Delicious Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Recipe

Easy Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Recipe For Dinner

Comfort meets convenience in this hearty crockpot pierogi casserole with kielbasa that promises a delightful meal.

Layers of traditional Polish flavors meld together seamlessly in one simple dish.

Soft potato dumplings nestle alongside smoky sausage, creating a satisfying combination.

Minimal prep work means you can enjoy a rich, homestyle meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Each bite brings warmth and nostalgia, reminiscent of grandmother’s classic cooking.

Cheesy and indulgent, this casserole transforms weeknight dinners into something special.

Grab a fork and savor every comforting spoonful of this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe.

FAQs

  • Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh pierogies, but reduce the cooking time to 2-3 hours to prevent them from becoming too soft.

  • Do I need to thaw the pierogies before adding them to the crockpot?

No, you can add frozen pierogies directly to the crockpot without thawing, which makes this recipe extra convenient.

  • Can I substitute the type of kielbasa or cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to use different types of kielbasa like beef or turkey, and swap cheeses like Swiss or provolone to customize the flavor.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not automatically. Check that your pierogies and kielbasa are gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions, as traditional versions often contain wheat.

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa to Enjoy

  • Simplify Dinner Prep: Toss ingredients into the crockpot and let it work its magic, creating a hearty meal with minimal hands-on cooking.
  • Comfort Food Champion: Combines classic Polish-inspired flavors of pierogies and kielbasa into a rich, cheesy casserole that satisfies deep hunger.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Potential: Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or casual weeknight dinners where everyone craves something filling and delicious.
  • No-Fuss Cooking Method: Slow cooker technique ensures tender pierogies and perfectly melded flavors without constant monitoring or complicated techniques.

Ingredients for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Main Ingredients:
  • Frozen Pierogies: Traditional Polish dumplings that form the base of this hearty casserole.
  • Kielbasa: Classic Polish sausage that adds rich, smoky flavor to the dish.
Cheese and Dairy:
  • Cream Cheese: Provides a smooth, creamy texture and adds richness to the casserole.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Offers a sharp, tangy flavor and helps create a delicious sauce.
Seasonings and Liquid:
  • Chicken Broth: Helps to create moisture and enhance the overall flavor of the casserole.
  • Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Provide depth and savory undertones to the dish.
  • Black Pepper: Adds a subtle spicy kick and complements the other ingredients.

How to Make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Step 1: Prep the Slow Cooker Base

Arrange frozen pierogies in a single layer across the bottom of your crockpot, creating a solid foundation for the casserole.

Step 2: Add Savory Kielbasa Slices

Distribute sliced kielbasa evenly over the pierogies, ensuring a generous meat layer that will infuse rich flavor throughout the dish.

Step 3: Create Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine ingredients:
  • Cream cheese
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Chicken broth
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Black pepper

Whisk these ingredients until smooth and well-blended.

Step 4: Pour Sauce Over Layers

Gently pour the creamy cheese mixture across the pierogies and kielbasa, making sure to cover all ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the crockpot and set to low heat. Cook for 4-5 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the pierogies to become tender and delicious.

Step 6: Stir and Serve

Occasionally stir the casserole during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure uniform heat distribution. Once pierogies are soft and sauce is bubbly, the dish is ready to enjoy.

Tips for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

  • Swap frozen pierogies with fresh homemade ones for a more authentic taste and texture.
  • Choose low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and customize the dish's flavor profile.
  • Sprinkle crispy bacon bits or caramelized onions on top for extra crunch and depth of flavor.
  • Substitute kielbasa with vegetarian sausage to make the casserole meat-free and suitable for plant-based diets.
  • Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld and achieve optimal consistency.

Variations for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

  • Vegetarian Pierogi Delight: Replace kielbasa with plant-based sausage or roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a meat-free version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular pierogies with gluten-free potato or cheese pierogies. Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
  • Spicy Mexican-Inspired Casserole: Add diced jalapeños, swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese, and sprinkle taco seasoning over the mixture. Top with fresh cilantro before serving for extra flavor.
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Use cauliflower gnocchi or zucchini rounds instead of traditional pierogies. Reduce cream cheese and increase protein content with additional lean meat or tofu.

Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

  • Comfort Food Family Feast: Serve this hearty casserole as a main dish for Sunday family dinners, gathering everyone around the table for a warm, satisfying meal.
  • Potluck Party Favorite: Bring this crowd-pleasing dish to gatherings, where its rich flavors and easy preparation will make you the star of the potluck.
  • Game Day Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for sports watching parties, this filling casserole keeps hungry fans satisfied with its delicious blend of kielbasa and pierogies.
  • Weeknight Dinner Lifesaver: Prepare this simple crockpot meal when you're short on time, offering a quick and tasty solution for busy families.

Storage Advice for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the casserole cools completely before storing.
  • Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for maximum 2 months, using freezer-grade plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
  • Reheat refrigerated casserole in microwave by placing portion on microwave-safe plate, covering with damp paper towel, and heating in 1-minute intervals until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • Restore oven-baked texture by warming in preheated 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, covering with aluminum foil to prevent excessive drying.
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Delicious Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Recipe

Delicious Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Recipe


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4.7 from 33 reviews

  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Polish-inspired pierogi casserole blends hearty kielbasa with classic dumpling flavors in one comforting dish. Rich layers of cheese, potatoes, and sausage create a satisfying meal that connects you to traditional Eastern European cuisine.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 pound kielbasa sausage
  • 1 package frozen pierogies

Cheese:

  • 8 ounces cream cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Arrange frozen pierogies in a single layer at the bottom of the crockpot, creating a uniform base.
  2. Distribute sliced kielbasa evenly over the pierogies, ensuring complete coverage.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth and well-blended.
  4. Gently cascade the creamy cheese mixture across the pierogies and kielbasa, allowing it to seep between the layers.
  5. Secure the crockpot lid and set to low temperature for 4-5 hours, maintaining a consistent heat that will transform the ingredients into a harmonious, tender dish.
  6. Periodically interrupt the cooking process to delicately stir the contents, promoting uniform heating and preventing potential sticking.
  7. Once pierogies reach a soft, pillowy consistency and the cheese sauce has melded with the kielbasa, the casserole is ready to be served hot and bubbling.

Notes

  • Prevent pierogies from sticking by lightly spraying the crockpot with non-stick cooking spray before layering ingredients.
  • For a lighter version, swap full-fat cheeses with reduced-fat options and use low-sodium chicken broth to decrease calorie and sodium content.
  • Enhance flavor by caramelizing onions before adding to the crockpot, which deepens the overall taste profile of the casserole.
  • Add fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving to brighten the dish and introduce a fresh element to the rich, hearty casserole.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours (or 5 hours)
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Polish

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 15 g
  • Cholesterol: 45 mg
John Conley

John Conley

Founder & Culinary Storyteller

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Writing, Home Cooking Techniques, Seasonal Ingredient Utilization​

Education

Lane Community College, Eugene, OR
​Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on foundational cooking techniques, kitchen safety, and menu planning.

​Gotham Writers Workshop, New York, NY
Course in Food Writing
Explored the art of crafting engaging culinary narratives and recipe development.


John grew up where food meant connection: big bowls, warm kitchens, and meals that told a story. After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Lane Community College and diving deep into food writing at Gotham Writers Workshop, he found his calling: turning everyday recipes into something worth savoring.
At The Liffey, John’s focus is all about crafting dishes that feel easy, honest, and full of heart.

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