Stocky Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Recipe

Cozy Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Recipe

Crafting a comforting crockpot pierogi casserole with kielbasa brings pure culinary magic to your dinner table.

Polish roots shine through this hearty dish that combines classic ingredients with modern slow-cooking convenience.

Layers of tender pierogies mingle beautifully with savory kielbasa sausage and creamy cheese.

Weeknight meals never looked so delicious and satisfying.

Minimal prep work means maximum flavor potential in this crowd-pleasing recipe.

Imagine a one-pot wonder that delivers warmth, nostalgia, and incredible taste in every single bite.

Pairing Ideas for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

  • Select a robust red wine like Zinfandel or Cabernet Sauvignon that can stand up to the rich, savory flavors of kielbasa and cheese, cutting through the creamy texture while enhancing the dish's depth.
  • Create a classic Polish-inspired accompaniment with crisp, tangy sauerkraut that provides a sharp contrast to the casserole's creamy and meaty profile, balancing the overall richness of the meal.
  • Choose a cold, crisp Pilsner beer that offers a refreshing counterpoint to the heavy casserole, its light carbonation and hoppy notes cleansing the palate between bites and highlighting the dish's robust flavors.

Storage Tips for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Storage Tips for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa
  • Transfer leftovers to an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep the casserole flat to maintain its texture and prevent ingredient separation.
  • Pack the cooled casserole in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Store frozen for 2-3 months. Label the container with the date and contents for easy tracking.
  • Place a single serving in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Check temperature to ensure even warming.

FAQs

  • Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh pierogies, but reduce the cooking time slightly as they won’t need as much time to heat through compared to frozen ones.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, traditional pierogies contain wheat flour, so this recipe is not gluten-free. You would need to use gluten-free pierogies to make it celiac-friendly.

  • Can I substitute the kielbasa with another type of sausage?

Absolutely! Andouille, smoked sausage, or Polish sausage work great as alternatives and will provide similar flavor profiles to kielbasa.

  • How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture to increase the heat level and give the casserole a spicy kick.

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa to Enjoy

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa to Enjoy
  • Savor Stress-Free Cooking: Toss ingredients into the crockpot and let it work its magic without constant monitoring, making meal preparation a breeze for busy households.
  • Create Hearty Comfort Food: Packed with satisfying kielbasa, creamy cheese, and classic pierogies, this casserole delivers a warm, filling meal that hugs your taste buds and warms your soul.
  • Perfect for Crowd-Pleasing Gatherings: Designed to feed a hungry group with minimal effort, this dish brings people together with its delicious blend of flavors and simple preparation method.
  • Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe by adding extra vegetables, trying different cheese varieties, or adjusting seasonings to match your family's preferences and taste profile.

Ingredients for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Main Protein and Starch:
  • Kielbasa: A flavorful Polish sausage that adds smoky and savory depth to the casserole.
  • Frozen Pierogies: Traditional Eastern European dumplings that serve as the hearty base of the dish.
Dairy Components:
  • Cheddar Cheese: A sharp cheese that melts beautifully and provides a rich, tangy flavor to the casserole.
  • Cream Cheese: Creates a smooth, creamy sauce that binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
Liquid and Seasoning:
  • Chicken Broth: A versatile liquid that helps cook the ingredients and adds additional flavor to the dish.
  • Green Onions: An optional garnish that provides a fresh, mild onion flavor and adds a pop of color to the final presentation.

How to Make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

How to Make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Step 1: Toss Ingredients into Slow Cooker

Grab your trusty slow cooker and start layering the delicious components. Drop in frozen pierogies, kielbasa slices, and a generous helping of cheddar cheese.

Pour in chicken broth to create a mouthwatering base that will make your kitchen smell incredible.

  • Frozen pierogies
  • Kielbasa
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Chicken broth

Spread everything evenly so each bite will be packed with flavor.

Step 2: Set and Forget Cooking

Plug in your slow cooker and set it to high heat for 3-4 hours or low heat for 6 hours. This long, slow cooking process will transform these simple ingredients into a magical meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Step 3: Create Creamy Sauce Magic

About 30 minutes before finishing, prepare the secret weapon – a silky cream cheese sauce. Warm cream cheese with remaining chicken broth in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Whisk until the mixture becomes smooth and velvety.

Step 4: Final Flavor Fusion

Pour the cream cheese mixture into the slow cooker and stir gently.

Sprinkle additional cheddar cheese on top for an extra cheesy layer. Cover and cook on low for another 30 minutes, letting all those amazing flavors mingle and dance together.

Step 5: Serve and Celebrate

Scoop this comforting casserole into bowls. For a fresh pop of color and flavor, sprinkle some chopped green onions on top.

