Hearty Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Recipe

Cozy & Rustic Hearty Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe

Comfort food reaches new heights with this hearty crockpot pierogi casserole with kielbasa that promises to warm every corner of your soul.

Layers of potato-filled dumplings mingle with smoky, robust sausage in a slow-cooked symphony of flavors.

Creamy cheese and caramelized onions create a rich backdrop for this Polish-inspired dish that feels like a hug on a plate.

Each bite delivers a perfect balance of textures and savory notes that dance across your palate.

Crispy edges blend seamlessly with tender pierogi, creating a delightful contrast in every mouthful.

The kielbasa adds a smoky depth that elevates this casserole from simple to spectacular.

Prepare to fall in love with a recipe that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal your family will request again and again.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 4 hours

Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes

Calories: 570 kcal

Servings: 7

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Ingredient List

For Base Ingredients:
  • Frozen Pierogies: Hearty potato-filled dumplings that form the comforting foundation of this one-pot meal, choose high-quality brands with robust filling.
  • Kielbasa: Classic Polish sausage that adds smoky, rich protein and deep flavor, select fresh or pre-cooked varieties.
  • Diced Onions: Provides aromatic sweetness and texture, opt for yellow onions for best caramelization.
For Creamy Sauce Components:
  • Cream of Mushroom Soup: Creates luxurious, velvety base that binds ingredients together, select low-sodium version for better flavor control.
  • Sour Cream: Adds tangy richness and silky texture, select full-fat version for maximum creaminess.
  • Chicken Broth: Enhances moisture and deepens overall flavor profile, choose low-sodium stock for balanced seasoning.
For Seasoning and Topping:
  • Garlic Powder: Delivers subtle, warm background note without overwhelming other flavors.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential for balanced seasoning, use freshly ground black pepper for robust taste.
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully, creating golden, irresistible topping with sharp, tangy undertones.
  • Chives or Green Onions: Fresh garnish that adds bright color and mild onion kick, choose crisp, vibrant herbs.

Store Crockpot Pierogi Casserole and Reheat as Needed

  • Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, ensuring flavors remain fresh and vibrant.
  • Portion casserole into freezer-safe containers, seal tightly, and freeze for convenient future meals lasting up to 2 months.
  • Warm refrigerated portions in microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring midway to distribute heat evenly and maintain original texture.
  • Assemble entire casserole ingredients night before, refrigerate overnight, then start crockpot in morning for effortless dinner preparation.

FAQs

  • Are pierogies traditionally made from scratch or store-bought?For this recipe, frozen store-bought pierogies work best. They save time and are convenient, maintaining the authentic taste without the labor-intensive process of handmaking them.
  • Can I use a different type of sausage instead of kielbasa?Absolutely! While kielbasa provides a classic Polish flavor, you can substitute with smoked sausage, bratwurst, or andouille sausage depending on your preference and what's available.
  • Is this recipe gluten-sensitive friendly?Not inherently. The cream of mushroom soup and pierogies typically contain gluten. To make it gluten-free, you'll need to use specific gluten-free pierogies and a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup alternative.
  • How do I prevent the pierogies from getting too mushy?Don't overcook. Use the recommended cooking times (2-3 hours on high or 4-5 hours on low) and avoid adding extra liquid. Frozen pierogies maintain their texture better than fresh ones in a slow cooker.

Crockpot Tools for Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa

  • Crockpot: Essential for slow cooking the casserole, providing even heat distribution.
  • Mixing bowl: Perfect for blending sauce ingredients smoothly.
  • Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring and combining sauce components.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: Crucial for accurate ingredient proportions.
  • Cutting board: Needed for slicing kielbasa and dicing onions.
  • Sharp knife: Used for precise ingredient preparation.
  • Cheese grater: Helpful if using block cheese instead of pre-shredded.

Build and Slow-Cook Pierogi Casserole from Start to Finish

  • Prepare Crockpot Layer

Grab your slow cooker and create a delicious base by nestling frozen pierogies, juicy kielbasa slices, and fragrant onions into the pot. Make sure each ingredient gets cozy with its neighbors.

  • Whip Up Creamy Sauce

Mix a luscious sauce combining cream of mushroom soup, tangy sour cream, savory chicken broth, and a sprinkle of garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture transforms into a smooth, velvety blend that’ll make your taste buds dance.

  • Build Your Flavor Masterpiece

Pour the creamy sauce over the layered pierogies and kielbasa, ensuring every morsel gets a delicious coating. Crown your creation with a generous blanket of shredded cheddar cheese that’ll melt into gooey perfection.

  • Slow Cook to Deliciousness

Cover your crockpot and let the happen. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the pierogies become tender and the cheese turns into a golden, bubbling wonder.

