If you are looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe is exactly what you need. This comforting slow cooker meal layers cheesy potato pierogies with savory kielbasa sausage, rich cream cheese, and melted cheddar to create a luscious casserole that’s effortlessly tasty and soul-satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping for a cozy night in, this recipe combines simple ingredients with big flavor, making it an instant favorite every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward, accessible ingredients that come together effortlessly, providing a balance of creamy, savory, and hearty textures all in one dish. Every ingredient plays its part to bring you layers of flavor and a truly comforting meal.
- Frozen potato and cheddar pierogies (2 boxes, 16 oz each): These are the star of the casserole, delivering soft, cheesy goodness with every bite.
- Kielbasa sausage (14 oz, sliced): Adds a smoky, meaty bite that perfectly complements the creamy pierogies.
- Cream cheese (8 oz block, softened and cubed): Creates a smooth, velvety base that blends all the flavors together beautifully.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Brightens and balances the richness of the cream cheese while adding a tangy twist.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts to create a golden, bubbly, irresistible crust on top.
- Small onion (diced): Brings a subtle sweetness and texture to the layers beneath the cheese.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Enhances the savory profile without overpowering the dish.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick to balance the creamy and cheesy elements.
- Smoked paprika (¼ teaspoon): Infuses a smoky warmth, tying together the sausage and spices.
- Milk (¼ cup): Helps in smoothing out the cream cheese and sour cream mixture for easy layering.
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note to brighten the final presentation.
How to Make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker and Cream Cheese Mixture
Start by giving your slow cooker a generous spray with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is silky smooth. This creamy blend is going to infuse your casserole with richness and depth.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
Begin layering half of the frozen pierogies evenly on the bottom of the slow cooker. Next, add half of the sliced kielbasa and sprinkle the diced onion over the top. Spoon half of the cream cheese mixture over these layers, spreading gently to cover. Repeat this exact pattern with the remaining pierogies, kielbasa, onion, and cream cheese mixture to create a perfectly structured casserole.
Step 3: Top and Cook
Once your layers are set, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the entire surface. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or opt for a quicker 2 to 3 hours on high. You’ll know it’s ready when everything is heated through, bubbly around the edges, and the cheese topping has beautifully melted and melded with the layers beneath.
Step 4: Final Touch and Serve
Before serving, gently stir the casserole to marry the layers together without breaking the pierogies too much. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top to add a lovely burst of color and a fresh flavor contrast. This step makes your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe look inviting and taste even better.
How to Serve Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is a classic, but don’t hesitate to add a dollop of sour cream or a few crispy fried onions for an extra touch of texture and creaminess. These simple additions elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise, making your serving look and taste like it came from a cozy restaurant.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even sautéed greens like kale or spinach for a well-rounded meal. The freshness of these sides contrasts perfectly with the creamy, cheesy layers of the casserole, creating a balanced plate that will satisfy any appetite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing presentation, transfer your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe to a rustic baking dish and pop it under the broiler for 3 to 5 minutes to crisp up the top layer of cheese. Alternatively, serve portions in mini cast iron skillets or deep dishes for a homey, charming touch that sparks joy in every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to mingle, so be sure to store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cover tightly to keep moisture in and prevent the casserole from drying out.
Freezing
If you want to prep in advance, this dish freezes beautifully. Place cooled, leftover portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, labeling them to enjoy within 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual servings gently in the microwave or pop the entire casserole into a 350°F oven, covered with foil, until heated through. For the best experience, sprinkle a little more cheddar on top and broil briefly to revive the lovely cheesy crust.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen in the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh pierogies will cook faster, so reduce the slow cooker time slightly and keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. They’ll add a tender texture that’s just as delicious.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the kielbasa with plant-based sausage or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers to keep the savory depth while making it vegetarian-friendly.
Can I add vegetables to this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe?
Definitely. Adding a handful of fresh spinach or frozen peas during the last hour of cooking gives a nice pop of color and nutrition without altering the classic flavor you love.
What’s the best way to get a crispy top on this casserole?
After cooking in the slow cooker, transfer the casserole to a baking dish and broil it for 3 to 5 minutes with extra shredded cheddar on top. That golden crust adds wonderful texture and visual appeal.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for a party?
Yes, you can assemble everything the day before and refrigerate it. Just make sure to add the cheese topping and cook according to the recipe when you’re ready to serve. It’s a great way to save time.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe is the perfect comfort food for any occasion, combining familiar flavors in a way that’s both effortless and irresistibly delicious. I can’t encourage you enough to try it—you’ll quickly discover why it became such a beloved go-to meal in my kitchen. Once you do, it’s sure to find a cozy spot in yours too.
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Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a comforting, easy-to-make slow cooker meal featuring layers of frozen potato and cheddar pierogies, savory kielbasa sausage, and a creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for busy days, it combines rich flavors with simple preparation and a melty cheese topping, making it an ideal American comfort food dish.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 (16 oz) boxes frozen potato and cheddar pierogies
- 14 oz kielbasa sausage, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, diced
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ cup milk
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the slow cooker: Spray the inside of a slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Make the creamy cheese mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix until smooth and well blended to create a flavorful sauce layer.
- Layer the casserole: Place half of the frozen pierogies evenly in the slow cooker. Top with half of the sliced kielbasa and diced onion. Spoon half of the cream cheese mixture over this layer.
- Repeat layering: Add the remaining pierogies, kielbasa, and onion in the same order, then top with the rest of the cream cheese mixture.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the entire casserole.
- Cook the casserole: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the casserole is hot and bubbly throughout.
- Finish and serve: Gently stir the casserole before serving to combine layers slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a fresh, colorful touch.
Notes
- Add a handful of spinach or frozen peas during the last hour of cooking for extra color and nutrition.
- For a crispier topping, transfer cooked casserole to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil for 3–5 minutes before serving.
