Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Recipe

There's nothing more comforting than the rich, hearty flavors of Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa. This one-pot wonder combines tender pierogies, smoky kielbasa, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that will have your family running to the dinner table.

I first discovered this dish when searching for an easy way to bring the flavors of my grandmother’s Polish cooking to life without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s now a go-to recipe for busy weeknights and potlucks alike, bringing a little taste of tradition with a modern, hands-off twist.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa

Get ready to add a new favorite to your rotation of easy, family-friendly meals. Here’s why this dish will quickly earn a permanent spot on your menu.

First, it’s effortless. With just 10 minutes of prep, the slow cooker does all the hard work. Simply layer the ingredients, set it, and forget it. This makes it perfect for hectic weekdays or when you need to free up time for other tasks.

Next, it’s a crowd-pleaser. The buttery pierogies, savory kielbasa, and gooey cheese blend into a flavor combination that appeals to both kids and adults. Even picky eaters will come back for seconds!

Plus, it’s versatile. You can customize it with your favorite types of pierogies, adjust the sauce to your liking, or add vegetables for extra nutrition. It’s a dish that adapts beautifully to your preferences.

Finally, it’s budget-friendly. Using simple, accessible ingredients, you can whip up a hearty meal without breaking the bank.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa lies in its simple, well-balanced ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish shine.

• Pierogies: The star of the show! Frozen pierogies make this recipe incredibly convenient. Choose your favorite variety—classic potato and cheese or something adventurous like jalapeño or spinach. No need to thaw them before adding to the crockpot.
• Kielbasa: Smoky, savory, and slightly sweet, kielbasa adds a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce. You can also substitute smoked sausage or turkey kielbasa for a lighter option.
• Cream Cheese: This ingredient creates the creamy base of the casserole. Full-fat cream cheese works best for richness, but you can use a lower-fat version if desired.
• Cheddar Cheese: A generous sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese melts into the sauce, adding a bold, cheesy flavor. You can mix it up with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for some spice.
• Chicken Broth: This helps thin the sauce slightly while infusing it with a savory undertone. If you’re vegetarian, swap it for vegetable broth.

Special Equipment: A large crockpot (6-quart or bigger) is ideal for this recipe to ensure everything cooks evenly without overflowing.

How to Make This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa

Making this comforting dish is as easy as layering and letting your crockpot do the work. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare the Kielbasa: Slice the kielbasa into bite-sized rounds. For an extra layer of flavor, you can sear the slices in a skillet over medium heat until lightly browned. This step is optional but highly recommended.
2. Layer the Ingredients: Spray your crockpot with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Begin by layering half of the frozen pierogies at the bottom. Scatter half of the kielbasa over the pierogies.
3. Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together softened cream cheese, chicken broth, and a pinch of garlic powder until smooth. Pour half of this mixture over the pierogies and kielbasa. Repeat the layers with the remaining pierogies, kielbasa, and sauce.
4. Add Cheese: Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
5. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The dish is ready when the pierogies are tender, and the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh pop of color before serving.

This dish takes minimal effort but delivers maximum comfort, making it the perfect solution for a busy day.

Storage Options

This dish is as great for leftovers as it is for dinner! Here’s how to store it properly.

• Refrigeration: Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making the leftovers taste even better.
• Freezing: You can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Portion it into individual servings for easy thawing. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm in the microwave or oven.
• Reheating: For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through. If using a microwave, cover loosely with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the kielbasa and add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for a veggie-packed version.
• Spicy Kick: Use jalapeño pierogies or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.
• Healthier Twist: Use turkey kielbasa and light cream cheese for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
• Different Cheeses: Swap out the cheddar for Swiss or Gruyere for a nuttier, more complex flavor profile.
• Extra Protein: Stir in cooked shredded chicken or crumbled bacon for a heartier meal.

Feel free to experiment with different combinations—the possibilities are endless!

There you have it, a hearty and delicious Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa that’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or whenever you need a dish that delivers on flavor with minimal effort. Give it a try, and watch your family fall in love!

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