  • Serve and Celebrate

Sprinkle some fresh chives or green onions on top for a pop of color and extra flavor. Dig into this comforting, hearty meal that’ll warm your soul and satisfy your hunger.

Try These Additions in Your Kielbasa Casserole

  • Swap frozen pierogies with fresh ones for a firmer texture and homemade feel.
  • Prepare the sauce and slice kielbasa the night before to save morning prep time.
  • Replace cream of mushroom soup and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and plant-based yogurt for lactose-sensitive guests.
  • Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the sauce for a zesty kick that transforms the classic comfort dish into a spicier version.
  • Substitute kielbasa with plant-based sausage or extra firm tofu cubes, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a meat-free casserole.

Ways to Serve Pierogi Casserole Hot and Satisfying

  • Cozy Family Dinner Night: Serve this hearty casserole as a comforting main dish that brings everyone together around the table, perfect for chilly evenings or weekend gatherings.
  • Polish-Inspired Plating: Pair with a crisp cucumber salad or tangy sauerkraut to complement the rich, savory flavors of the kielbasa and pierogies, adding a traditional Eastern European touch.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Sides: Offer warm crusty bread or buttered dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce, creating a complete and satisfying meal that'll have everyone asking for seconds.
  • Leftover: Store any remaining casserole in an airtight container for a delicious next-day lunch, as the flavors tend to meld and become even more delicious overnight.
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Hearty Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Recipe

Hearty Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Recipe


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4.6 from 21 reviews

  • Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 7 1x

Description

Polish comfort classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa delivers hearty flavors from Eastern European traditions. Creamy layers of potatoes, pasta, and smoky sausage create a satisfying meal you will savor with each comforting bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 packages (16 oz or 454 g) frozen potato and cheese pierogies
  • 1 pound (454 g) kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 can (10.5 oz or 298 g) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • Fresh chives or green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Layer Preparation: Arrange frozen pierogies in an overlapping pattern across the crockpot base, creating a foundational layer that ensures comprehensive coverage and even cooking.
  2. Protein Distribution: Slice kielbasa into consistent medallions and disperse them uniformly across the pierogi layer, guaranteeing balanced meat integration throughout the dish.
  3. Aromatic Enhancement: Finely dice onions and scatter them over the meat layer to infuse depth and complexity into the casserole’s flavor profile.
  4. Sauce Creation: Whisk cream of mushroom soup with sour cream and chicken broth, transforming these ingredients into a luxuriously smooth sauce that will permeate every component of the dish.
  5. Seasoning Fusion: Incorporate garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the sauce, stirring meticulously to develop a harmonious flavor landscape that elevates the entire casserole.
  6. Layering and Coverage: Pour the prepared sauce over the pierogi and kielbasa, ensuring complete and consistent coverage to prevent any potential dry regions during slow cooking.
  7. Cheese Finale: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously across the top, allowing it to melt and create a golden, appetizing surface during the cooking process.
  8. Slow Cooking Process: Cover the crockpot and set to low temperature for 4-5 hours, or alternatively use high temperature for 2-3 hours until pierogies reach optimal tenderness and flavors meld completely.
  9. Serving Presentation: Garnish with freshly chopped chives or green onions to introduce a vibrant, aromatic finish and enhance the visual appeal of the comforting dish.

Notes

  • Optimize Pierogi Placement: Overlap frozen pierogies carefully to ensure consistent heat distribution and prevent uneven cooking throughout the casserole.
  • Balance Kielbasa Cutting: Slice sausage into equal-sized medallions to guarantee uniform meat coverage and even flavor in each bite.
  • Control Moisture Levels: Pour sauce slowly and thoroughly to prevent dry patches, ensuring every pierogi gets coated with creamy goodness.
  • Cheese Melting Technique: Sprinkle shredded cheese generously but evenly, allowing it to create a golden, appetizing top layer without clumping.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Polish

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 7
  • Calories: 570
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 1200 mg
  • Fat: 36 g
  • Saturated Fat: 16 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 39 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 20 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
John Nicholson

John Nicholson

Lead Writer & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Recipe Testing and Development, Kitchen Hacks and Time-Saving Tips, Flavor Pairing and Ingredient Selection, Engaging Food Writing and Storytelling

Education

Johnson & Wales University

  • Program: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: A hands-on curriculum emphasizing farm-to-table cooking, local ingredient sourcing, and creative menu development. Students gained real-world restaurant experience, learning both classic techniques and modern approaches to sustainable cooking.

John Nicholson honed his skills at Johnson & Wales University, learning how to use fresh, local ingredients and down-to-earth techniques to make cooking simple and satisfying.

His recipes blend Southern comfort flavors with a modern touch, inviting everyone to cook with ease and confidence.

Living in Charleston, John takes cues from the city’s lively food scene, local markets, and seasonal produce. He’s all about making meals stress-free through easy tips, flavor pairings, and fun experiments in the kitchen

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