Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Kielbasa

Introduction

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Kielbasa is the ultimate comfort food, combining the beloved flavors of traditional pierogi with the convenience of a slow cooker. Tender pierogi are layered with savory kielbasa, caramelized onions, and gooey melted cheese, resulting in a rich, creamy casserole that’s both hearty and satisfying. It’s the perfect dish for those busy nights when you need something filling, or for a cozy family gathering that’s sure to please everyone.

I remember the first time I made this dish—it was such a hit! The kitchen was filled with the comforting aroma of kielbasa and cheese, and everyone was so eager to dive in. What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. You simply throw everything into the crockpot, let it do its magic, and hours later, you’re greeted with a warm, delicious meal that’s ready to serve.

This casserole is ideal for those who love the combination of soft pierogi, savory meat, and creamy cheese, all coming together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re a pierogi enthusiast or just looking to try something new, this slow-cooked casserole is bound to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

Perfect for:

• Family dinners
• Potlucks
• Comfort food cravings
• Holiday meals
• Slow cooker enthusiasts

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Kielbasa

Here’s why Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Kielbasa is sure to win you over:

• Hearty and Filling: With layers of pierogi, kielbasa, and cheese, this casserole is a satisfying meal that’s great for feeding a crowd.
• Easy and Convenient: Cooking this dish in a slow cooker means less time spent in the kitchen, making it perfect for busy days.
• Flavorful: The smoky kielbasa, sautéed onions, and gooey melted cheese combine with the pierogi to create a rich, delicious flavor in every bite.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the seasonings, or swap ingredients to suit your taste (like using different types of cheese or vegetables).
• One-Pot Meal: This casserole is simple to prepare and clean up afterward, as it’s all made in the slow cooker.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4 hours on low or 2 hours on high
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 25g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Kielbasa:

• 1 package (16 oz) frozen pierogi (cheese or potato-filled)
• 1 lb kielbasa, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted (optional, for extra flavor)

Ingredient Highlights

• Frozen Pierogi: Using frozen pierogi makes this recipe incredibly convenient. Choose a cheese or potato-filled variety, or mix both for variety.
• Kielbasa: Kielbasa adds a smoky, savory flavor to the casserole, complementing the pierogi beautifully.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and depth to the casserole, binding the ingredients together in a luscious sauce.
• Cheddar Cheese: The melted cheddar cheese creates a gooey, comforting layer that pairs perfectly with the pierogi and kielbasa.
• Sour Cream: Sour cream adds a tangy richness that balances the richness of the other ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Kielbasa:

Prepare the Ingredients:

1. Prepare the Kielbasa: Slice the kielbasa into ¼-inch thick rounds. If you prefer a crisper texture, you can sauté the kielbasa in a pan for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned, though this step is optional.
2. Sauté the Onion (Optional): In a skillet, sauté the diced onion in a little butter or oil over medium heat until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step enhances the flavor but can be skipped for convenience.
3. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.

Assemble the Casserole:

4. Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot: Grease the bottom and sides of your crockpot with a little butter or cooking spray. Begin by layering the frozen pierogi at the bottom of the crockpot.
5. Add Kielbasa and Onion: Layer half of the sliced kielbasa on top of the pierogi, followed by half of the sautéed onion (if using).
6. Spread the Sauce: Pour half of the cream soup mixture over the kielbasa and onion layer. Then, sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers, starting with the remaining pierogi, followed by the rest of the kielbasa, onion, and cream soup mixture. Finish with the remaining cheddar cheese.
8. Top with Butter (Optional): Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the casserole for added flavor and richness.

Cook the Casserole:

9. Slow Cook: Cover and cook the casserole on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours. The casserole is done when the pierogi are tender, the cheese is melted, and the sauce is bubbling.
10. Serve: Once the casserole is cooked, stir it gently to combine the layers before serving.

