Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa

This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the ultimate comfort meal, perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and satisfying. Featuring pillowy soft pierogi, smoky sliced kielbasa, and a rich, creamy sauce, this family-friendly dish comes together with minimal effort in your slow cooker.

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The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. By layering frozen pierogi with savory ingredients and a simple whisked sauce, you create a meal that tastes like it spent hours being meticulously prepared, though it only takes about 15 minutes of hands-on time.

Ingredients

• 2 (16 oz) packages frozen potato and cheese pierogi
• 1 lb (450 g) kielbasa, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 (10.5 oz/300 g) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream
• ½ cup (120 ml) milk
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot

Lightly grease the insert of a 6-quart slow cooker to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Layer the Base

Layer half of the frozen pierogi on the bottom of the slow cooker, followed by half of the sliced kielbasa and half of the sliced onions.

Step 3: Add Cheese

Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese over the first layer.

Step 4: Repeat Layers

Repeat the process with the remaining pierogi, kielbasa, onions, and another cup of cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth.

Step 6: Combine and Cook

Pour the sauce evenly over the layered ingredients. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For an extra layer of flavor and a softer texture, you can sauté the onions in a little bit of butter or oil until they are translucent and slightly caramelized before adding them to the slow cooker layers.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily adapt this dish to your preferences. Use turkey kielbasa for a lighter version with less fat, or swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken soup if you prefer that flavor profile.

Serviervorschläge

To balance the richness of the cheesy casserole, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.

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With its savory aroma and melty cheese, this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole is sure to become a staple in your rotation. It is the ultimate solution for a stress-free dinner that delivers big on flavor and comfort.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use fresh pierogi instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh pierogi work well in this casserole. Cooking time may be slightly shorter, so check after 3 hours to ensure they don't overcook.

→ What can I substitute for kielbasa?

You can use turkey kielbasa, smoked sausage, andouille, or even cooked bacon pieces. Vegetarian options include plant-based sausage or extra sautéed mushrooms.

→ Can I make this on high heat instead?

Yes, cook on HIGH for 2 to 2.5 hours instead of 4 hours on LOW. Watch carefully to prevent the edges from drying out.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 350°F oven for 20 minutes until heated through.

→ Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Absolutely! Sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli florets work beautifully. Add them with the onion layers for extra nutrition and flavor.

→ Do I need to thaw the pierogi first?

No, use the pierogi straight from the freezer. They'll cook perfectly in the slow cooker and thawing them beforehand may make them too soft.