Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa – Easy & Cheesy Comfort Food

There is something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole, especially when it requires minimal effort and fills the house with irresistible aromas. This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the definition of an easy, crowd-pleasing meal. With layers of tender pierogies, smoky kielbasa, creamy cheese sauce, and melty cheddar cheese, every bite is rich and satisfying. This dish brings together classic flavors that feel like a big hug on a plate, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals.

One of the best things about this recipe is its set-it-and-forget-it approach. With just a few simple ingredients and your slow cooker doing most of the work, you can have a comforting meal ready with almost no hands-on cooking. Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, this dish is foolproof and always turns out delicious.

Growing up, pierogies were a staple in my family’s kitchen. My grandmother would spend hours making them from scratch, filling them with creamy mashed potatoes and sharp cheddar cheese. While I love the nostalgia of homemade pierogies, I also appreciate a quick and easy version for busy days. That’s why this crockpot casserole is one of my go-to recipes. It brings all the flavors of traditional pierogies without the time-consuming prep work.

If you’re looking for a rich, hearty, and satisfying meal that practically cooks itself, this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is for you. It’s the kind of dish that brings the whole family together at the dinner table, making it a recipe worth keeping in your rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this easy crockpot casserole, but here are the highlights:

1. Effortless to Make

The beauty of this recipe is that the slow cooker does all the work. Simply layer the ingredients, set the crockpot, and let it cook while you go about your day. There’s no need for complicated techniques or constant monitoring, making this dish perfect for beginners and busy home cooks alike.

2. Packed with Comforting Flavors

The combination of tender pierogies, creamy cheese sauce, and smoky kielbasa creates a rich and hearty meal that tastes like classic comfort food. The melted cheddar cheese on top adds the perfect finishing touch, making each bite irresistibly gooey and delicious.

3. Family-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing

This dish is a hit with both kids and adults. The mild, creamy flavors appeal to younger eaters, while the savory kielbasa and cheesy goodness make it satisfying for everyone. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a potluck gathering, this casserole is guaranteed to be a favorite.

4. Easily Customizable

One of the best things about this recipe is that you can adjust it to suit your taste and dietary needs. Want to add vegetables? Toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or caramelized onions. Need a vegetarian version? Swap the kielbasa for plant-based sausage. The options are endless, making this a versatile meal for any occasion.

5. Great for Meal Prep

This casserole stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for leftovers. You can make a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it for several meals, cutting down on cooking time and ensuring you always have something delicious ready to eat.

Health Benefits

While this dish is rich and indulgent, it also has some surprising nutritional benefits:

1. Protein-Packed Kielbasa

Kielbasa, a smoked Polish sausage, is a great source of protein. It helps keep you full and provides essential nutrients like B vitamins and iron. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use turkey kielbasa, which has less fat while still delivering great flavor.

2. Energy-Boosting Carbohydrates

Pierogies are primarily made of potatoes and flour, providing a good balance of carbohydrates for energy. This makes the dish a great option for fueling up after a long day.

3. Calcium-Rich Cheese

The cheddar and cream cheese in this recipe add a dose of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth. If you want to make it healthier, you can use reduced-fat cheese without sacrificing too much creaminess.

4. Option to Add Vegetables

Adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can boost the fiber and nutrient content of this dish. Vegetables add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants while making the meal even more flavorful.

5. Controllable Sodium Levels

By using low-sodium chicken broth and kielbasa, you can control the salt content of this dish. Many store-bought versions of these ingredients can be high in sodium, so reading labels or opting for homemade broth is a great way to keep it healthier.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 3-4 hours on high or 6 hours on low
• Total Time: 3 to 6 hours (depending on your crockpot setting)

Servings

This recipe makes 6 to 8 servings, depending on portion sizes.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450-500 kcal
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 22g
• Calcium: 15% DV
• Iron: 10% DV

Ingredients List

To make this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa, you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 (16-ounce) package of frozen cheddar pierogies
• 1 pound kielbasa, sliced into rounds
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ cup diced onions (for extra flavor)
• 1 cup fresh spinach (for added greens)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for a deeper flavor)

These ingredients come together to create a rich, creamy, and cheesy dish that is both hearty and satisfying.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

This recipe is incredibly easy to make, thanks to the slow cooker. Follow these simple steps for a perfect casserole every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Before you start, gather all your ingredients. Slice the kielbasa into ¼-inch rounds. If you’re using optional add-ins like onions or spinach, chop them now.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot

Pour 2 cups of chicken broth into the crockpot. Add the frozen pierogies in an even layer. Next, scatter the sliced kielbasa over the top. If you’re using onions or spinach, add them now.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Cheese

Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper over the ingredients. Then, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Step 4: Cook on Low or High

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The pierogies should be tender, and the kielbasa should be warmed through.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Sauce

About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, heat cream cheese with 1 cup of chicken broth on the stovetop or in the microwave until softened. Stir until smooth.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Pour the cream cheese mixture into the crockpot and stir gently to coat all the ingredients.

Step 7: Add Final Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top. Cover and cook for another 30 minutes on low, allowing the cheese to melt.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot, optionally garnished with sliced green onions or fresh parsley for extra flavor.

