Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the aroma of melting cheese and savory kielbasa wafts through the kitchen, it’s hard not to feel a sense of warmth and nostalgia. This Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is not just a meal; it’s a delightful reminder of cozy family dinners where everyone gathers around the table. With its rich blend of creamy cheese and tender pierogi, this dish offers all the comfort of traditional fare without the fuss of making pierogi from scratch. Whether you’re a busy weeknight warrior or a seasoned home chef, this easy slow-cooker recipe is a definite crowd-pleaser, perfect for feeding your loved ones. Ready to discover how to whip up this hearty casserole effortlessly? Let’s dive in! Why is this casserole a must-try? Unmatched Ease: This Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a breeze to prepare. Just throw everything in your slow cooker and let it work its magic, saving you time for the things you love! Heartwarming Comfort: The creamy cheese and savory kielbasa create a warm, rich flavor that will remind you of family gatherings and cozy nights in. Versatile Options: Feel free to mix it up! Substitute kielbasa with your choice of sausage or add veggies like onions or bell peppers for even more deliciousness. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for family dinners or potlucks, this dish consistently impresses, ensuring satisfied smiles all around. Healthy Twist: Use low-sodium broth and turkey kielbasa for a lighter take without compromising flavor. If you love comforting slow-cooked meals, be sure to try this alongside my Garlic Butter Salmon for a delightful family feast! Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Ingredients For the Casserole • Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies – These provide the perfect texture and heartiness; opt for frozen for ultimate convenience. • Kielbasa – This smoky sausage adds robust flavor; feel free to choose smoked or turkey for a lighter option. • Chicken Broth (4 cups total) – The essential cooking liquid that infuses every layer with flavor; low-sodium is a great healthier choice. • Shredded Cheddar Cheese (2 cups total) – Offers richness and creaminess; save some for sprinkling on top for that extra cheesy goodness. • Cream Cheese (8 oz) – Vital for a velvety texture; remember to soften it to room temperature to prevent lumps. • Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to elevate the dish’s overall taste. For the Cheese Sauce • Remaining Chicken Broth (1 cup) – Used to create a silky cheese sauce; ensures the casserole remains moist. • Additional Shredded Cheese – Enhances the casserole with a deliciously gooey top layer. Enjoy creating this comforting Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa, which promises to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients In a 4-6 quart crockpot, add the frozen Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies, sliced kielbasa, 3 cups of chicken broth, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Gently stir everything together until the pierogies are evenly coated with the mixture. This step sets the foundation for your flavorful Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa. Step 2: Season the Mixture Next, season the casserole base with salt and pepper to taste—these simple seasonings will enhance the overall flavor. Make sure to mix in the seasoning well so that it distributes evenly throughout the dish, ensuring each bite is deliciously savory. Step 3: Choose the Cooking Temperature Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook the casserole on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6 hours. For the best results and deeper flavors, cooking on low is recommended. You’ll know it’s ready when the pierogies are tender and the mixture is bubbling with deliciousness. Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, create a creamy cheese sauce. In a small saucepan, gently warm the remaining 1 cup of chicken broth and 8 oz of cream cheese over low heat. Stir continuously until completely smooth and blended, creating a rich texture to elevate your Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa. Step 5: Incorporate the Cheese Sauce Once the cheese sauce is ready, carefully stir it into the crockpot mixture, ensuring it’s combined throughout. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top, creating a lovely cheesy layer that will melt beautifully during the final cooking phase. Step 6: Final Cooking Phase Cover the crockpot again and continue cooking on low for an additional 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it during this time; you want it to be bubbling, and the cheese to be nicely melted. This final step locks in the creamy goodness of your Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa. Step 7: Serve and Garnish Once cooked, serve the casserole hot right from the crockpot, garnishing with sliced green onions if desired. This addition adds a fresh touch to your hearty dish, making it visually appealing as you enjoy the rich flavors of your creation with family and friends. How to Store and Freeze Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This casserole often tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together. Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Ensure the casserole is completely cooled before freezing, leaving some room for expansion. Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then microwave or bake in the oven. Adding a splash of chicken broth can enhance moisture and freshness. Easy Make-Ahead: You can prepare this Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa in advance and then freeze it for an easy weeknight meal. Expert Tips for Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Soften Cream Cheese: Always take the cream cheese out ahead of time to soften. This prevents lumps in your sauce, ensuring a smooth finish for your casserole. Cooking Time Matters: Keep an eye on the cooking time. Cooking on low for 6 hours maximizes flavors and prevents the pierogies from becoming mushy, enhancing your Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa. Browning for Flavor: For a deeper, richer taste, brown the kielbasa slices in a pan before adding them to the crockpot. This step adds a delightful smoky flavor to your dish. Lid Lifting Caution: Avoid frequently lifting the lid while cooking. Each time you do so, you release heat and steam, which can extend cooking time and affect texture. Freezing Tips: If you plan to freeze the casserole, let it cool completely, and use an airtight container. Don’t fill it to the brim; allow space for the casserole to expand when frozen. Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Variations Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your own! Every twist can elevate the comforting experience to new heights. Spicy Sausage: Substitute kielbasa for andouille or chorizo for a delicious heat that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. Your family will love this extra kick! Veggie Delight: Add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even spinach to the mix for color and nutrition. This way, you can sneak in some extra vegetables without sacrificing flavor. Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a unique flavor twist. Everyone has a cheesy favorite, and this variation is sure to please. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pierogies to make this casserole suitable for those with dietary restrictions without compromising taste. It’s comforting for everyone at the table! Creamy Mushroom: Add sautéed mushrooms to the casserole for an earthy depth. This will bring a gourmet touch to your dish that your guests will rave about. Herbed Twist: Add fresh herbs like dill or chives for an aromatic lift. This simple addition can brighten up the dish and enhance the overall flavor profile. Mixed Greens: Serve alongside a fresh mixed greens salad to balance the richness. Pair it with a tangy vinaigrette to refresh your palate. Freezer-Friendly: Prepare extra portions to freeze, ensuring you have a comforting meal ready on those busy nights. Just thaw and heat, and enjoy that homemade taste again! For more comforting meals, I highly recommend trying out my Garlic Butter Salmon for a delightful family combination, or encapsulate summer vibes with my Twist Refreshing Summer drink to serve alongside this hearty casserole. Enjoy the creations that ensure no one stays bored with fast food! Make Ahead Options This Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is ideal for meal prep, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights! You can prepare the casserole base (frozen pierogi, kielbasa, chicken broth, and shredded cheese) up to 24 hours in advance by mixing everything in the crockpot and refrigerating overnight. For the cheese sauce, prepare it within 3 days, but be sure to warm it gently to prevent lumps when you’re ready to finish the dish. Just before serving, stir the cheese sauce into the casserole and cook on low for an additional 30 minutes. This way, your comforting meal stays just as delicious and saves you precious time! What to Serve with Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Creating a delectable meal around this cozy casserole can transform dinner into a cherished family moment. Simple Mixed Greens Salad: A light and refreshing addition, this salad balances the richness of the casserole with a splash of tart vinaigrette. Crisp greens and crunchy cucumbers will elevate your dining experience. Sautéed Green Beans: These vibrant green beans provide a delightful snap and a fresh crunch. Simmer them in garlic and butter for an easy side that complements the creamy casserole perfectly. Buttered Corn on the Cob: Sweet, tender corn is a classic pairing that adds a pop of sweetness. The buttery flavor complements the savory elements of your dish wonderfully. Garlic Bread: Crisp and fragrant garlic bread offers a satisfying contrast to the creamy texture of the casserole. Perfect for soaking up every delicious bite! Creamy Coleslaw: This cool, crisp slaw adds a refreshing texture and a hint of vinegar that cuts through the richness. It’s an excellent choice to round out your meal. Sweet Apple Cider: For a drink that pairs beautifully, serve a chilled glass of sweet apple cider. Its fruity notes will enhance the flavors of the casserole while cooling it down. Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note! These warm, soft cookies are nostalgia on a plate and a lovely treat to round out your comforting dinner. Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right pierogi? Absolutely! When selecting pierogi, I recommend opting for Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies for their delightful texture and flavor. If possible, make sure they’re frozen, as they’ll maintain their structure beautifully during cooking. Look for pierogi that are free of any dark spots or freezer burn for the best results. What’s the best way to store leftovers? Very good question! Leftovers from your Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You’ll find that the flavors actually improve after a day as they meld together, making for a tastier meal! Can I freeze the casserole? Absolutely! To freeze, first allow your casserole to cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container, ensuring there’s room for expansion—this will typically be up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge, and then reheat in the microwave or oven. A splash of chicken broth can help maintain moisture during reheating! What if my pierogi become mushy? Ah, the classic struggle! To prevent mushy pierogi, avoid lifting the lid of your crockpot frequently while cooking, as this releases steam and heat, impacting cooking time. Also, cooking on low for 6 hours allows for a gentle cooking process that protects the pierogi’s structure. If your pierogi does turn out a bit soft, don’t fret— a savory cheese sauce can mask the texture issues wonderfully. Is this casserole okay for special diets or allergies? Yes, it can be! If you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, feel free to substitute kielbasa with turkey for a lighter option or even choose a plant-based sausage. Additionally, if you’re concerned about dairy, you can experiment with dairy-free cream cheese and cheese alternatives. Just make sure to check allergen information on your products when shopping! Comforting Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa This Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a delightful reminder of cozy family dinners, blending creamy cheese and tender pierogi effortlessly. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 6 hours hrsCheese Sauce Preparation Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 6 hours hrs 45 minutes mins Servings: 8 servingsCourse: CasseroleCuisine: PolishCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Casserole1 package Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies frozen for convenience1 lb Kielbasa smoked or turkey for lighter option4 cups Chicken Broth low-sodium recommended2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese reserve some for topping8 oz Cream Cheese softened to room temperatureto taste Saltto taste PepperFor the Cheese Sauce1 cup Remaining Chicken Brothto taste Additional Shredded Cheese for topping Equipment 4-6 quart crockpotSmall saucepan Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a 4-6 quart crockpot, add the frozen Mrs. T's Cheddar Pierogies, sliced kielbasa, 3 cups of chicken broth, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Gently stir everything together.Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring an even distribution throughout the dish.Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6 hours, ideally on low for better flavor.About 30 minutes before serving, warm the remaining 1 cup of chicken broth and 8 oz of cream cheese in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth.Stir the cheese sauce into the crockpot mixture and top with the remaining shredded cheese.Continue cooking on low for an additional 30 minutes until bubbling and cheese is melted.Serve hot from the crockpot, garnishing with sliced green onions if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 2mg NotesSoften cream cheese ahead of time to prevent lumps. Browning kielbasa before adding enhances flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
