like home on a plate, filled with cozy flavors and simple ingredients that come together effortlessly. Whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself, this dish promises warmth and smiles. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a beloved staple in your dinner rotation!
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Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (low) or 2 hours (high)
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (using low setting)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American, Eastern European-Inspired
Description
This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a hearty and comforting dish combining tender potato and cheese pierogies with flavorful kielbasa sausage, baked in a creamy mixture of mushroom soup, sour cream, and cheddar cheese. Perfect for an easy slow-cooked meal that’s rich, cheesy, and full of satisfying flavors, this casserole requires minimal prep and offers a warm, savory experience reminiscent of Eastern European comfort food.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (16 oz) package frozen pierogies (potato and cheese)
- 1 pound kielbasa, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for richness)
- Chopped chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot: Spray the inside of a crockpot with nonstick spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Layer Pierogies and Kielbasa: Place the frozen pierogies and sliced kielbasa evenly in the crockpot as the base layer.
- Mix the Creamy Sauce: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and diced onion. Stir until well blended.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the creamy mixture over the pierogies and kielbasa in the crockpot, spreading it out evenly to ensure all ingredients are covered.
- Add Butter: Dot the top with butter if using to add extra richness and flavor to the casserole.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours until the pierogies are fully heated through and the dish is bubbly and hot.
- Finish and Serve: Gently stir the casserole before serving to combine flavors. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley for a fresh touch.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of chicken soup in place of cream of mushroom soup if preferred.
- For enhanced flavor, sauté the kielbasa and onion before layering in the crockpot.
- Butter is optional but recommended for added richness.
- Serve immediately after cooking for best texture and taste.
