Slow Cooker Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa – Creamy & Cheesy Comfort Food

There is something magical about a slow cooker meal that requires minimal effort but delivers big on flavor. This Slow Cooker Pierogi Casserole is exactly that—a creamy, cheesy, and hearty dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. If you love comfort food that doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen, you’re in for a treat.

Imagine tender pierogies, smoky kielbasa, and a rich, cheesy sauce coming together effortlessly in your slow cooker. The slow-cooked flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that is indulgent yet incredibly easy to make. Whether you need a quick family dinner, a cozy meal for a chilly night, or a potluck favorite that will disappear in minutes, this casserole has you covered.

I first discovered this dish when I was searching for an easy dinner that would satisfy my family’s love for creamy, cheesy flavors. Traditional pierogies are already a favorite in our house, but combining them with kielbasa and a luscious sauce turned them into something even more special. After a few tweaks and trials, I finally landed on the perfect balance of flavors.

One of the best parts about this recipe is how simple it is. You can throw everything into the slow cooker, let it do the work, and come back to a meal that tastes like you spent hours preparing it. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients, it’s budget-friendly and great for feeding a crowd.

So, if you’re looking for a no-fuss, all-flavor meal that your family will request again and again, this Slow Cooker Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the answer.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Pierogi Casserole Recipe

This recipe is one of those set-it-and-forget-it meals that delivers every single time. The combination of creamy sauce, cheesy pierogies, and smoky kielbasa creates a flavor explosion that keeps you coming back for more.

1. Ridiculously Easy to Make – With just a few minutes of prep, the slow cooker does all the hard work. No complicated steps, no long cooking times, just simple ingredients coming together beautifully.
2. Perfect for Busy Weeknights – If you have a packed schedule, this is the meal you need. You can start it in the morning and have dinner ready when you get home.
3. Incredibly Comforting – The creamy, cheesy sauce wraps around the pierogies like a cozy blanket. It’s the definition of comfort food.
4. Family-Friendly – Both kids and adults love this dish. The mild flavors of the pierogies and kielbasa make it a hit with even picky eaters.
5. Budget-Friendly – With simple, affordable ingredients, this meal won’t break the bank. Plus, it makes a large batch, so there’s plenty to go around.
6. Customizable – You can switch up the cheese, add veggies, or even make it spicy with a dash of hot sauce. There are endless ways to tweak this dish to your liking.

If you love creamy casseroles that feel like a warm hug, this recipe is going to become a new favorite.

Health Benefits of this Slow Cooker Pierogi Casserole

While this dish leans towards indulgence, there are still some nutritional benefits that make it a great option for a well-rounded meal.

1. Good Source of Protein – Kielbasa provides a hearty amount of protein, helping to keep you full and satisfied.
2. Balanced Carbohydrates – Pierogies contain a good mix of carbohydrates and protein, making them an excellent energy source.
3. Calcium from Cheese – The shredded cheddar and sour cream contribute to your daily calcium intake, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
4. Nutrient Boost from Onions and Garlic – Onions and garlic are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, making them a great addition to this dish.
5. Can Be Made Lighter – You can swap out full-fat ingredients for lower-fat versions to reduce calories and saturated fat without sacrificing flavor.

While this casserole is a cozy, indulgent dish, it also provides essential nutrients and energy for a well-rounded meal.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 3-4 hours on LOW
• Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
• Servings: 6

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 950mg

Ingredients List of this Slow Cooker Pierogi Casserole

The Casserole:

• 1 (16 oz) package frozen pierogies (potato & cheese work great)
• 1 lb kielbasa, sliced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil

The Creamy Sauce:

• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika

 Garnish:

• Chopped parsley
• Crumbled crispy turkey bacon (optional)

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions for this Slow Cooker Pierogi Casserole

1. Sauté the Kielbasa and Onions: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add sliced kielbasa and diced onions, cooking until the onions are softened and the kielbasa is slightly browned, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Make the Cheesy Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together sour cream, chicken broth, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. This will be the rich, creamy sauce that ties everything together.
3. Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Place the frozen pierogies in an even layer at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the sautéed kielbasa and onions on top, then pour the cheese sauce over everything. Gently stir to coat all the ingredients.
4. Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours. The pierogies should be soft, the sauce creamy, and the flavors well blended. Stir gently before serving.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top and add crispy turkey bacon if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

 

How to Serve this Slow Cooker Pierogi Casserole

• With a Simple Side Salad – A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the dish.
• With Steamed Vegetables – Serve with steamed broccoli or green beans for added nutrients.
• As a Standalone Dish – It’s filling enough on its own, but a slice of crusty bread on the side is always a good idea.

Pairing Suggestions

• Beverages: A cold glass of lemonade or iced tea pairs beautifully.
• Side Dishes: Garlic bread, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh tomato salad are all great options.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is perfect for meal prep, leftovers, and even freezing for later use. Since it makes a large batch, you may find yourself with extras. Luckily, this dish stores well, and with the right reheating methods, you can enjoy it just as delicious as when it was first made.

