Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Recipe

If you’re in the mood for a cozy, hearty meal that’s easy to make, this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the perfect choice. Combining tender pierogis, savory kielbasa, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish is pure comfort food—and the best part is, your slow cooker does all the work! Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or at a family gathering, this one-pot meal is sure to satisfy everyone. Read on for the full recipe, including tips and variations to make it just right.

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What Is a Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa?

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a simple, one-pot dish made by layering frozen pierogis and kielbasa in a crockpot and slow-cooking them in a creamy, cheesy sauce. The pierogis—traditional Eastern European dumplings filled with potatoes and cheese—soak up all the rich flavors of the sauce, while the kielbasa adds smoky, savory notes. This dish is the ultimate comfort food, combining cheesy, creamy goodness with the heartiness of sausage and dumplings, all cooked to perfection in the slow cooker.

Ingredients List for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Before you start, make sure you’ve got all your ingredients ready. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Casserole:

• 2 (16 oz) packages of frozen potato and cheese pierogis (about 24 pierogis total)
• 1 lb (450g) kielbasa sausage, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheddar blend)
• 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option)
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces

For Garnishing:

• Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Additional shredded cheese (optional, for topping)

Substitutions and Variations

If you’d like to adapt the recipe based on your preferences or ingredients on hand, here are some great substitutions and variations:

• Kielbasa: You can substitute kielbasa with smoked sausage, bratwurst, or even chorizo for a spicier twist. For a vegetarian version, use a plant-based sausage alternative.
• Pierogis: Stick with potato and cheese pierogis for this classic recipe, but feel free to try other fillings like potato and onion, sauerkraut, or spinach and feta pierogis for variation.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: For a vegetarian option, use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup instead of cream of chicken.
• Sour Cream: Greek yogurt can be substituted for sour cream if you prefer a lighter, tangier flavor.
• Cheese: Cheddar cheese works well here, but you can switch it up with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a combination of your favorite cheeses.
• Vegetables: Add in some veggies like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms to boost the nutritional content and create a more well-rounded meal.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s dive into how to make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa. This recipe is easy, hands-off, and perfect for slow-cooking throughout the day.

How to Make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Crockpot: Lightly grease the inside of your crockpot with nonstick spray or butter. This helps prevent the casserole from sticking to the sides.
2. Layer the Pierogis and Kielbasa: Arrange one package of frozen pierogis in an even layer on the bottom of the crockpot. Top with half of the sliced kielbasa and half of the sliced onions.
3. Add Cheese and Seasoning: Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the kielbasa and onions. Then, sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper over the cheese.
4. Repeat the Layers: Add another layer with the remaining frozen pierogis, kielbasa, and onions. Top this second layer with the rest of the cheddar cheese.
5. Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a medium bowl, mix together the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir until well combined. Pour this creamy mixture evenly over the pierogis and kielbasa in the crockpot, making sure everything is covered.
6. Add Butter: Dot the top of the casserole with the small pieces of butter. This adds a rich, buttery flavor that enhances the overall creaminess.
7. Slow Cook the Casserole: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 4-5 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours, until the pierogis are heated through, the cheese is melted, and the kielbasa is cooked and tender.
8. Garnish and Serve: Once the casserole is done, sprinkle fresh parsley or green onions over the top for a pop of color. You can also add more shredded cheese on top and let it melt before serving, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few tips to avoid common mistakes and make sure your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa turns out perfectly every time:

• Not Defrosting the Pierogis: You don’t need to thaw the pierogis before placing them in the crockpot, but make sure to stir them gently toward the end of cooking to ensure even heating.
• Too Much Liquid: Be careful not to add too much broth, as the pierogis may release some moisture while cooking. The ½ cup of broth is just enough to keep everything creamy without making it soupy.
• Overcooking: Don’t leave the casserole in the crockpot for too long, especially on high heat, as the pierogis can become too soft and fall apart.
• Skipping the Butter: Adding butter helps keep the casserole rich and flavorful. While it’s optional, it’s highly recommended for the best result.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key, even with a humble, hearty dish like Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa. Here’s how you can serve and garnish this meal to impress your family or guests.

How to Serve Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa:

• With a Side Salad: Serve this rich casserole with a simple green salad to balance the heaviness of the dish.
• With Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots, make a great side to round out the meal.
• With Bread: A slice of crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra creamy sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole:

• Garnish each serving with chopped parsley or green onions to add freshness and a vibrant pop of color.
• Sprinkle additional shredded cheese over the top and broil the dish for a couple of minutes (if your crockpot insert is oven-safe) to create a bubbly, golden cheese crust.
• Serve in individual bowls for a cozy, family-style presentation.

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe Tips

To ensure your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is absolutely perfect every time, here are a few extra tips:

• Use Different Pierogi Flavors: Experiment with different pierogi flavors like cheddar and bacon, potato and onion, or even sauerkraut for a unique twist on the dish.
• Pre-Cook the Kielbasa: If you like your kielbasa with a little extra crispiness, you can pre-sear it in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot. This will add depth of flavor and a nice texture to the dish.
• Make It Creamier: If you prefer an extra creamy texture, stir in some cream cheese or add more sour cream at the end of cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use fresh pierogis instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh pierogis, but they may cook a bit faster than frozen ones. Check the casserole halfway through cooking to ensure the pierogis don’t overcook.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole in the crockpot the night before, store it in the fridge, and then start cooking it the next day. Just make sure to let the crockpot come to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before turning it on to avoid cracking.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Can I freeze Crockpot Pierogi Casserole?
While you can freeze the dish, keep in mind that the texture of the pierogis may change slightly once reheated. If you want to freeze it, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months, and reheat in the oven or crockpot.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for extra nutrition. Just layer them in between the pierogis and kielbasa.

Conclusion

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the ultimate comfort food that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With tender pierogis, smoky kielbasa, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish is a surefire hit for family dinners, potlucks, or casual get-togethers. The best part? It’s made in the crockpot, so you can set it and forget it, letting your slow cooker do all the work. Try this recipe today, and enjoy the rich, hearty flavors of this simple yet satisfying meal!

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