How to Serve Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Kielbasa

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Kielbasa is a filling and flavorful dish that can be served in many ways:

• As a Main Dish: Serve this casserole as the centerpiece of a meal, paired with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete dinner.
• With Bread: Serve with crusty bread or rolls to soak up any extra sauce.
• For Potlucks: This casserole is perfect for potlucks and gatherings, as it’s easy to transport and can feed a crowd.
• With a Dollop of Sour Cream: Add a dollop of sour cream on top of each serving for extra richness and flavor.
• Pair with Pickles or Sauerkraut: The tanginess of pickles or sauerkraut complements the richness of the casserole beautifully.

Additional Tips for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Kielbasa

Here are some tips to ensure your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Kielbasa turns out perfectly:

• Use Frozen Pierogi: Using frozen pierogi helps cut down on prep time and ensures they cook perfectly in the slow cooker.
• Customize the Cheese: Feel free to use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack, for a different flavor profile.
• Add More Vegetables: You can add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the casserole to increase the vegetable content.
• Brown the Kielbasa: While not necessary, browning the kielbasa before adding it to the casserole can enhance its flavor and texture.
• Adjust the Seasonings: Taste the sauce before assembling the casserole and adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you prefer more garlic or spice, feel free to add more garlic powder or paprika.

Recipe Variations for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Kielbasa

Here are 10 variations you can try for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Kielbasa:

• Spicy Kielbasa: Use a spicy kielbasa or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the kielbasa and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
• Add Sauerkraut: Layer some sauerkraut in with the pierogi for a tangy contrast to the creamy sauce.
• Bacon and Onion: Replace the kielbasa with crispy bacon for a smoky twist.
• Creamy Alfredo Sauce: Swap the cream of mushroom soup for a jar of creamy Alfredo sauce for a richer, creamier casserole.
• Ranch Pierogi Casserole: Add a packet of ranch seasoning mix to the cream soup mixture for a tangy, herby flavor.
• Cheesy Pierogi Casserole: Use a combination of cheeses, such as mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan, for an even cheesier casserole.
• Add Caramelized Onions: For a deeper onion flavor, caramelize the onions before adding them to the casserole.
• Mushroom Pierogi Version: Use mushroom-filled pierogi for a more earthy flavor and pair with sautéed mushrooms in the casserole.
• Slow Cooker Pierogi Casserole with Ham: Substitute kielbasa with ham for a different meat option.

Freezing and Storage for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Kielbasa

• Freezing: You can freeze leftovers by allowing the casserole to cool completely, then transferring it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Special Equipment for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Kielbasa

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Kielbasa easier:

• Slow Cooker: A 4-6 quart slow cooker is ideal for this recipe.
• Skillet (Optional): For browning the kielbasa and onions before adding them to the casserole.
• Grater: Use a box grater or food processor to shred the cheese if needed.
• Spatula or Spoon: For stirring the casserole and serving.

Frequently Asked Questions for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Kielbasa

1. Can I use fresh pierogi instead of frozen?
   Yes, you can use fresh pierogi, but the cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Cook it the next day as directed.
3. Can I make this gluten-free?
   If you use gluten-free pierogi and check that the cream soup and other ingredients are gluten-free, this casserole can be made gluten-free.
4. Can I substitute the kielbasa with another type of sausage?
   Yes, feel free to use other types of sausage such as turkey sausage, Italian sausage, or smoked sausage.
5. Can I double this recipe?
   Yes, you can double the recipe if you have a large enough slow cooker. Just be sure to increase the cooking time slightly.

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Conclusion

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Kielbasa is the ultimate comfort food that combines the rich flavors of traditional pierogi with the ease of slow cooking. With tender pierogi, smoky kielbasa, a creamy sauce, and melted cheese, this casserole offers a hearty and flavorful meal that’s sure to please everyone. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully while you go about your day.

This dish is incredibly versatile—you can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, spices, or even swapping the kielbasa for another type of sausage. It’s perfect for feeding a large group, making it an excellent choice for family dinners, potlucks, or any special occasion.

Whether you’re looking for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal or a dish to wow your guests, Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Kielbasa is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Easy to make, comforting, and delicious, it will soon become a staple in your recipe rotation.

I’d love to see how your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Kielbasa turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!