Imagine coming home to the comforting aroma of tender pierogies, savory kielbasa, and creamy, cheesy goodness all melded together in one pot. Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is that dream meal, capturing the hearty flavors of Eastern European cooking in a way that’s easy and accessible for busy days. This dish takes pierogies, which are often pan-fried or boiled, and gives them a slow-cooked twist that infuses each bite with flavor. With only a few ingredients and the convenience of a slow cooker, this casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a meal-prepped weeknight treat.
Why We Love This Recipe
There’s something magical about the combination of pierogies, cheese, and kielbasa that just screams comfort. Here’s why we’re big fans of this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole:
- Hands-Off Cooking: The beauty of the crockpot is that it does most of the work for you. Just throw in the ingredients, set the timer, and let it work its magic while you focus on other tasks.
- Minimal Ingredients: With just a handful of ingredients like frozen pierogies, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar, you get a dish bursting with flavor without a long grocery list.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This casserole is a hit with kids and adults alike, thanks to the creamy, cheesy texture and the savory kielbasa. It’s also a great dish to bring to gatherings, as it stays warm and keeps its flavor well.
- Comforting & Filling: The combination of pierogies and kielbasa makes for a hearty, satisfying meal that will keep everyone full and happy.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:
- Three packages of Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies: These frozen pierogies bring a delicious cheddar flavor and a tender dough shell to the dish.
- Four cups of chicken broth: This adds a layer of flavor and keeps the pierogies moist and tender as they cook.
- One 8-ounce block of cream cheese: For that creamy, tangy base.
- One cup of shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a cheesy richness and extra flavor.
- One pound of kielbasa, sliced: The savory, smoky flavor of kielbasa complements the pierogies and cheese perfectly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: These seasonings bring everything together and can be adjusted based on preference.
How to Make This Recipe
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delicious Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa:
- Prepare the Crockpot: Set your crockpot to low heat and make sure it’s ready to go.
- Layer the Ingredients: Start by layering the sliced kielbasa on the bottom of the crockpot. This allows the flavors of the kielbasa to permeate the pierogies and the rest of the dish as it cooks.
- Add the Pierogies: Place the pierogies on top of the kielbasa. It’s okay if they overlap a bit, as they will cook evenly in the crockpot.
- Pour in the Chicken Broth: Pour the chicken broth over the pierogies and kielbasa, ensuring they are mostly submerged. This keeps everything moist and prevents the ingredients from sticking.
- Add Cream Cheese and Cheddar: Cube the cream cheese and sprinkle it evenly over the pierogies. Add the shredded cheddar cheese on top. As it cooks, the cheese will melt and create a creamy sauce that coats the pierogies and kielbasa.
- Season: Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, the kielbasa and cheese already add salt, so you might want to go easy and adjust after cooking if needed.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the pierogies are tender and the cheese is fully melted into a creamy sauce.
- Serve: Once cooked, give everything a gentle stir and serve hot.
Success Tips
- Cut Cream Cheese into Small Cubes: Cutting the cream cheese into smaller cubes helps it melt more evenly throughout the casserole, ensuring every bite is as creamy as possible.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking the pierogies, as they may start to break down if cooked too long. After 4 hours, check for doneness, and if they’re tender, it’s time to serve.
- Add Extra Cheese for a Cheesier Casserole: If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to sprinkle a bit of extra cheddar on top before serving for an added layer of flavor.
- Use a Non-Stick Cooking Spray: Spray the crockpot with a non-stick cooking spray before adding the ingredients to make cleanup easier and prevent sticking.
Storage
If you have leftovers (which is rare because this dish is so delicious!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, you can reheat in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through.
- Freeze: You can also freeze this casserole in individual portions for easy future meals. Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until hot.
- Reheat Gently: If reheating in the microwave, go for short intervals and stir in between to keep the cheese from breaking.
Notes
- Adjust the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. A bit of mozzarella or gouda can add a unique twist.
- Add Vegetables: If you’d like to make this casserole more wholesome, add some chopped bell peppers or onions along with the kielbasa.
- Spice It Up: For a bit of a kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
Nutrition
While this is a comfort food recipe and best enjoyed in moderation, here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional information per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 500-600 kcal
- Protein: 20-25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 45-50 grams
- Fat: 25-30 grams
- Fiber: 2-3 grams
This nutritional breakdown may vary depending on specific brands of ingredients and exact measurements used.
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of pierogies? Absolutely! Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies add a great cheesy flavor, but other varieties like potato and onion or bacon pierogies will also work well in this recipe.
2. Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of a crockpot? Yes, you can! Simply cook the kielbasa in a large skillet, then add the pierogies, chicken broth, cream cheese, and shredded cheese. Cover and simmer on low for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pierogies are tender and the sauce is creamy.
3. How can I make this casserole more indulgent? For a richer version, use heavy cream instead of some of the chicken broth, or add a bit more cheddar cheese. You can also top the casserole with crispy fried onions for added crunch.
4. What other toppings go well with this casserole? Sour cream, chives, or even a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits make excellent toppings and add extra texture and flavor.
5. How can I make this dish gluten-free? If you can find gluten-free pierogies, the rest of the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it easy to adapt for gluten-sensitive diets.
Conclusion
Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is one of those dishes that brings joy to the table with every bite. It’s rich, creamy, and full of savory flavor, making it a perfect dinner for cozy nights at home or a crowd-pleasing option for gatherings. With minimal prep, simple ingredients, and a straightforward cooking process, it’s a dish that combines the best of comfort food with the convenience of slow cooking. Enjoy this warm, hearty casserole and let it bring a little more comfort and joy to your weeknight meals!