Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

The first time I made this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa, it was purely out of necessity on a busy weeknight.

I had a package of pierogies and some kielbasa, and I just hoped for the best as I threw everything into the slow cooker.

A few hours later, my kitchen smelled absolutely incredible, and my family devoured every last bite. It’s now one of my go-to comfort meals that I fall back on whenever life gets a little hectic.

This dish is the definition of cozy, combining tender dumplings, smoky sausage, and a rich, cheesy sauce with almost zero effort.

Ingredients

Here are the simple ingredients you’ll need to create this incredibly easy and delicious casserole. I find that using mini pierogies helps everything cook evenly and creates perfect bite-sized portions.

• 3 boxes cheddar pierogies: I recommend using the mini-sized ones if you can find them. They are the star of the show, offering tender little pockets of potato and cheese that soak up the creamy sauce.
• 1 lb sliced kielbasa: This smoked sausage adds a deep, savory, and slightly smoky flavor that is the heart of the casserole. Pre-cooked kielbasa makes this recipe incredibly simple.
• 8-ounce cream cheese: Make sure this is softened to room temperature. It’s the secret to an ultra-creamy, velvety sauce that coats every pierogi and piece of sausage.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: For the best melt, I always suggest grating your own cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheese contains starches that can prevent it from melting smoothly.
• 4 cups chicken broth: This creates the liquid base for the sauce, thinning the cream cheese and allowing the pierogies to cook perfectly in the slow cooker.
• Salt and pepper to taste: You may not need much salt since the broth and kielbasa are already salty, but you can adjust at the end.

Note: This recipe makes about 6 hearty servings.

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to adapt. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

• Protein Swap: If you’re not a fan of kielbasa, you can easily substitute it with another smoked sausage, cooked ham, or even shredded chicken. For a vegetarian version, use a plant-based sausage.
• Add Some Veggies: Feel free to stir in some sautéed onions, bell peppers, or a handful of spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a nutritional boost and extra flavor.
• Change the Cheese: While cheddar is classic, this casserole is also delicious with a Swiss and Gruyère blend, or even a spicy pepper jack for a little kick.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make this gluten-free, simply use your favorite brand of gluten-free pierogies and ensure your kielbasa and chicken broth are certified gluten-free.

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 3-4 hours on high, or 6 hours on low
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes

Equipment you need

• Crockpot/Slow Cooker: A 6-quart slow cooker is the perfect size for this recipe, allowing all the ingredients to fit without being overcrowded.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for slicing the kielbasa.
• Sharp Knife: You’ll need a good knife to slice the kielbasa into even rounds.
• Nonstick Cooking Spray: This is a lifesaver for cleanup, as it prevents the cheese from sticking to the sides of the crockpot.

How to Make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa?

This recipe is famously a “dump-and-go” meal, which is perfect for days when you have very little time to spend in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work, gently melding the flavors together into a rich, savory, and satisfying dish. Just a few minutes of prep is all it takes to get this comforting casserole started.

Layer the Ingredients

First, spray your crockpot insert with nonstick cooking spray to make cleanup easier later. Then, place all of your ingredients—the frozen pierogies, sliced kielbasa, chunks of softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and chicken broth—into the slow cooker. I like to give it a gentle stir to make sure everything is somewhat evenly distributed before cooking.

Set It and Forget It

Once everything is in the pot, cover it with the lid and set your crockpot to cook. You can cook it on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low for 6 hours. The low and slow method allows the flavors to develop more deeply, but the high setting works perfectly when you’re shorter on time. The pierogies will become tender, and the cheeses will melt into a luscious, creamy sauce.

Serve and Enjoy

After the cooking time is up, give the casserole a good stir to combine the melted cheese sauce with all the ingredients. The sauce will be rich and creamy, coating every single pierogi and slice of kielbasa. Serve it hot, straight from the crockpot, garnished with some fresh parsley or sliced green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

• I find that browning the kielbasa slices in a skillet for a few minutes before adding them to the crockpot adds a fantastic depth of flavor. It’s an optional step, but one I take when I have a little extra time.
• Don’t lift the lid while it’s cooking! Every time you peek, you let heat and steam escape, which can increase the cooking time. Trust the process.
• For an extra cheesy finish, I sometimes sprinkle another handful of cheddar cheese on top during the last 15 minutes of cooking and let it get nice and melty.
• If the sauce seems a little thick for your liking at the end, you can stir in an extra splash of chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.

How to Serve Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa?

This casserole is a hearty, all-in-one meal, so it doesn’t need much on the side. I love to serve it in a bowl and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions to add a bit of freshness that cuts through the richness. A dollop of sour cream on top is also a classic and delicious addition.

If you want to round out the meal, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans works wonderfully. For something extra comforting, serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping into that amazing cheesy sauce.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a general overview of the nutritional facts for one serving of this casserole.

• Calories: 467 kcal
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fat: 42g

Make Ahead and Storage

Refrigerator Storage

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors tend to get even better the next day, making it perfect for lunch.

Freezing Guidelines

This casserole freezes quite well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Instructions

Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or in a pot on the stove over low heat. You may want to add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy consistency.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This dish is a weeknight hero for so many reasons. Here are a few things that will make you fall in love with it.

• Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor: It’s a true set-it-and-forget-it meal. You just toss everything in the slow cooker and come back to a delicious, fully-cooked dinner.
• Ultimate Comfort Food: With tender pierogies, smoky sausage, and a rich, cheesy sauce, this casserole is like a warm hug in a bowl.
• Family-Friendly: This is a dish that both kids and adults will love. The simple, savory flavors are always a hit at the dinner table.
• Perfect for Potlucks: This recipe is easy to double and transport, making it an ideal dish to bring to a gathering or potluck. It’s always one of the first things to disappear