There’s something incredibly comforting about combining hearty ingredients into one easy, flavorful dish, and the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe delivers exactly that. Imagine tender, pillowy pierogi nestled alongside smoky kielbasa, all bathed in a creamy mushroom sauce and topped with melted cheddar cheese. This casserole transforms simple, wholesome ingredients into a homey meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s as effortless to make as it is satisfying to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, but each one plays a crucial role in building the rich, comforting flavors and delightful textures of this casserole. From savory kielbasa to creamy soup, every component works together to create a perfectly balanced dish.
- 12 oz frozen pierogi: Choose your favorite filling for a personalized touch—potato and cheese are classic, but feel free to get creative.
- 14 oz smoked kielbasa, sliced: Adds a smoky, meaty depth that complements the other flavors beautifully.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Sautéed until translucent, it brings sweetness and a subtle bite that rounds out the dish.
- 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup: Acts as a luscious binder and brings a creamy, earthy element to the casserole.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts on top for that irresistibly cheesy, gooey finish.
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika: These pantry staples season the dish perfectly, adding layers of flavor and a touch of smoky warmth.
How to Make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Onion
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and cooking the diced onion until it becomes translucent. This step softens the onion and enhances its sweetness, which adds a wonderful base flavor for the casserole that shines through every bite.
Step 2: Layer the First Half of Ingredients
In your crockpot, place half of the frozen pierogi evenly on the bottom. Next, add half of the sliced kielbasa and sautéed onions on top. This layering ensures that each serving gets a delicious mix of textures and flavors in every spoonful.
Step 3: Add Creamy Goodness
Spread half of the cream of mushroom soup over your layered pierogi and kielbasa. The soup adds moisture and a velvety texture that pulls all the ingredients together into a luscious casserole.
Step 4: Season Well
Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika evenly over the layers. These simple seasonings pack a punch, enhancing the umami from the mushrooms and the smokiness from the kielbasa, creating a beautifully balanced taste.
Step 5: Repeat Layering
Repeat the process by layering the remaining frozen pierogi, kielbasa, sautéed onions, and cream of mushroom soup, followed by the same seasoning mix. Doubling up the layers intensifies the flavor and makes the casserole hearty enough for a filling meal.
Step 6: Cook Low and Slow
Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. This slow cooking method allows the pierogi to become tender, the flavors to meld together, and the kielbasa to infuse the entire dish with its smoky richness.
Step 7: Finish with Cheese
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Let it melt and bubble, creating a golden, cheesy crust that will make your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe truly unforgettable.
How to Serve Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like chopped green onions or a dollop of sour cream add brightness and a cool, creamy contrast to the warm, hearty casserole. A sprinkle of fresh parsley also adds a lovely pop of color and freshness.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands beautifully on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli can lighten the meal and add a fresh crunch that complements the rich, saucy pierogi dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in mini casserole dishes or ramekins, topped with extra cheese or even a drizzle of hot sauce for a little kick. It’s perfect for entertaining or a cozy dinner at home with a touch of flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the casserole to cool completely, then store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish reheats well, making it a convenient option for busy weekday meals.
Freezing
Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe freezes beautifully. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Adding a sprinkle of extra cheese on top and broiling for a couple of minutes can help revive that fresh, melty texture you love from the original bake.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pierogi instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh pierogi will work just as well and may even reduce cooking time slightly. Just be sure to adjust the crockpot time accordingly, starting to check for tenderness around 5 hours in.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer, you can swap in cream of chicken or cream of celery soup, or make your own mushroom sauce from scratch. Each option will change the flavor slightly but will keep the casserole creamy and delicious.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes! Simply omit the kielbasa and add extra mushrooms, sautéed vegetables, or a plant-based sausage alternative. The creamy soup and pierogi still make this dish hearty and satisfying.
Can I prep this casserole the night before?
You sure can! Assemble all the layers in your crockpot insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. The next day, just pop it on low and cook as directed—it’s a fantastic time-saver.
What type of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is classic and melts beautifully, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend to suit your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe, it’s bound to become a staple in your meal rotation. Its effortless layering, slow-cooked flavors, and cheesy finish make it a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that feels like a celebration of cozy home cooking. So grab that crockpot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor a warm, satisfying meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
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Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and hearty Crockpot Pierogi Casserole layered with smoky kielbasa, sautéed onions, creamy mushroom soup, and melted cheddar cheese. This simple slow cooker recipe is perfect for an easy, flavorful meal with minimal prep and hands-off cooking.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 oz frozen pierogi (your favorite filling)
- 14 oz smoked kielbasa, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
- Paprika, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté the Onion: Heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 5-7 minutes, to bring out its natural sweetness and flavor for the casserole.
- Layer Pierogi and Kielbasa: In the bottom of the crockpot, arrange half of the frozen pierogi in an even layer. Top with half of the sliced smoked kielbasa and all of the sautéed onions.
- Add Cream of Mushroom Soup: Spread half of the cream of mushroom soup evenly over the layered ingredients to add creaminess and moisture.
- Season the Layers: Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to your taste over the layers for balanced seasoning.
- Repeat Layering: Repeat the layering process by adding the remaining frozen pierogi, kielbasa slices, cream of mushroom soup, and seasoning evenly on top.
- Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours. The slow cooking melds the flavors perfectly and cooks the pierogi through.
- Add Cheese: In the final 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and allow it to melt thoroughly before serving.
Notes
- Use your favorite pierogi filling such as potato and cheese, sauerkraut, or meat.
- If you prefer, you can sauté the kielbasa slices briefly to add a bit of crispness before layering.
- Check seasoning before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight before slow cooking the next day.
- For a thicker top crust, broil the finished casserole with cheese for 2–3 minutes after slow cooking, watching closely to prevent burning.
