There’s something deeply satisfying about a meal that practically makes itself while you carry on with your day. This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa blends layers of hearty potato-and-cheese pierogi, zesty rounds of kielbasa, and a luxuriously creamy cheese sauce, all slow-cooked to tender perfection. As those flavors meld together over a few hours, you’ll be greeted by inviting bubbles and a golden crust peeking through when you finally lift the lid. It’s the epitome of comfort food—rich, filling, and brimming with the kind of cozy goodness that warms you from the inside out.
Whether you’re juggling work and family life, hosting friends over the weekend, or simply craving a fuss-free dinner, this recipe is your new best friend. With minimal prep—just 15 minutes of chopping and mixing—you’ll have time to set the table, catch up on a show, or even sneak in a quick walk. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, infusing each pierogi with smoky sausage flavor and enveloping everything in a creamy, cheesy embrace. By the time you’re ready to eat, the kitchen will be filled with enticing scents and the promise of a satisfying, one-dish dinner that everyone will rave about.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CROCKPOT PIEROGI CASSEROLE WITH KIELBASA
Every standout recipe starts with high-quality ingredients that work in harmony to create layers of flavor and texture. In this section, we’ll introduce each component and explain why it’s essential to our crockpot casserole masterpiece.
- Potato and cheese pierogi
These tender dumplings bring a soft, pillowy texture and savory heartiness. They soak up the creamy sauce and kielbasa juices, making each bite irresistibly rich.
- Kielbasa sausage
With its smoky, garlicky character, kielbasa provides bursts of meaty flavor. Its fat renders as it cooks, infusing the casserole’s base with savory depth.
- Onion
Chopped onion adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic foundation. As it simmers, it softens and melds seamlessly into the saucy layers.
- Sour cream
This tangy dairy element brightens the dish and contributes to that luscious, velvety sauce that ties everything together.
- Cream of mushroom soup
Acting as a creamy binder, the soup enhances umami notes and helps create the decadent sauce that coats every pierogi.
- Cheddar cheese
Shredded cheddar melts into gooey pockets of sharp, tangy goodness. It adds both flavor complexity and that desirable cheese pull.
- Milk
A splash of milk lightens the sauce’s consistency, ensuring it’s rich but pourable, and prevents it from becoming too dense.
- Butter
Used to grease the crockpot, butter prevents sticking and introduces a hint of decadent richness right from the start.
- Salt and pepper
Simple but crucial, these seasonings allow you to customize the casserole’s flavor to taste, balancing creaminess and savoriness.
- Fresh parsley
A final sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color, a touch of herbal brightness, and freshness to each hearty serving.
HOW TO MAKE CROCKPOT PIEROGI CASSEROLE WITH KIELBASA
Before diving into the step-by-step process, know that this recipe is designed for ease and flexibility. You’ll layer simple ingredients in your slow cooker, pour over a creamy sauce, and let the appliance work its magic—no constant supervision needed. Ready to build your casserole? Here’s exactly how to do it:
1. Grease the crockpot
Generously butter the inside of your crockpot to create a nonstick surface. This little step ensures that none of those cheesy, saucy bits cling to the sides when it’s time to serve.
2. Layer kielbasa and onion
Place the sliced kielbasa sausage and chopped onion in the bottom of the crockpot. These aromatics will release flavors and juices as they cook, forming the savory base of your casserole.
3. Add frozen pierogi
Arrange the potato and cheese pierogi in an even layer on top of the sausage and onion. You don’t need to thaw them—frozen pierogi cook perfectly in the slow cooker.
4. Prepare the creamy mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk. Stir until smooth and fully combined.
5. Pour over layers
Carefully pour the creamy sauce over the pierogi, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Use a spatula to nudge any stray dumplings and coat them thoroughly.
6. Season
Sprinkle salt and pepper over the top to your taste. This simple seasoning will highlight the richness of the sauce and the smokiness of the kielbasa.
7. Cook
Secure the lid and set the crockpot to low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the pierogi are tender and the cheese sauce is bubbling around the edges.
8. Garnish
Once cooking is complete, lift the lid and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
9. Serve
Dish out generous portions while hot, spooning extra sauce over each serving. Enjoy the harmonious blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory notes in every bite!