How to Serve

This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is already packed with comforting flavors, but the right presentation and pairings can take it to the next level. Whether you’re serving this for a cozy family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, here are some delicious ways to enjoy it.

1. Serve It as a Standalone Meal

This dish is hearty and filling on its own, so you don’t need much to complete the meal. Simply scoop a generous portion onto a plate or into a bowl and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness.

2. Garnish for Extra Flavor

Enhance the flavor and presentation with a few simple toppings:

• Fresh Parsley or Green Onions: Adds a pop of color and a fresh contrast to the rich dish.
• A Dollop of Sour Cream: Complements the cheesy sauce with a slight tang.
• Crispy Fried Onions or Bacon Bits: Adds crunch and a smoky flavor.

3. Serve with a Light Side Salad

Since the casserole is rich and creamy, a light, refreshing salad helps balance the meal. Try a simple arugula or spinach salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the heaviness.

4. Pair with Bread for Extra Comfort

If you’re looking for something to soak up the cheesy sauce, serve this casserole with:

• Garlic bread for a flavorful crunch
• Dinner rolls for a soft and buttery option
• Crusty baguette slices to scoop up every last bit of sauce

5. Add Some Roasted Vegetables

To add extra nutrition, serve the casserole alongside roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus. The slightly caramelized veggies contrast beautifully with the creamy, cheesy pierogies.

6. Make It a Party Dish

If you’re serving this casserole at a gathering, consider keeping it warm in the crockpot on the “keep warm” setting. Provide small bowls or appetizer plates so guests can help themselves easily.

Pairing Suggestions

The rich, cheesy flavors of this casserole pair well with a variety of side dishes, drinks, and complementary flavors. Here are some excellent pairing options to create a well-rounded meal.

1. Side Dishes to Complement the Casserole

• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted broccoli, cauliflower, or green beans adds freshness and crunch.
• Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber and dill salad with a light vinaigrette balances the creaminess.
• Sautéed Cabbage: Since this dish has a Polish-inspired feel, a side of buttery sautéed cabbage pairs wonderfully.

2. Refreshing Drinks to Serve

• Iced Tea or Lemonade: A slightly tangy drink cuts through the richness of the casserole.
• Sparkling Water with Citrus Slices: Keeps the meal feeling light and refreshing.
• Apple Cider (Hot or Cold): If you’re making this in the fall, a glass of apple cider complements the smoky kielbasa.

3. Desserts That Pair Well

• Apple Crisp or Baked Apples: A warm apple dessert with cinnamon pairs well with the cheesy, savory casserole.
• Cheesecake or Vanilla Pudding: The creamy textures blend well but aren’t too overpowering.
• Chocolate Mousse or Brownies: A little bit of chocolate adds a sweet contrast to the meal.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the best things about this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is that it stores well, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your casserole so it tastes just as delicious the next day.

Refrigeration Instructions

• Storage Time: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Best Way to Store: Let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to a storage container.

Freezing Instructions

• Can You Freeze This Casserole? Yes! This dish freezes well, making it a great make-ahead meal.
• How to Freeze:
  1. Let the casserole cool completely.
  2. Transfer individual portions or the whole casserole to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
  3. Label the container with the date.
  4. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions

• From the Fridge:
  • Microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.
• From the Freezer:
  • Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this is a foolproof recipe, here are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

1. Using Too Much Liquid

Adding too much chicken broth can make the casserole watery. Stick to the recommended 3 cups and add more only if needed.

2. Overcooking the Pierogies

Cooking the casserole for too long can cause the pierogies to become mushy. If using the high setting, cook for 3-4 hours max; for low, stick to 6 hours.

3. Skipping the Cream Cheese Mixture Step

Adding softened cream cheese separately ensures a smooth, creamy texture. If you add it directly without melting, it may clump.

4. Not Stirring Before the Final 30 Minutes

To evenly distribute the cheese sauce, give the casserole a good stir before adding the final layer of cheddar cheese.

Pro Tips for the Best Crockpot Pierogi Casserole

1. Brown the Kielbasa First

For extra flavor, sauté the kielbasa in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot. This creates crispy, caramelized edges.

2. Use a Crockpot Liner for Easy Cleanup

A slow cooker liner makes cleanup effortless. Just toss it after cooking, and your crockpot stays mess-free.

3. Add Extra Vegetables for Nutrition

Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach mix in beautifully and boost the dish’s nutritional value.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use Fresh Pierogies Instead of Frozen?

Yes! If using fresh pierogies, reduce the cooking time by 1-2 hours so they don’t overcook.

2. Can I Make This in the Oven Instead?

Absolutely! Bake at 375°F for 30-40 minutes, covered with foil, then uncover for the last 10 minutes.

3. Can I Use Another Type of Sausage?

Yes! Chicken sausage, turkey kielbasa, or even vegetarian sausage work well as substitutes.

4. Can I Make This Dairy-Free?

Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese, shredded cheese, and plant-based pierogies.

This recipe is easy, flexible, and always a hit. Try it today and enjoy a warm, cheesy, comforting meal!

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