Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a meal that’s both comforting and surprisingly simple to throw together, Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is destined to become your next family favorite. Picture pillowy cheddar pierogies nestled among juicy slices of kielbasa, all enveloped in a creamy blanket of chicken broth and melted cheddar, gently cooked to perfection by the magic of your slow cooker. This casserole is hearty, crowd-pleasing, and guaranteed to fill your kitchen with savory, irresistible aromas that’ll have everyone counting down the minutes until dinnertime.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the joys of Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is how a few key ingredients can deliver such big flavor. Each element works in harmony to create that signature creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness, turning simple supermarket finds into a memorable comfort meal.

• Cheddar Pierogies: These are the soul of the casserole, offering a soft dumpling bite filled with gooey cheddar, setting the tone for richness and satisfaction.
• Chicken Broth: Adds a flavorful depth and keeps the pierogies moist as they soak up all the goodness during slow cooking.
• Cream Cheese: Melts into the broth for a silky, tangy sauce that brings everything together into one harmonious casserole.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Delivers that luxurious melted cheese finish both inside and on top, ensuring every forkful is extra-special.
• Kielbasa: Sliced and nestled throughout, it brings smoky-savory notes and hearty texture that play perfectly with the pierogies.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, so adjust to taste for the best flavor balance.

How to Make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Step 1: Combine Main Ingredients

Begin by adding three cups of chicken broth to your 4-6 quart crockpot, then nestle in those frozen cheddar pierogies, scatter the slices of kielbasa, and toss in a generous cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Give everything a gentle stir so the flavors start getting acquainted—no need to thaw the pierogies!

Step 2: Slow Cook for Flavor Perfection

Set your crockpot to high for 3 to 4 hours, or on low for an effortless 6-hour cook. This long, slow simmer is where the magic happens, letting the pierogies soak up flavor from the kielbasa and broth as the cheese begins to melt and mingle into a cozy, bubbling casserole.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

About 30 minutes before the end of cooking, it’s time to make that ultra-creamy sauce. In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, warm the block of cream cheese with the remaining cup of chicken broth until soft and melty. Whisk until smooth and lump-free—it should be glossy and pourable.

Step 4: Assemble and Finish

Pour the freshly-prepared cream cheese mixture into your crockpot and gently stir until everything is coated in creamy goodness. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top, then cover and let it cook on low for another 30 minutes. This step lets all the flavors blend and the cheese melt to perfection, giving that signature casserole finish.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Lift the lid to find a bubbling, golden casserole ready to wow your table. Scoop it out while piping hot, and don’t forget an optional garnish of thinly sliced green onions for a pop of color and a touch of fresh crunch.

How to Serve Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Garnishes

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is rich and velvety, so fresh garnishes are a delightful contrast. A generous sprinkle of thinly sliced green onions looks beautiful and adds a mild zing, while a shower of fresh parsley or chives provides an herby brightness. If you’re feeling fancy, try a dusting of smoked paprika for extra color and depth.

Side Dishes

This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it’s fantastic alongside a few simple sides. Crisp steamed green beans, buttery sautéed cabbage, or a classic garden salad offer fresh crunch and balance. For those who adore carbs, a slice of rustic bread is perfect for scooping up every creamy bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings or weeknight flair, serve Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa in mini ramekins or individual cast iron skillets. Add chopped fresh herbs before bringing it to the table for that #hostesswiththemostest touch. Or, set out bowls of toppings like crispy bacon bits, sour cream, and hot sauce so everyone can customize their serving to suit their taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have any leftovers, simply transfer them to an airtight container once the casserole has cooled. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. The pierogies may soak up more sauce over time but the flavor only deepens, making each reheat as crave-worthy as the first go-round.

Freezing

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa freezes beautifully. Portion out cooled leftovers into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in foil. Freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator—this keeps the cheesy sauce from separating.

Reheating

Reheat gently, either on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring every so often. Add a splash of chicken broth if you want to restore some creaminess. Top with a bit of fresh cheddar or herbs to make every serving feel brand new.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pierogi?

Absolutely! While cheddar pierogies are classic in Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa, you can easily swap in potato, onion, or even mushroom pierogies for a fun twist—just make sure to keep the overall spirit of the dish in mind.

Is there a way to make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the kielbasa and use a vegetable broth for a meatless meal. You could add sautéed mushrooms or peppers for extra savoriness and still achieve a creamy, filling casserole.

Can I add more veggies?

Definitely! Chopped spinach, caramelized onions, or bell peppers work wonderfully. Stir them in at the beginning with the pierogies and kielbasa for even more flavor and color in your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa.

What’s the best way to keep leftovers from drying out?

Make sure to store the casserole in an airtight container and cover any surface with plastic wrap before sealing if using a dish. Add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to revive that signature creamy texture.

Do I need to thaw the pierogies first?

No thawing is needed! Toss those frozen pierogies right into the crockpot. They cook up perfectly tender, soaking up all the cheesy, savory flavors as they simmer.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried a slow-cooked casserole quite like this, now’s the time to make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa your new go-to comfort dish. It’s impossibly creamy, bursting with flavor, and just the kind of cozy, crowd-pleasing recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and let your kitchen fill with the savory, irresistible aroma that only this special casserole can bring. Give it a try—you’re going to fall in love!

Print