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CROCKPOT PIEROGI CASSEROLE WITH KIELBASA
When it comes to presenting this hearty casserole, a few thoughtful touches can elevate the meal from casual comfort to memorable feast. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply spoiling your household, pairing the casserole with the right sides, garnishes, and accompaniments can create a well-rounded dining experience. Consider texture contrasts, fresh elements, and color pops to ensure each plate not only tastes delicious but also looks inviting.
- Enhance with a crisp green salad
Serve alongside a vibrant salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette. The freshness and acidity cut through the richness of the casserole for perfect balance.
- Offer a basket of crusty bread
Provide warm slices of sourdough or a rustic baguette. Guests can use them to scoop up extra sauce, turning every last drop of creamy goodness into an edible souvenir.
- Pair with pickled peppers or veggies
A side of tangy pickled cucumbers, peppers, or onions adds a zesty kick. The acidity complements the creamy casserole and refreshes the palate between bites.
- Serve with a light beer or crisp white wine
Choose a pilsner or a dry riesling. The effervescence and bright flavors cut through the heaviness, creating an elegant pairing that’s still wonderfully casual.
HOW TO STORE CROCKPOT PIEROGI CASSEROLE WITH KIELBASA
This casserole is not only a one-pot wonder for dinner—it’s also a lifesaver for leftovers and meal prep. Proper storage ensures that each reheated portion is nearly as delightful as the freshly cooked version. Whether you’re refrigerating for the next day or freezing for a future busy night, follow these methods to maintain optimal flavor, texture, and convenience.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container
Transfer cooled casserole into a sealable, airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of milk if needed to revive creaminess.
- Freeze in portion-sized bags
For long-term storage, divide the cooled casserole into individual portions and place them in freezer-safe zipper bags. Remove excess air, label with the date, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Use a casserole dish with a lid
If you plan to reheat in the oven, store leftovers in the original crockpot stoneware or a similar oven-safe dish with a fitted lid. Simply pop it into a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed and bubbly.
- Revive creaminess when reheating
Whether microwave, oven, or stovetop, add a little extra sour cream or milk to refresh the sauce. Stir gently halfway through reheating to distribute heat evenly and prevent dryness.
CONCLUSION
This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa truly checks all the boxes for a beginner-friendly, flavor-packed, and utterly comforting dinner. We’ve walked through each element—from bold ingredients like pierogi, kielbasa, and cheddar cheese, to the step-by-step assembly in your slow cooker. You’ve seen how layers of savory sausage and onions form the foundation, how a creamy sauce brings it all together, and how a simple garnish of fresh parsley transforms the final presentation. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight dinner or a laid-back weekend gathering, this recipe proves that serious comfort can come from minimal effort. Don’t forget to print this article and save it for future cozy meals, or stash it in your digital recipe collection so it’s always at your fingertips.
Below you’ll find a handy FAQ section to tackle any questions you might have, from ingredient swaps to troubleshooting cooking times. If you give this recipe a try, please drop a comment sharing your results, ask any questions about customization or technique, or let us know how you made it your own. Your feedback helps build a community of home cooks who lift each other up—and who doesn’t love swapping stories about rich, cheesy casseroles that warm both belly and heart? Happy slow cooking!
Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa
Description
This comforting casserole blends cheesy pierogi, savory kielbasa, and creamy goodness, all slow-cooked to perfection for a satisfying meal any day.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Grease the inside of your crockpot with the tablespoon of butter to prevent sticking.
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Place the sliced kielbasa and chopped onion into the crockpot.
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Add the frozen pierogi on top of the kielbasa and onion mixture.
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In a medium mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk. Stir well to form a creamy mixture.
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Pour the creamy mixture over the layers in the crockpot, ensuring it's evenly distributed.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Place the lid on the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. The pierogi should be tender and the cheese sauce bubbling.
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Once cooked, garnish the casserole with chopped fresh parsley.
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Serve hot, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this hearty dish.
Note
- For added richness, try using a mixture of different cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
- Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Swap kielbasa for another type of sausage, like Italian or chorizo, for a different taste profile.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep or gatherings.
- Consider using a liner for your crockpot to make cleanup quick and easy.
