This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a dream come true for comfort food lovers. The combination of pillowy cheddar pierogies, smoky kielbasa, and rich, creamy cheese sauce makes this dish irresistibly delicious. Best of all, it’s made in the slow cooker, so you can simply set it and forget it, letting the flavors meld into the perfect cozy meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual gathering, this recipe is as easy as it is satisfying. With minimal prep and just a few ingredients, you’ll have a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that’s both indulgent and effortless. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, this cheesy pierogi casserole will quickly become a family favorite!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 3 boxes Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies (Regular or mini; mini preferred)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (8 oz.) block cream cheese, cut into cubes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 pound kielbasa, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Slice the kielbasa into bite-sized pieces. Cut the cream cheese into small cubes for easier melting.
- Assemble the Casserole: Place the pierogies in the crockpot. Add the sliced kielbasa, scatter the cream cheese cubes on top, and evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese.
- Pour in the Liquid: Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the crockpot, ensuring even coverage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the Casserole: Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6 hours. Stir occasionally to help the cheeses melt and blend into a creamy sauce.
- Serve: Once done, check if the pierogies are tender and the cheese is fully melted. Serve hot directly from the crockpot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 4 hours | Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 6
The Ultimate Comfort Food
When it comes to easy, comforting meals that practically cook themselves, few dishes can match the appeal of Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa. This rich and hearty dish combines the creamy, cheesy goodness of pierogies with the smoky, savory taste of kielbasa, all slow-cooked to perfection in a flavorful broth. If you’re looking for a simple, crowd-pleasing meal that doesn’t require hours of prep work, this recipe is a must-try.
What Makes This Recipe So Special?
There’s a reason why this crockpot pierogi casserole is a staple in many households it’s the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and convenience. It takes a classic Polish dish, pierogies, and transforms them into an effortless casserole that anyone can make. The slow-cooking process allows all the flavors to blend together, creating a rich and creamy dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
But the best part? You only need a few ingredients to make this dish, and most of them are pantry staples or easy-to-find grocery store items. The combination of cheddar pierogies, kielbasa, cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and chicken broth ensures a creamy, cheesy texture with a hint of smokiness from the sausage.
The Origins of Pierogies and Kielbasa
To truly appreciate this dish, it helps to understand its main components: pierogies and kielbasa.
Pierogies: A Classic Polish Comfort Food
Pierogies are one of Poland’s most beloved traditional foods. These dumpling-like pockets are typically filled with mashed potatoes and cheese, but they can also contain a variety of other fillings such as meat, mushrooms, or even fruit for a sweet variation. They are usually boiled and then pan-fried for a crispy exterior.
Pierogies were introduced to North America by Polish immigrants, and today, they remain a staple in many Eastern European and American households. The most common type found in stores is cheddar and potato pierogies, which serve as the base for this casserole.
Kielbasa: The Smoky Star of the Dish
Kielbasa, the Polish word for sausage, is another Eastern European favorite that has become widely popular in American cuisine. Unlike typical sausages, kielbasa has a distinct smoky, garlicky flavor that pairs beautifully with creamy, cheesy dishes. Whether grilled, pan-fried, or slow-cooked, kielbasa adds a robust, savory depth to any meal.
When combined with pierogies, kielbasa enhances the dish with its meaty, smoky goodness, making it extra satisfying.
Why Use a Slow Cooker for This Dish?
One of the best things about this pierogi casserole is that it’s made in a crockpot, allowing you to enjoy a hands-off cooking experience. Here’s why using a slow cooker is a game-changer for this recipe:
✔ Effortless Cooking – Just toss in your ingredients, set the timer, and let the crockpot do the work. There’s no need to babysit the dish, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
✔ Enhanced Flavors – Slow cooking allows the flavors of the kielbasa, cheese, and pierogies to blend together beautifully, resulting in a richer, deeper taste.
✔ Creamy, Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture – The low, slow heat ensures that the cheeses melt perfectly into a smooth and velvety sauce, coating the pierogies in every bite.
✔ Minimal Cleanup – Since everything is cooked in one pot, there’s less mess to deal with. Plus, many crockpots have removable inserts that make cleanup even easier.
Customization Ideas for This Recipe
One of the great things about Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is that it’s highly adaptable. Here are some creative variations you can try:
1. Add Vegetables for a Nutritious Boost
If you want to add more nutrition to this dish, mix in some vegetables like:
- Bell peppers for a sweet crunch
- Spinach or kale for added greens
- Mushrooms for a rich, umami flavor
- Onions and garlic for extra depth
These veggies will not only enhance the flavor but also add some color and nutrients to the dish.
2. Make It Spicy
For those who love a little heat, spice up your casserole by adding:
- Sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes
- Hot sauce mixed into the broth
- Spicy kielbasa instead of regular kielbasa
3. Experiment with Different Cheeses
While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can mix things up by using:
- Mozzarella for a gooey, stretchy texture
- Parmesan for a salty, nutty kick
- Gouda or smoked cheese for added depth
4. Try a Different Protein
Although kielbasa is traditional, you can swap it for:
- Smoked sausage
- Ham
- Grilled chicken
- Bacon bits
Each protein will bring its own unique flavor to the dish.
5. Make It Vegetarian
For a meatless version, simply omit the kielbasa and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. Adding extra vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers will keep it just as hearty and delicious.
Serving Suggestions
While this dish is a complete meal on its own, you can serve it with:
- A crisp green salad to balance out the richness
- Steamed or roasted vegetables for added nutrition
- Crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the cheesy sauce
- A dollop of sour cream or fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a finishing touch
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Easy & Convenient – Minimal prep and no complicated steps
✔ Rich & Creamy – Perfectly cheesy and indulgent
✔ Family-Friendly – Loved by both kids and adults
✔ Great for Meal Prep – Tastes even better as leftovers
✔ Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable and widely available ingredients
Storing & Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, don’t worry this dish stores and reheats beautifully!
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in the microwave or in a saucepan over low heat. If the sauce has thickened, add a splash of broth or milk to bring back the creamy consistency.
Conclusion:
Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the ultimate comfort food, blending creamy, cheesy, and smoky flavors into a warm and satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, this casserole delivers on all fronts.
With its simple ingredients, effortless preparation, and versatile variations, it’s no wonder this recipe is a favorite in so many homes. Give it a try, and it just might become a new staple in your meal rotation!