There’s something undeniably comforting about a slow-cooked meal that’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. And when that meal involves cheesy pierogies, smoky kielbasa, and a velvety sauce that ties everything together, you know you’re in for a real treat. This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the ultimate cozy dinner that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal, a hearty dish to feed a hungry family, or a crowd-pleasing recipe for a potluck, this one checks all the boxes.
The beauty of this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and the magic of a slow cooker, you can achieve a meal that tastes like pure comfort food heaven. The cheddar pierogies provide a deliciously doughy and cheesy bite, while the kielbasa adds a smoky, meaty depth of flavor. Everything is bathed in a creamy, cheesy sauce that coats each bite in indulgent goodness. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day, and the best part? You barely have to lift a finger to make it happen.
This dish is a staple in my household, especially when the weather turns chilly, and I crave something warm, filling, and effortlessly delicious. There’s nothing better than coming home to the aroma of slow-cooked comfort food filling the kitchen. It’s also an incredibly versatile recipe—you can switch up the cheeses, add veggies, or even swap the kielbasa for another protein. However you make it, one thing is guaranteed: this pierogi casserole will be a hit with everyone at the table!
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Recipe
This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is everything you could want in an easy, crowd-pleasing dish. It’s simple to prepare, requires minimal hands-on cooking, and is guaranteed to become a favorite. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love this recipe:
✔ Effortless & Hands-Free – The slow cooker does all the work, making this perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have time to stand over the stove.
✔ Ultra-Creamy & Comforting – Every bite is rich, cheesy, and indulgent, with just the right amount of smokiness from the kielbasa.
✔ Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will love the soft, cheesy pierogies and the savory, meaty goodness of this dish.
✔ Easily Customizable – Add veggies, swap the cheese, use a different protein, or make it gluten-free—this recipe is flexible enough to suit your preferences.
✔ Perfect for Leftovers – This dish reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy the deliciousness for days to come.
Preparation Time and Servings of the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including slow cooking time)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Servings: 6-8
Ingredients of this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Recipe
To make this creamy and cheesy pierogi casserole, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
- 3 packages of frozen cheddar pierogies (These little dumplings of joy are the heart of the dish—soft, cheesy, and satisfying!)
- 4 cups chicken broth, divided (Adds moisture and enhances the overall flavor while keeping everything from drying out.)
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened (Creates a luxuriously creamy sauce that coats every bite.)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided (Gives an extra cheesy boost to the dish—because you can never have too much cheese!)
- 1 lb kielbasa, sliced into rounds (Brings a delicious smoky, meaty flavor that complements the pierogies perfectly.)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste (Simple seasonings that enhance all the flavors.)
- Optional: ¼ cup chopped green onions for garnish (Adds a fresh, slightly tangy contrast to the richness of the dish.)
Step-by-Step Instructions to make the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole
Step 1: Layer the Ingredients
Start by prepping your crockpot by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. Then, pour 3 cups of the chicken broth into the bottom of the slow cooker to create a flavorful base. This helps prevent the pierogies from drying out during cooking.
Next, arrange the frozen pierogies in an even layer over the broth. There’s no need to thaw them—they will cook perfectly from frozen! Scatter the sliced kielbasa over the top, distributing it evenly so every bite gets that smoky goodness. Then, sprinkle ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top for an extra cheesy start.
Step 2: Slow Cook the Casserole
Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6 hours. As it cooks, the pierogies will become tender, and the kielbasa will infuse the dish with its deep, smoky flavor. The broth will keep everything moist, ensuring the pierogies don’t dry out.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
About 30 minutes before serving, it’s time to make the creamy sauce that will bring everything together. In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, heat the softened cream cheese with the remaining 1 cup of chicken broth until warm. Then, whisk the mixture until smooth and creamy. If needed, you can warm it in 15-second increments in the microwave, stirring in between, until it reaches a pourable consistency.
Step 4: Combine Everything & Finish Cooking
Pour the cream cheese sauce over the pierogies and kielbasa in the crockpot, making sure to coat everything evenly. Stir gently to distribute the sauce without breaking the pierogies. Then, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the crockpot again and let it cook on low for another 30 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
Once everything is hot, cheesy, and irresistibly creamy, it’s time to serve! Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of freshness, and dish it up while it’s warm. Serve this delicious crockpot pierogi casserole on its own, or pair it with a simple salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips & Variations
Make It Healthier – Add spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or caramelized onions for extra nutrients and flavor.
Switch Up the Cheese – Try mozzarella, smoked gouda, or Colby Jack for a unique twist.
Use a Different Protein – Instead of kielbasa, you can use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even ground beef.
Gluten-Free Option – Look for gluten-free pierogies at the store to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Add a Spicy Kick – If you love heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra spice.
What to Serve with Crockpot Pierogi Casserole
This rich, creamy, and cheesy casserole is a meal on its own, but if you want to serve it with some sides, here are a few ideas to balance out the flavors:
- Crisp Green Salad – A simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables – Green beans, carrots, or Brussels sprouts add a fresh contrast.
- Crusty Bread or Garlic Knots – Perfect for soaking up the extra creamy sauce.
- Pickles or Sauerkraut – Their tangy, briny flavors pair beautifully with the smoky kielbasa.
If you’re serving this dish for a gathering, you can pair it with a light soup or warm dinner rolls for a full meal experience!
Storage & Reheating of the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave with a splash of broth or milk to keep it creamy.
- Freeze: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen?
Yes! Just reduce the cooking time by 1 hour, as fresh pierogies cook faster than frozen ones.
How can I prevent the pierogies from getting mushy?
Cooking on low instead of high will help keep the pierogies tender without becoming too soft.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Comfort Food Recipe!
There’s something about this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa that makes it an instant favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy family dinner, a casual potluck, or just craving a warm and cozy meal, this dish delivers on all levels. The cheesy pierogies, smoky kielbasa, and velvety sauce create a combination of flavors and textures that everyone will love. Plus, the fact that it’s made in a slow cooker means minimal effort with maximum reward.
I’d love to hear how this recipe turns out for you! If you try it, leave a comment and let me know what variations you used. Did you add veggies? Try a different cheese? Spice it up? Whatever you do, I hope this creamy, cheesy, and comforting casserole brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine. Enjoy!
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Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa – Easy & Cheesy Comfort Food
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole is the ultimate easy comfort food with creamy, cheesy pierogies, smoky kielbasa, and a rich sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or potlucks, this set-it-and-forget-it recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 3 packages frozen cheddar pierogies
- 4 cups chicken broth, divided
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 lb kielbasa, sliced into rounds
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup chopped green onions (optional for garnish)
- 3 packages frozen cheddar pierogies
- 4 cups chicken broth, divided
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 lb kielbasa, sliced into rounds
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup chopped green onions (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Grease the slow cooker and pour 3 cups chicken broth into the bottom.
- Layer the frozen pierogies evenly, then add the sliced kielbasa and ½ cup cheddar cheese on top.
- Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6 hours.
- In a saucepan or microwave, warm cream cheese with 1 cup chicken broth, whisking until smooth.
- Pour the cream cheese sauce into the slow cooker and stir gently to combine.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese on top, cover, and cook on low for another 30 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm.
Notes
- Add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Swap cheddar for gouda or mozzarella for a different cheesy twist.
- Use turkey sausage or chicken kielbasa for a lighter option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American, Eastern EuropeanAmerican, Eastern European