Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe

The Ultimate Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe

Comfort food reaches new heights with this hearty crockpot pierogi casserole with kielbasa that promises to warm every corner of your stomach.

Layers of cheesy, potato-filled pierogies mingle deliciously with smoky kielbasa sausage in this slow-cooked marvel.

Creamy textures and bold flavors merge effortlessly in this simple one-pot wonder.

Weeknight dinners never looked so inviting, with minimal prep and maximum satisfaction.

This Polish-inspired dish brings traditional flavors into a modern, convenient format.

Each bite offers a perfect balance of savory sausage and tender pierogies.

Gather around the table and savor this comforting meal that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience.

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Comfort Food Reasons to Love It

  • Dump all ingredients into the crockpot and let it work its magic, creating a delicious dinner with minimal hands-on cooking time.
  • Combines classic Polish-inspired flavors of pierogies and kielbasa into a creamy, cheesy one-pot meal that feels like a warm hug.
  • Packed with familiar, crowd-pleasing ingredients that even picky eaters will love, making mealtime stress-free and enjoyable.
  • Perfect for busy families, potlucks, or casual gatherings, this hearty casserole requires little effort but delivers maximum flavor and satisfaction.

Ingredient List for Kielbasa Pierogi Casserole

Main Ingredients:
  • Frozen Pierogies: Soft, pillowy dumplings that serve as the hearty base of this comforting casserole.
  • Kielbasa: Flavorful Polish sausage that adds rich, smoky notes to the dish.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheese that provides a creamy, tangy element to the casserole.
Liquid Components:
  • Chicken Broth: Provides moisture and depth of flavor to the casserole, helping to cook and blend all ingredients together.
  • Cream Cheese: Smooth dairy product that creates a rich, creamy sauce when whisked with broth.
Garnish:
  • Green Onions: Fresh, optional topping that adds a light, crisp finish to the dish.

Tools and Slow Cooker Must-Haves

  • Crockpot: Essential for slow cooking the entire dish, ensuring even heat distribution and rich flavor melding.
  • Whisk: Perfect for blending cream cheese and chicken broth into a smooth mixture.
  • Measuring Cups: Crucial for accurately portioning chicken broth and cheese.
  • Sharp Knife: Needed for slicing kielbasa and green onions.
  • Stirring Spoon: Helps mix ingredients and distribute them evenly in the crockpot.

How to Assemble Pierogi Casserole in a Crockpot

Step 1: Toss Everything in the Slow Cooker

Grab your trusty crockpot and dump in frozen pierogies, sliced kielbasa, and a hearty portion of cheddar cheese.

Pour chicken broth over the ingredients, making sure everything gets a nice coating.

Give it a gentle stir to spread the goodies around evenly.

Step 2: Let the Magic Happen

Set your crockpot to high heat and let it work its delicious magic for 3-4 hours.

If you’re planning ahead, you can also use the low setting for 6 hours.

This slow cooking lets all those amazing flavors dance and mingle together.

Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Surprise

About half an hour before the end of cooking, create your secret weapon: the cream cheese sauce.

Warm up the cream cheese with some extra chicken broth.

You can use the microwave or stovetop – whatever feels easier.

Whisk until the mixture becomes silky smooth and free of lumps.

Step 4: Blend in the Creamy Goodness

Pour your luscious cream cheese mixture into the crockpot.

Stir gently to blend everything together.

Sprinkle another generous handful of cheddar cheese on top.

Cover and let it cook on low for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt into pure comfort.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Scoop out this hearty, cheesy goodness into bowls.

If you want to get fancy, sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Dinner is served!

Casserole Tips for Creamy Layers

  • Lightly spray the crockpot with non-stick cooking spray before adding ingredients to ensure easy serving and cleanup.
  • Sauté kielbasa briefly before adding to the crockpot to intensify its smoky flavor and add a slight caramelization.
  • If the cream cheese mixture seems too thick, gradually add extra chicken broth to create a smoother, more pourable sauce.
  • Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a spicier version of the casserole.
  • Replace kielbasa with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth to create a meat-free alternative that's equally delicious.

