If you’re hunting for the ultimate comfort food that’ll leave everyone at the table asking for seconds, look no further than Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa. This hearty, cheesy, and irresistibly savory dish layers plump potato and cheese pierogies with smoky kielbasa, melting cheddar, creamy sauce, and just the right amount of spice. Not only does it come together in the slow cooker for easy prep, but it also delivers all those nostalgic, crowd-pleasing flavors in every single bite. Let me show you exactly why this is a dinner you’ll want to make again and again!

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s nothing complicated here—just a handful of kitchen staples that build layers of bold flavor and creamy texture. Each ingredient is chosen for its unique role, coming together in the most deliciously comforting way.

Frozen pierogies (2 pounds): These classic stuffed dumplings are the heart of the casserole, with their tender dough and creamy potato filling adding substance and satisfying bites.
Kielbasa sausage (14 ounces), sliced: Smoky, savory kielbasa infuses the dish with deep flavor and a touch of saltiness that pairs perfectly with the cheese sauce.
Yellow onion (1 medium), diced: A flavorful base that mellows and sweetens as it cooks, complementing the robust sausage.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Just enough to sauté the onions and kielbasa so they’re golden and aromatic.
Shredded cheddar cheese (1½ cups): For that gooey, melty top layer that makes every forkful wonderfully cheesy.
Cream cheese (8 ounces), softened: Lends a silky, tangy richness to the casserole’s creamy sauce.
Sour cream (1 cup): Adds a bit of tang and smooth texture, tying everything together.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): A little goes a long way, giving background warmth and depth to the sauce.
Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Balances out the richness with a gentle kick of heat.
Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): Just the right amount of smokiness for dimension without overpowering.
Chicken broth or water (¼ cup): Loosens up the sauce and keeps the casserole nice and moist.
Chopped parsley (optional): A sprinkle at the end adds color and a fresh, herby lift to rich flavors.

How to Make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Step 1: Sauté the Kielbasa and Onion

Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add your diced onion and sliced kielbasa, then let them cook together until the onions are translucent and the sausage is just starting to brown—about 5 to 7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the aroma in your kitchen gets irresistibly savory!

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, and chicken broth. Whip everything together until smooth and creamy; this is the luscious sauce that pulls the entire Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa together.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

Grab your greased slow cooker and arrange half of the frozen pierogies on the bottom. Next, sprinkle on half of the kielbasa-onion mixture, then spread half the cream cheese sauce over the top. Don’t forget a generous handful of shredded cheddar for that signature melt. Repeat the layers with your remaining ingredients to build up both flavor and anticipation!

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let everything cook for about 4 hours, just until the pierogies are soft and cooked through, and the cheeses are bubbling beautifully. This step is as hands-off as it gets, freeing up your time while the kitchen fills with mouthwatering smells.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, lift the lid and sprinkle over some fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Dish it up while it’s piping hot—every bite is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with all that kielbasa goodness.

How to Serve Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Garnishes

While the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a star all by itself, a handful of chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese right at the end takes it to the next level. You can even add a few thinly sliced green onions for a gentle bite and pop of color.

Side Dishes

This casserole is quite rich and hearty, so pair it with something light and crisp—think cucumber salad, tangy coleslaw, or roasted green beans. A simple mixed greens salad with a zippy vinaigrette is a foolproof option that balances all the creamy flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa family-style straight from the crockpot, or spoon individual portions into ramekins for a cozy, personalized touch. Hosting a potluck? Transfer portions to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and give it a quick broil for a gorgeously golden crust—everybody will be wowed.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), just let the casserole cool to room temperature, then scoop it into an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it perfect for delicious, no-fuss lunches or dinners.

Freezing

For even easier meals down the road, freeze portions of Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa in airtight containers. It stays tasty for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, pop a single portion in the microwave for a couple of minutes, stirring halfway through. For bigger servings, cover and bake in a 350°F oven until everything is hot and bubbling again (about 20 minutes). Add a splash of broth if it looks a little dry and enjoy that just-made flavor all over again.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pierogies instead of frozen ones?

Absolutely! Homemade pierogies add an extra-special touch. Just make sure they’re not parboiled and still have some structure so they hold up during slow cooking.

Is it possible to make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa vegetarian?

Yes! You can swap the kielbasa for a plant-based sausage, use veggie broth, and choose vegetarian pierogies. It’s still hearty and delicious with all the same creamy, cheesy vibes.

What’s the best way to soften cream cheese for the sauce?

Let your cream cheese sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before mixing. If you’re in a hurry, zap it in the microwave on low power in short bursts until soft, being careful not to melt it.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You bet—assemble the entire casserole right in your slow cooker liner, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Just plan to add an extra 30–45 minutes to the cooking time if starting from cold.

Do I need to thaw the frozen pierogies first?

No thawing necessary! The frozen pierogies go right into the crockpot, which saves time and helps them maintain their shape during cooking.

Final Thoughts

I hope this cozy, cheesy Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa becomes the low-fuss, high-reward dinner you look forward to as much as I do. Give it a whirl and see just how easy comfort food can be—your slow cooker (and your taste buds) will thank you!

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe

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4.9 from 19 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner. Layers of pierogies, kielbasa, creamy cheese mixture, and cheddar cheese are slow-cooked to perfection, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Frozen Pierogies:

2 pounds frozen pierogies (potato and cheese)

Kielbasa:

14 ounces kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds

Onion Mixture:

1 medium yellow onion, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil

Cheese Mixture:

1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream

Seasonings:

1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Liquid:

¼ cup chicken broth or water

Garnish:

Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Sauté Onion and Kielbasa: Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté diced onion and sliced kielbasa until onions are soft and kielbasa is browned.
Prepare Cheese Mixture: Mix cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, and chicken broth until smooth.
Layer Ingredients: In the slow cooker, layer pierogies, kielbasa mixture, cheese mixture, and shredded cheddar cheese.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4 hours until heated through and cheese is melted.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with parsley before serving.