Watch as everyone digs in and enjoys this ultimate comfort food!

Tips to Perfect Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Tips to Perfect Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa
  • Swap frozen pierogies with fresh or homemade ones for a more authentic taste and texture.
  • Select a high-quality kielbasa with robust flavor to enhance the overall dish's depth.
  • Reduce sodium by using low-sodium chicken broth and monitoring cheese quantities.
  • Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for extra layers of savory complexity.
  • Try different cheese varieties like Swiss or Gouda for unique flavor profiles.

Variations on Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

  • Vegetarian Pierogi Delight: Replace kielbasa with plant-based sausage or extra firm tofu, using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a meat-free version.
  • Gluten-Free Polish Comfort: Swap standard pierogies with gluten-free pierogi alternatives, ensuring all ingredients like broth and cheese are certified gluten-free.
  • Spicy Kielbasa Edition: Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot smoked paprika to introduce a zesty kick to the traditional recipe.
  • Low-Sodium Polish Casserole: Use reduced-sodium chicken broth, low-sodium kielbasa, and part-skim cheese to create a heart-friendly adaptation of the classic dish.
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Stocky Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Recipe

Stocky Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Recipe


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4.7 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Polish comfort comes alive in this crockpot pierogi casserole with kielbasa, blending hearty flavors of Eastern European cuisine. Creamy cheese, savory sausage, and tender potato dumplings create a satisfying meal you’ll crave on chilly nights.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound kielbasa (sliced)
  • 3 packages Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies
  • 4 cups (960 ml) chicken broth
  • 1 (8 oz/226 g) block cream cheese
  • 1 cup (240 ml/100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Gather all ingredients and prepare the crockpot by lightly greasing the interior to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
  2. Layer frozen pierogies and kielbasa in the crockpot, creating an even distribution of ingredients for consistent flavor and texture.
  3. Pour chicken broth over the pierogies and kielbasa, ensuring the liquid covers the bottom of the crockpot and provides moisture for cooking.
  4. Sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese across the top of the ingredients, allowing it to melt and create a preliminary cheese layer during cooking.
  5. Cover and set the crockpot to high temperature, cooking for 3-4 hours or on low for 6 hours until pierogies become tender and kielbasa is heated through.
  6. Thirty minutes before completion, soften cream cheese by warming it with remaining chicken broth in a separate microwave-safe bowl or saucepan.
  7. Whisk the cream cheese and broth mixture until smooth and lump-free, creating a creamy sauce that will enhance the casserole’s richness.
  8. Gently fold the cream cheese mixture into the crockpot, stirring carefully to distribute evenly without breaking the pierogies.
  9. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese over the top, allowing it to melt and create a golden, bubbling surface.
  10. Continue cooking uncovered on low for an additional 15-30 minutes until cheese is fully melted and edges are slightly crispy.
  11. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh, crisp contrast to the hearty, rich casserole before serving hot directly from the crockpot.

Notes

  • Customize the kielbasa type to match dietary preferences, such as turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version.
  • Reduce sodium by using low-sodium chicken broth and selecting a reduced-fat cheese blend.
  • Add extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or spinach during the initial cooking stage to boost nutritional value and create a more balanced meal.
  • Prepare the casserole ahead of time by assembling ingredients in the crockpot the night before, then refrigerate and start cooking in the morning for a convenient dinner option.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Polish

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 527 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 1070 mg
  • Fat: 35 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 24 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
Michael Thompson

Michael Thompson

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Creating single-serving recipes tailored for individuals, small households, or meal preppers
  • Culinary arts with a focus on clean plating and natural styling for food photography
  • Working with fermented ingredients and dairy-based cooking techniques
  • Designing seasonal menus that use fresh, locally sourced produce

Education

Cascade Culinary Institute – Bend, OR

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Gained hands-on experience in professional kitchens, learning advanced recipe development, seasonal ingredient sourcing, and simple, beautiful food presentation.

ServSafe Food Handler Certification – Portland, OR

  • Program: Food Safety Certification
    Focus: Certified in core food safety and hygiene principles for both home and professional kitchens, with emphasis on ingredient handling, kitchen cleanliness, and safe preparation methods.

Mike’s kitchen journey began with a single goal: to make everyday meals feel like something worth celebrating.
After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Cascade Culinary Institute, he spent years working with local farmers and small kitchens across Oregon, learning the beauty of seasonal, small-batch cooking.
Mike’s approach is simple, cook with what’s fresh, keep it approachable, and always leave room for a little creativity. When he’s not testing yogurt marinades or designing single-serving meals, you’ll find him hiking trails or hunting down the best berries at local markets.

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