Pierogi Casserole Variations for Every Season

  • Vegetarian Pierogi Delight: Replace kielbasa with plant-based sausage or smoked tofu, using vegetable broth for a meat-free version that maintains robust flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Comfort Bowl: Swap traditional pierogies with gluten-free potato dumplings, ensuring those with wheat sensitivities can enjoy this hearty meal.
  • Spicy Southwestern Remix: Add diced green chiles, swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese, and include smoked paprika for a zesty southwestern-inspired casserole that brings heat and excitement.
  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Alternative

Serving Casserole Family Style

  • Flavor-Packed Plate Companions: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives on top for a bright, herbal pop that cuts through the rich, creamy casserole.
  • Crunch Factor: Serve with crispy garlic bread or toasted sourdough slices to add a delightful textural contrast to the soft, cheesy dish.
  • Veggie Balance: Add a simple mixed green salad with tangy vinaigrette on the side to lighten up the hearty casserole and provide a fresh counterpoint.
  • Quick Protein Boost: Top with crispy bacon bits or fried onions for an extra layer of savory flavor and satisfying crunch that elevates the entire meal.

Storing Pierogi Casserole for Future Meals

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Keep the casserole away from raw foods to prevent cross-contamination.
  • Transfer cooled casserole to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air before sealing. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label container with date and contents.
  • Place portion in microwave-safe dish. Cover with damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

FAQs

  • What are pierogies?

Pierogies are traditional Polish dumplings made with unleavened dough and filled with various ingredients like potato, cheese, sauerkraut, or meat. They’re popular in Eastern European cuisine and often served as a comfort food.

  • Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen?

Fresh pierogies can work, but frozen ones are recommended because they hold up better during slow cooking and prevent becoming mushy. Frozen pierogies are pre-cooked and maintain their texture in the crockpot.

  • Is kielbasa necessary for this recipe?

Kielbasa adds rich, smoky flavor and protein to the dish, but you can substitute with other sausages like smoked sausage or turkey sausage if desired. The key is using a sausage that complements the pierogies.

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Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe


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4.7 from 18 reviews

  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Creamy crockpot pierogi casserole with kielbasa brings Polish comfort straight to dinner tables. Rich layers of potato dumplings, smoky sausage, and cheese combine for hearty meal you’ll savor with genuine satisfaction.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1 pound kielbasa, sliced
  • 3 packages Mrs. Ts cheddar pierogies

Dairy:

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 8-ounce block cream cheese

Liquid and Seasonings:

  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crockpot by layering frozen pierogies, kielbasa slices, and half the cheddar cheese in a 4-6 quart slow cooker, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
  2. Pour chicken broth over the layered ingredients, covering them completely to prevent drying out during cooking.
  3. Set crockpot to high temperature and cook for 3-4 hours, or alternatively use low setting for 6 hours to develop rich, robust flavors.
  4. Thirty minutes before cooking completion, create a smooth cream cheese sauce by whisking cream cheese with remaining chicken broth until fully integrated and lump-free.
  5. Gently fold the cream cheese mixture into the crockpot, stirring carefully to prevent pierogi breakage and ensure even coating.
  6. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese across the top of the casserole, allowing it to melt and create a golden, bubbling surface.
  7. Cover and continue cooking on low setting for an additional 30 minutes to allow cheese to melt completely and flavors to blend.
  8. Once cooking is complete, let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes to allow sauce to thicken slightly.
  9. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions for added color and brightness, then serve hot directly from the crockpot.

Notes

  • Opt for Quick-Cooking Variations: Use pre-cooked or fresh pierogies instead of frozen to reduce overall cooking time and enhance texture.
  • Customize Cheese Selections: Experiment with different cheese blends like Swiss, Gouda, or pepper jack to add unique flavor dimensions and personalize the dish.
  • Boost Nutritional Value: Incorporate extra vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to increase vegetable content and create a more balanced meal.
  • Accommodate Dietary Needs: Substitute kielbasa with turkey sausage or plant-based alternatives for lower-fat or vegetarian versions, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comforting casserole.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours (on High) or 7 hours (on Low)
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch, Appetizer
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Polish

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 408
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 1080mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 56mg
Marcus Reed

Marcus Reed

Founder & Food Content Creator

Expertise

Single-recipe development, Seasonal and local ingredient utilization, Food photography and styling, Culinary writing and content creation​

Education

Culinary Arts Certificate, Blue Ridge Community and Technical College, WV
Focus: Fundamentals of culinary techniques, emphasizing hands-on experience in small-scale kitchen settings.


Marcus’s story begins in Asheville, where good food and family kitchens shaped his earliest memories. After hands-on culinary training and a lot of trial (and a little error), he realized that real cooking isn’t about perfection, it’s about connection.
At Pan and Oven, Marcus crafts recipes that are easy to follow, packed with flavor, and built for real kitchens.

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