Introduction
Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a comforting, one-pot meal that combines the best of Polish cuisine in a hands-off, slow-cooked dish. This hearty casserole is the ultimate comfort food—filled with tender pierogi (Polish dumplings), smoky kielbasa sausage, and a rich, creamy sauce that melds together perfectly over hours of slow cooking. It’s the perfect solution for busy families, meal prep enthusiasts, or anyone craving a warm, filling dinner that requires minimal effort.
Pierogi, traditionally made with fillings like potato, cheese, and meat, are the star of this recipe. They are nestled between layers of kielbasa and a savory, creamy sauce that’s thickened with sour cream and cream of mushroom soup. The beauty of this dish lies in how it all comes together in the Crockpot, where the flavors marry over time without the need for constant attention.
This casserole is not only incredibly delicious but also versatile and adaptable to different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re a busy mom looking for an easy weeknight dinner or someone hosting a cozy family gathering, Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa will be a hit. And best of all, the Crockpot does most of the work for you, allowing you to spend your time doing other things while the flavors develop. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients
To make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa, you’ll need a handful of ingredients that come together to create a rich, flavorful dish. Here’s a complete list of what you’ll need:
- 1 package (16 oz) of frozen pierogi (you can use cheese, potato, or a combination of both)
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds (choose your preferred type—polska kielbasa or turkey kielbasa are popular options)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (you can substitute with mozzarella or a blend of cheeses if preferred)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or use cream of chicken soup for a different flavor)
- 1 cup sour cream (full-fat is best for a creamy texture)
- 1/2 cup milk (you can use whole milk for a richer taste, or swap for a dairy-free version if necessary)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (for that savory depth of flavor)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (to enhance the taste of the onions)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly cracked is ideal)
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional, but it adds a subtle smoky flavor and color)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for greasing the Crockpot)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
These ingredients come together to create the most amazing pierogi casserole you’ve ever tasted. The pierogi stay soft and absorb all the flavors, while the kielbasa adds a savory and slightly smoky contrast. The creamy sauce ties everything together, making it a meal that everyone will love. Ready to get started? Let’s move on to the preparation!
Directions
The steps for making Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa are simple and straightforward. The key to this recipe is layering, so make sure to follow each step carefully to ensure that everything cooks evenly and the flavors develop properly. Here’s how to make it:
1. Prepare the Crockpot
The first thing you’ll need to do is grease your Crockpot. Use olive oil or cooking spray to ensure that the casserole doesn’t stick during the cooking process. This step will help you avoid any messy cleanup later on. You don’t want all that delicious, cheesy sauce to be stuck to the sides of your slow cooker!
2. Layer the Ingredients
Start by placing a layer of frozen pierogi at the bottom of your Crockpot. Don’t worry about thawing them first—frozen pierogi will cook perfectly in the slow cooker. Spread them out so that they form an even base layer.
Next, add a layer of sliced kielbasa sausage. The kielbasa adds a nice smoky flavor and a bit of heartiness to the dish. Follow up with a layer of chopped onions. You can choose to sauté the onions beforehand for extra sweetness and flavor, but they’ll cook just fine in the Crockpot as they are.
Repeat the layering process, ensuring that the top layer is pierogi, as it will need more time to cook through than the kielbasa or onions. The pierogi will become tender and absorb the rich flavors of the sausage and sauce.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk. Stir until everything is smooth and well-blended. This creamy mixture is what binds the casserole together and gives it that decadent, comforting texture.
Next, add the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika. Stir again to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the sauce. Once the sauce is ready, pour it over the layered ingredients in the Crockpot. Be sure to spread it evenly over the pierogi and kielbasa so that every bite will be coated in that creamy goodness.
4. Cook the Casserole
Cover the Crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low heat for 4-5 hours. The low and slow cooking method will allow the pierogi to become tender, the kielbasa to infuse the dish with flavor, and the sauce to thicken and meld everything together. It’s important not to open the Crockpot too often while it’s cooking, as the heat will escape and affect the cooking time.
You can check the casserole after about 3 hours to make sure it’s cooking properly, but don’t stir it at this point, as it might cause the pierogi to break apart.
5. Add the Cheese
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover the Crockpot again and let the cheese melt into a gooey, delicious layer. The melted cheese adds another level of richness and flavor to the casserole, making it even more irresistible.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is ready to serve! Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Spoon out portions onto plates and enjoy this comforting, filling meal.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields about 6-8 servings, depending on portion sizes. It’s a great meal to feed a small family or to serve at a potluck or gathering.
- Total Cook Time: Approximately 4-5 hours on low heat in the Crockpot.
- Prep Time: 10-15 minutes for assembly.
Variations
The great thing about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can make it your own by swapping out ingredients or adding new ones to suit your tastes. Here are a few variations to consider:
1. Meat Options:
- You can swap kielbasa for other types of sausage, such as Italian sausage, chicken sausage, or even turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- If you’re not a fan of sausage, try adding diced ham or bacon for a different flavor profile.
2. Pierogi Filling:
- While cheese and potato pierogi are classic, you can switch things up with other fillings like meat-filled pierogi, sauerkraut pierogi, or even mushroom-filled pierogi.
- You can also use fresh pierogi instead of frozen, though you may need to adjust the cooking time since fresh pierogi will cook faster.
3. Add Veggies:
- Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or peas to make the dish more hearty and nutritious.
- If you like, sauté the veggies first to bring out their flavors before layering them in the Crockpot.
4. Spicy Twist:
- If you prefer a bit of spice, add some hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or jalapeños to the sauce for an extra kick.
- You can also add some smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Storage:
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It makes a great next-day lunch or dinner.
Freezing:
- This casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for 2-3 months in the freezer.
- When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.
Reheating:
- To reheat individual portions, simply microwave them for 2-3 minutes until heated through. If you’re reheating the entire casserole, you can bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and heated through.
- If you’re reheating from frozen, allow extra time—about 45 minutes at 350°F, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
10 FAQs
1. Can I use fresh pierogi instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh pierogi will work well, but they’ll cook faster than frozen ones. Check the casserole after 3 hours of cooking to avoid overcooking.
2. Can I make this recipe in the oven?
Yes, you can bake this casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 30-40 minutes. Add the cheese in the last 10 minutes of baking.
3. Is there a way to make this gluten-free?
To make the casserole gluten-free, you’ll need to use gluten-free pierogi. You can also check that the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free.
4. What kind of pierogi should I use?
You can use any type of pierogi you like—cheese and potato are the most common, but meat-filled, sauerkraut, or even spinach pierogi are delicious options.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a different cheese blend. Just make sure it melts well.
6. How can I prevent the pierogi from getting soggy?
Layering the ingredients and cooking on low heat for several hours ensures that the pierogi cook evenly and don’t become too soggy. The sauce helps prevent this too.
7. Can I prepare this dish the night before?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Then, just cook it in the Crockpot the next day.
8. Can I add sour cream on top before serving?
Yes, a dollop of sour cream on top of each serving adds a creamy touch and balances the richness of the dish.
9. How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is not spicy unless you add spicy ingredients like hot sauce or pepper flakes. It’s a mild, comforting casserole.
10. What side dishes go well with this casserole?
A light side salad, steamed green beans, or a simple vegetable side dish like roasted carrots or broccoli would complement the richness of the casserole.
Conclusion
Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a perfect dish for those looking for a hearty, comforting, and easy-to-make meal. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Polish flavors or just love a one-pot casserole, this recipe has something for everyone. It’s easy to prepare, feeds a crowd, and can be cu