Refrigeration Instructions:

If you plan to eat the leftovers within a few days, storing them in the refrigerator is the best option. Follow these steps for proper storage:

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. Placing hot food directly in the fridge can create condensation, leading to excess moisture and soggy textures.
• Transfer the casserole to an airtight container or cover the slow cooker insert tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instructions:

If you want to save leftovers for a longer period, freezing is a great option. The creamy sauce may slightly change texture after freezing, but a quick reheat and stir will help restore its original consistency.

• Let the casserole cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into individual servings or store the entire dish in a freezer-safe container.
• If using a freezer bag, lay it flat to save space.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions:

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, follow these reheating methods to keep everything creamy and flavorful:

Microwave (Best for Quick Reheating)

• Place a serving in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a lid or damp paper towel.
• Heat on medium power (50-60%) for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or milk before reheating.

Oven (Best for Large Portions)

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Transfer the casserole to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
• Stir before serving to mix the sauce evenly.

Stovetop (Best for Preserving Texture)

• Heat in a non-stick skillet over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• Add a small amount of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently.

By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy this casserole just as delicious as the first time!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is an easy recipe, there are some mistakes that can affect the final result. Avoiding these pitfalls will ensure that your dish turns out perfectly every time.

1. Overcooking the Pierogies

• Mistake: Cooking on HIGH heat for too long can make the pierogies mushy.
• Solution: Always cook on LOW for 3-4 hours to keep the pierogies tender but firm.

2. Using Pre-Shredded Cheese

• Mistake: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
• Solution: Grate your own cheese for a creamier sauce.

3. Not Stirring Before Serving

• Mistake: The cheese sauce can settle at the bottom of the slow cooker.
• Solution: Stir the casserole gently before serving to evenly distribute the sauce.

4. Skipping the Sautéing Step

• Mistake: Some might skip sautéing the kielbasa and onions, which affects flavor.
• Solution: Always brown the kielbasa and onions first for a deeper, richer taste.

5. Using Too Much Liquid

• Mistake: Adding too much broth can make the sauce thin and runny.
• Solution: Stick to the 1 cup of chicken broth recommended in the recipe.

Avoiding these common mistakes will help you achieve perfectly creamy, cheesy, and flavorful pierogi casserole every time.

Pro Tips

Want to make this dish even better? Here are some expert pro tips to elevate your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa to the next level!

1. Toast the Pierogies Before Adding to the Slow Cooker

• If you love a slightly crispy texture, pan-fry the pierogies in a little butter before adding them to the slow cooker. This gives them a golden-brown crust that adds extra flavor and texture.

2. Add a Spicy Kick

• If you like heat, add a dash of hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or smoked paprika to the sauce. This gives the dish a little extra warmth without overpowering the creamy flavors.

3. Use Different Cheeses

• While cheddar is classic, you can mix things up by using:
  • Gruyère for a nutty flavor
  • Mozzarella for extra gooeyness
  • Parmesan for a sharper, saltier taste

4. Make It a One-Pot Meal with Veggies

• Add broccoli, bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the slow cooker for an all-in-one meal. Just be sure to add delicate veggies like spinach in the last 30 minutes so they don’t get too soft.

5. Double the Recipe for Meal Prep

• This casserole freezes beautifully, so making a double batch is a great idea. Store leftovers in individual portions for quick, satisfying meals.

These pro tips will help you customize and enhance your dish so you can make it perfect for your taste!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen?

Yes! If using fresh pierogies, reduce the cooking time to 2-3 hours on LOW, since they cook faster than frozen ones.

2. What can I substitute for kielbasa?

You can use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even diced cooked chicken as a substitute.

3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply leave out the kielbasa and add mushrooms, bell peppers, or plant-based sausage for extra flavor.

4. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pierogies and double-check that your chicken broth is labeled gluten-free.

5. Can I add more cheese?

Of course! If you love extra cheesy casseroles, add an additional ½ cup of cheese to the sauce or sprinkle more on top before serving.

6. Can I cook this on HIGH?

It’s not recommended, as it can make the pierogies too soft. Stick to LOW for the best texture.

7. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble everything the night before, store it in the fridge, and then cook it the next day.

8. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or on the stovetop over medium-low heat.

9. Can I use a different type of broth?

Yes! While chicken broth adds a mild, savory flavor, you can use vegetable broth or beef broth if preferred.

10. How can I make the sauce creamier?

For a richer sauce, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream before serving.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with smoky, delicious flavors. The slow cooker makes it effortless, and with simple ingredients, it’s a meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, a family gathering, or meal prepping for the week, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.

Now that you have the perfect recipe, it’s time to try it out! Let me know how it turned out in the comments. Did you make any fun variations? Tag me on social media with your photos—I’d love to see your creations! Enjoy every cheesy, delicious bite!

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