If you’re craving a dish that’s cozy, comforting, and bursting with flavor, let me introduce you to the magic of this Crock Pot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy classic pierogies with a rich, cheesy sauce paired with savory kielbasa, all slow-cooked to perfection so every bite feels like a warm hug. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a hearty, soul-satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy days or lazy weekends when you want dinner done with minimal effort and maximum taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is carefully chosen to create that ideal balance of creamy, savory, and hearty flavors. The combination is simple yet essential, with each element lending its own touch of texture, taste, and color to the casserole.
- Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies: These are the star of the dish, providing a tender, cheesy base that melts beautifully in the crockpot.
- Chicken broth: Acts as the flavorful liquid to keep everything moist and create a luscious sauce as it cooks.
- Cream cheese: Adds creamy richness that blends perfectly into the cooking juices for a velvety texture.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Delivers a sharp, melty contrast that enhances the overall cheesiness.
- Kielbasa: The smoky, savory sausage slices add depth and a satisfying bite to every forkful.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to bring out all the flavors without overwhelming the dish.
How to Make Crock Pot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by slicing the kielbasa into bite-sized pieces so each serving has a bit of that smoky, meaty goodness. Cut the cream cheese into small cubes to help it melt evenly throughout the casserole.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
Layer the pierogies at the bottom of your crockpot, creating a cozy bed for the other ingredients. Scatter the kielbasa slices over the pierogies, then evenly distribute the cream cheese cubes and top with shredded cheddar. Pour the chicken broth gently over everything to ensure the casserole stays moist and flavorful. Lastly, sprinkle with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
Step 3: Cook the Casserole
Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low for about 6 hours. Stir gently once or twice during cooking to help the cheeses melt and distribute evenly, creating a creamy, dreamy sauce that coats the pierogies and kielbasa.
Step 4: Serve Your Crock Pot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
Check that the pierogies are tender and the cheese has melted fully into a warm sauce. Serve straight from the crockpot for an easy meal that’s messy in all the right ways.
How to Serve Crock Pot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this comforting casserole, try a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or green onions for a hint of brightness and color. A dollop of sour cream on top adds a tangy creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the rich cheese sauce.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty casserole with a crisp green salad or some steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans to add freshness and balance the richness. A crusty bread roll is also perfect for mopping up every last bit of that cheesy broth.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing presentation, serve the Crock Pot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe buffet-style and encourage guests to add their favorite garnishes at the table. You can also serve it in individual ramekins for a personalized touch that feels special but effortless.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly to preserve the creamy texture and savory flavors.
Freezing
If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just keep in mind the texture of pierogies may soften a bit after freezing, but the flavor will still be fantastic.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a microwave or oven until hot throughout. Adding a splash of chicken broth or a little extra shredded cheese when reheating can help restore that fresh-from-the-crockpot creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use frozen pierogies for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen pierogies work perfectly and thaw as they cook in the crockpot, soaking up all those delicious broth and cheese flavors.
What type of kielbasa is best for this casserole?
Traditional smoked kielbasa is ideal because its smoky, savory flavor pairs wonderfully with the creamy pierogies and cheese. Feel free to use mild or spicy varieties depending on your preference.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the kielbasa and substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth. You might want to add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions to build extra flavor.
Is it necessary to stir the casserole during cooking?
While not absolutely necessary, stirring once or twice helps the cream cheese and shredded cheddar melt evenly, preventing clumps and ensuring a smooth, creamy sauce.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or swap the regular kielbasa for a spicy version. You can also sprinkle diced jalapeños over the top right before serving for an added kick.
Final Thoughts
This Crock Pot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe is one of those comforting, no-fuss dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, yet delivers big on flavor, making it a perfect go-to recipe for family dinners or casual gatherings. Give it a whirl—you’re going to love how the simple ingredients come together to create something truly special and satisfying.
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Crock Pot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Crock Pot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa combines tender pierogies, savory kielbasa, and creamy cheese sauce cooked slowly in a crockpot, resulting in a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for an easy family meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 boxes Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies (regular or mini; mini preferred)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese (cut into small cubes)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 lb kielbasa (sliced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Slice the kielbasa into bite-sized pieces and cut the cream cheese into small cubes. This preparation ensures even cooking and melting during the slow cooking process.
- Assemble the Casserole: Place the pierogies in the crockpot, then layer the sliced kielbasa over them. Next, scatter the cream cheese cubes and shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Pour chicken broth over all ingredients and season with salt and pepper to taste to enhance the flavors.
- Cook the Casserole: Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6 hours. During cooking, gently stir once or twice to help the cheeses melt evenly and create a creamy sauce.
- Serve the Casserole: Check that the pierogies are tender and the cheese is melted into a rich sauce. Serve hot directly from the crockpot for a delicious and warming meal.
Notes
- Mini pierogies are preferred as they cook more evenly and absorb the flavors better.
- If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth or water can be substituted but will alter the taste slightly.
- Stirring occasionally helps prevent the cheese from clumping and promotes a creamy texture.
- Adjust salt and pepper to your personal preference as the kielbasa and cheeses may already add saltiness.
