introduction
Since I was very young, cooking has always held a special place in my life. My name is Adam, and it was alongside my mother that I discovered the magic of flavors and homemade dishes. Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa brings that comfort into a single slow-cooker dish. It layers cheesy pierogies, smoky kielbasa, and a creamy broth so you can walk away and come back to a hands-off, hearty meal.
People search for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa because they want a simple, family-friendly comfort dish. Readers will learn what ingredients to use, how to layer flavors, and how to get the best texture from the slow cooker. If you enjoy easy slow-cooker meals, try this Chicken in Boursin Sauce with Garlic and Fine Herbs for a different take on crockpot comfort food.
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Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa
- Total Time: 370 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: None
Description
A hearty, hands-off slow-cooker meal featuring layers of cheesy pierogies, smoky kielbasa, and creamy broth.
Ingredients
- Cheddar pierogies
- Smoky kielbasa, sliced
- Creamy chicken broth
- Melted cheddar cheese
- Green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Layer the cheddar pierogies and sliced kielbasa in the slow cooker.
- Add shredded cheese between layers for extra creaminess.
- Pour the creamy chicken broth over the top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.
- Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Notes
For best results, spread pierogies in a single layer and avoid stirring until the last 30 minutes to prevent breaking them.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
why make this recipe
Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa tastes rich and savory. The pierogies absorb a creamy broth and the kielbasa adds a smoky, salty kick. This recipe saves time. It uses store-bought pierogies and kielbasa. Then the slow cooker does the work. You can prep in 10 minutes and let it cook while you do other things.
The dish suits crowd-friendly meals and weeknight dinners. It scales easily for a potluck or family gathering. It also solves common pain points: no hot stove babysitting, minimal cleanup, and predictable results. Use it when you want cozy comfort without the fuss. If you need a side that stands up to bold flavors, try the Cowboy Bean Salad with Lime Dressing to balance the richness.
how to make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa
Start with fully thawed or refrigerated pierogies for even cooking. Slice the kielbasa into coins so each bite has meat. Layer pierogies and kielbasa in the slow cooker, and add shredded cheese between layers for melt and creaminess. Pour creamy chicken broth over the top; it adds moisture and a silky sauce. Cook on low for six hours so flavors meld slowly.
Watch the edges near the end of cook time. If the broth looks thin, you can stir in a little extra cheese or a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water to thicken. If the casserole looks dry, add a splash more broth. Avoid overcooking on high; pierogies can get mushy and crumble if left too long at high heat. Low and slow gives the best texture.
Timing matters. Six hours on low usually yields tender pierogies with a cohesive sauce. Check at five hours; different slow cookers run hot. Use a wooden spoon to lift a pierogi and test texture. The pierogi should be soft but not falling apart. Finish with sliced green onions for freshness and color.
Ingredients
- Cheddar pierogies
- Smoky kielbasa
- Creamy chicken broth
- Melted cheddar cheese
- Green onions
Each ingredient plays a clear role. Cheddar pierogies bring potato and cheese filling with a pillowy texture. Smoky kielbasa adds savory, spiced pork and beef flavor. Creamy chicken broth creates the sauce and keeps the casserole moist. Melted cheddar cheese binds the layers and adds gooey richness. Green onions add a fresh bite and color at the end.
Swap options work well. Use potato-only pierogies if you prefer less cheese. Swap kielbasa for smoked sausage or diced ham for variety. Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt. For a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream. For lighter results, use reduced-fat cheese and broth. Choose quality kielbasa with good smoke and visible marbling for best flavor.
Directions
Layer the cheddar pierogies, sliced kielbasa, and cheese in the slow cooker. Pour the creamy chicken broth over the top. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours. Once ready, serve warm and garnish with green onions.
For best results, spread pierogies in a single even layer for the bottom. Sprinkle half the kielbasa and half the cheese, then repeat layers. Do not stir until the last 30 minutes unless the top looks dry. Stirring early can break pierogies. Near the end, stir gently to mix melted cheese and broth. Let the casserole rest 10 minutes before serving to thicken the sauce.
how to serve Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa
Serve this casserole hot and bubbling. The texture combines soft pierogies with tender kielbasa slices and a silky sauce. Offer a crisp side salad or roasted vegetables to cut the richness. Sauces such as sour cream, spicy mustard, or plain Greek yogurt complement the smoky sausage and cheesy base.
Present it for casual dinners, game nights, or potlucks. It pairs well with roasted Brussels sprouts or a vinegar-based slaw for balance. For a full comfort meal, add a green bean casserole; a great pairing idea is this Hamburger Green Bean Casserole for heartier sides.
how to store Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container within two hours of cooking. Stored properly, the casserole keeps for 3–4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven. For the oven, cover and warm at 350°F until heated through. Stir midway to distribute sauce.
Freeze if you need longer storage. Cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheat gently to avoid breaking the pierogies. If sauce separates after freezing, stir in a splash of broth while warming to restore creaminess.
Food safety note: reheat to 165°F internal temperature. Discard leftovers left out longer than two hours.
tips to make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa
Use thawed pierogies for steady results. If they are frozen, add an extra hour on low and monitor texture. Cut kielbasa into even slices so they cook uniformly. Use sharp cheddar for stronger flavor; mild cheddar melts more smoothly. Layer cheese inside rather than only on top to prevent a dry center.
Avoid overcooking on high. Low heat prevents the filling from disintegrating. If your slow cooker runs hot, reduce cook time by 30–60 minutes and check early. For extra flavor, sauté sliced onions and garlic first and add them to the layers. For a golden top, finish under the broiler in an oven-safe dish for a few minutes after slow cooking.
variation (if any)
- Vegetarian: Replace kielbasa with roasted mushrooms or smoked tempeh and use vegetable broth for a meat-free option.
- Spicy: Add diced jalapeños, a dash of cayenne, or swap kielbasa for andouille sausage for heat.
- Creamier: Stir in half a cup of sour cream or cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Cabbage and kielbasa twist: Add shredded cabbage to the layers for a lighter, more textured casserole.
- One-pan stovetop version: Brown kielbasa and onions in a skillet, add broth and pierogies, cover, and simmer until pierogies soften for a faster method.
These variations let you adapt the basic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa to fit diets and tastes.
FAQs
Can I use frozen pierogies?
Yes, you can use frozen pierogies, but extend cooking time. Add 1 hour on low and check texture. Thawed gives more consistent results.
Do I need to pre-cook the kielbasa?
No. Most kielbasa is pre-cooked. Slicing and layering it raw in the slow cooker warms it through and allows flavors to meld. Searing first adds extra browning and flavor but is optional.
How do I prevent pierogies from getting mushy?
Cook on low and avoid prolonged high heat. Use an even layer and do not stir early. Check at five hours and stop when pierogies are tender but intact.
Conclusion
If you want more recipe inspiration or similar slow-cooker ideas, check out this detailed version of Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa from That Oven Feelin, which shares useful assembly tips. For another cheesy take, see Crock Pot Pierogi and Kielbasa Casserole at The Country Cook to compare cheese and timing options. If you prefer a gluten-free approach, review the Pierogi Kielbasa Casserole in the Crock Pot guide at No Dash of Gluten for adaptation tips.