There is something incredibly comforting and downright delicious about a well-made Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe. It combines the hearty, pillowy goodness of pierogis with the smoky, savory punch of kielbasa, all melded together by creamy mushroom soup and melty cheddar cheese. This dish is perfect for lazy weekends or busy weeknights when you want a warm, satisfying meal without a lot of fuss. Trust me, once you try this, it’s going to become your go-to comfort food that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple yet essential ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the tender pierogis to the smoky kielbasa and creamy mushroom soup, every component contributes to the dish’s irresistible taste and inviting appearance.
- 12 oz frozen pierogi: Choose your favorite filling—cheese and potato work wonderfully to keep the casserole creamy inside.
- 14 oz smoked kielbasa, sliced: Provides a bold, smoky flavor and hearty texture that pairs beautifully with the pierogi.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and aroma when sautéed, deepening the overall flavor.
- 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup: Creates the creamy, luscious base that brings the entire casserole together.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts on top for a gooey, golden finish that elevates every bite.
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika: These seasonings enhance and balance the dish, ensuring each layer is bursting with flavor.
How to Make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and sauté your diced onion until it turns translucent and fragrant. This simple step unlocks the onion’s natural sweetness and creates a flavor foundation that will infuse the whole casserole.
Step 2: Layer the First Half
Now, it’s time to build your casserole! In the crockpot, lay half of your frozen pierogi at the bottom in an even layer. On top of that, add half of the sliced kielbasa and the sautéed onions. This thoughtful layering helps blend the flavors progressively as the casserole cooks.
Step 3: Add the Cream of Mushroom Soup
Spread half of the cream of mushroom soup evenly over the first layers. This creamy layer will keep everything moist and tender, while giving the casserole that inviting richness.
Step 4: Season the Layers
Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika over the soup-covered pierogis and kielbasa. These seasonings bring depth and a subtle kick that enriches every mouthful.
Step 5: Repeat the Layers
Repeat the process with the remaining pierogi, kielbasa, onions, and cream of mushroom soup. Layering like this ensures every bite is beautifully balanced and full of flavor.
Step 6: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. This slow, gentle heat allows the pierogis to soften and the flavors to meld into a creamy, savory delight.
Step 7: Melt the Cheese
About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole, cover again, and let it melt into a golden, bubbly blanket of cheesy goodness.
How to Serve Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes can really brighten up the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe. Try a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. A dollop of sour cream on the side adds creaminess and complements the smoky kielbasa perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with crisp green salads or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness. Roasted Brussels sprouts or a simple cucumber salad offer refreshing, crunchy contrasts that round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or add a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual crockpot bowls or mini cast iron skillets to keep it warm and cozy at the table. Layering the casserole in clear glass dishes also lets the beautiful strata of pierogi, kielbasa, and cheese shine through—making it as lovely as it is tasty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop more, making for an even tastier next-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, layer everything in a freezer-safe crockpot insert or casserole dish, then freeze before slow cooking. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, then cook as directed. Cooked leftovers freeze well too—just make sure to cool completely before freezing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently either in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to keep moisture in. Add a little extra cheese on top before reheating to refresh that melty texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pierogi instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh pierogi will work beautifully here and may even reduce the cooking time slightly since they’re already soft. Just keep an eye on the texture as it cooks in the slow cooker.
What type of kielbasa works best for this recipe?
Smoked kielbasa is ideal because its smoky, savory flavor complements the creamy elements of the casserole perfectly. You can experiment with different flavors of kielbasa, but stick with cooked and smoked varieties for best results.
Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?
Yes, if you prefer, you can use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup, or even a homemade white sauce for a fresher taste. Just remember this soup is key to the casserole’s creamy texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the kielbasa for your favorite plant-based sausage, and choose vegetarian or mushroom-based cream soup to keep that rich flavor without meat.
How long can I leave the casserole in the crockpot?
For the best texture and flavor, cook on low for 6-8 hours as directed. You can keep it on warm for another hour if needed, but longer cooking may make the pierogis overly soft.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe is the kind of meal that brings comfort, flavor, and simplicity all in one pot. It’s perfect for busy days when you want something hearty and satisfying waiting for you at dinnertime. Give it a try and share the joy of this cozy casserole with your family or friends—you’ll be amazed at how quickly it disappears from the table!
Print
Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Polish-American
Description
A hearty and comforting Crockpot Pierogi Casserole layered with smoked kielbasa, sautéed onions, and creamy mushroom soup, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for an easy, hands-off meal that delivers rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Proteins and Dairy
- 14 oz smoked kielbasa, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, diced
Frozen and Canned Goods
- 12 oz frozen pierogi (your favorite filling)
- 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
Spices and Seasonings
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
- Paprika, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Onions: Heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the diced onion until they become translucent and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. This brings out their sweetness and softens the texture.
- Layer Pierogi Casserole – First Layer: In the crockpot, evenly arrange half of the frozen pierogi on the bottom, followed by half of the sliced kielbasa and all the sautéed onions. This forms the base of the casserole.
- Add Cream of Mushroom Soup: Spread half of the cream of mushroom soup over the first layer to add creaminess and hold the ingredients together.
- Season the Layers: Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika over the layered ingredients to enhance flavor.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process with the remaining pierogi, kielbasa, and cream of mushroom soup. Season again as desired.
- Cook in Crockpot: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours. This slow cooking allows flavors to meld and the pierogi to become tender.
- Add Cheese Topping: About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Replace the lid to let the cheese melt evenly.
- Serve: Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, serve the casserole hot for a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- You can customize the soup by using cream of chicken or cream of celery for a different flavor profile.
- Try different pierogi fillings such as potato and cheese, sauerkraut, or meat based on your preference.
- If you prefer a crispy top, transfer to an oven-safe dish in the last 10 minutes and broil briefly to brown the cheese.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving to ensure balanced flavors.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the microwave or oven.
