Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Introduction

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort with every bite. The rich, smoky flavor of kielbasa pairs perfectly with the creamy, cheesy goodness of tender pierogi, all slow-cooked to perfection in your crockpot. The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity—just toss everything into the slow cooker, let it do the work, and you’re left with a hearty, satisfying meal with minimal effort.

I’ve made this casserole countless times, especially on busy nights when I want something comforting and filling without spending hours in the kitchen. One of my favorite things about it is how versatile it is; you can easily adjust the flavors and ingredients to suit what you have on hand. Plus, it’s a big crowd-pleaser! Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual get-together, this dish never fails to impress. The combination of pierogi, kielbasa, onions, and cheese creates the ultimate cozy, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.

What I love most about Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is how easy it is to make while still feeling like a special dish. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together around the table, and with each bite, you can’t help but savor the comforting flavors that make this casserole so irresistible. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this dish is always a winner!

Perfect for:

• Family dinners
• Weeknight meals
• Special gatherings
• Comfort food lovers
• Kielbasa enthusiasts

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Here’s why Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa will quickly become a go-to recipe in your rotation:

• Easy One-Pot Meal: This recipe is perfect for busy days because it’s all cooked in the crockpot, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: The combination of pierogi and kielbasa delivers a comforting, filling dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
• Minimal Prep Time: With only a few simple steps, including layering the ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly, making it a great option for busy families.
• Versatile Recipe: You can customize the recipe with your favorite types of pierogi, different kielbasa varieties, or even swap in other vegetables for added flavor.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors of this dish are sure to impress guests at parties, family dinners, or potlucks.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6 hours on low
• Servings: 8 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

To make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb kielbasa, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
• 2 bags frozen pierogi (cheese, potato, or your choice)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup chicken broth or water
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Kielbasa: The kielbasa adds a smoky, savory flavor to the casserole that perfectly complements the other ingredients.
• Frozen Pierogi: Using frozen pierogi simplifies the recipe, making it a quick and convenient choice without sacrificing taste.
• Sour Cream: The sour cream adds a tangy richness to the casserole, making it creamy and indulgent.
• Cheddar Cheese: The shredded cheddar gives the casserole a melty, gooey texture that enhances the dish’s comfort-food appeal.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: The creamy base made with mushroom soup adds depth and smoothness to the casserole, helping to bind all the ingredients together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa:

Prepare the Ingredients:

1. Slice the Kielbasa: Slice the kielbasa into ¼-inch thick rounds and set aside.
2. Slice the Onion: Slice the onion into thin strips and set aside.

Assemble the Casserole:

3. Layer the Ingredients: In the bottom of the crockpot, layer the frozen pierogi. Next, add a layer of sliced kielbasa, followed by some sliced onions.
4. Add the Creamy Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and melted butter. Stir until well combined.
5. Pour the Mixture: Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the crockpot, making sure everything is well-coated.
6. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

Cook the Casserole:

7. Set the Crockpot: Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours.
8. Check for Doneness: After 6 hours, check to ensure that the pierogi are tender and the kielbasa is heated through.
9. Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor (optional).

How to Serve Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is versatile and can be served in many delicious ways:

• With a Side Salad: Serve the casserole with a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the dish.
• With Sauerkraut: Pair it with sauerkraut for an authentic Eastern European touch that enhances the flavors of the kielbasa.
• With Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli would make a perfect accompaniment.
• With Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm, buttery garlic bread for an even more indulgent meal.
• For Lunch Leftovers: This casserole makes a great leftover lunch. Reheat it in the microwave or oven for a quick, comforting meal.

Additional Tips for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is perfect:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Crockpot: Make sure not to overstuff the crockpot. If you need to, make the casserole in two batches to ensure it cooks evenly.
• Use Different Types of Pierogi: You can switch up the flavor of the pierogi based on your preferences. Try potato, cheese, or even meat-filled pierogi for variety.
• Add More Cheese: If you love extra cheesy dishes, feel free to add more shredded cheese on top of the casserole before serving.
• Customize the Vegetables: Add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach, for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Serve with Sour Cream: For an added creamy touch, serve the casserole with a dollop of sour cream on top.

Recipe Variations for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Here are 10 variations to try for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa:

• Add Bacon: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits into the casserole for an extra smoky, savory flavor.
• Use Different Sausages: Swap kielbasa for other sausages like smoked sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
• Veggie Pierogi: Use vegetable pierogi like spinach and mushroom for a healthier twist.
• Spicy Kielbasa: Opt for spicy kielbasa or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
• Cheese Blend: Use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Use Fresh Pierogi: If you can find fresh pierogi, use those instead of frozen for an even more homemade taste.
• Add Sauerkraut: Layer some sauerkraut with the pierogi for added tang and texture.
• Use Heavy Cream: Swap sour cream for heavy cream for a richer, more decadent casserole.
• Add Mushrooms: Mix in sautéed mushrooms for an earthy addition that complements the kielbasa.
• Add Green Beans: Add frozen or fresh green beans to the casserole for an added vegetable component.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: If you have leftovers, you can freeze the casserole. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven, adding a little extra cheese on top if desired.

Special Equipment for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Here are some special equipment items that will make preparing Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa easier:

• Slow Cooker: A 6-quart crockpot is ideal for this recipe. If your crockpot is smaller, consider halving the ingredients.
• Sauté Pan: Use a sauté pan to brown kielbasa and onions before layering in the crockpot for added flavor.
• Large Mixing Bowl: A large bowl is useful for mixing the creamy sauce ingredients together before adding them to the crockpot.
• Spatula: A spatula will help you evenly spread the creamy mixture over the pierogi and kielbasa layers.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements, especially when adding broth, butter, and seasonings.

FAQ Section for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

1. Can I use fresh pierogi instead of frozen?
   Yes, fresh pierogi can be used. Just layer them as you would with frozen pierogi, but the cooking time may be slightly shorter.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. Then, cook it in the crockpot the next day.
3. What if I don’t like kielbasa?
   You can substitute kielbasa with any sausage you prefer, such as Italian sausage, turkey sausage, or chicken sausage.
4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   Yes, you can omit the kielbasa and use vegetable pierogi for a vegetarian-friendly version.
5. Can I add more vegetables?
   Absolutely! You can add mushrooms, spinach, or even bell peppers to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrition.

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Conclusion

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy layers with savory kielbasa for a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. The slow cooking process ensures that the flavors meld together beautifully, making it the perfect meal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this casserole is sure to become a go-to recipe for any occasion.

The versatility of this dish allows you to customize it to suit your preferences. You can add extra veggies, swap in different types of cheese, or even top it with crispy breadcrumbs for an added crunch. No matter how you make it, this pierogi casserole is guaranteed to deliver comforting flavors and an easy, fuss-free meal.

I’d love to hear how your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa turns out! Snap a picture and tag me on Instagram to share your delicious creation. Don’t forget to leave a comment with any personal twists you added to make this dish your own!