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This crockpot pierogi casserole with kielbasa is my go-to comfort food when I need something hearty and effortless that feeds a crowd. Creamy, cheesy, and full of smoky sausage flavor, it is a hands-off meal you can throw together and walk away until dinnertime.
I first whipped this up on a busy Sunday when I had pierogies in the freezer and no plan for dinner. My family now asks for it whenever we need a cozy meal with plenty of leftovers.
Ingredients
- Frozen cheddar pierogies: these are the backbone of the dish look for ones with generous cheesy filling
- Kielbasa: sliced smoky and slightly spicy it infuses the whole casserole with deep flavor try to find one with a natural casing if possible
- Chicken broth: creates a savory sauce base use low sodium for more control over salt
- Cream cheese: ensures the sauce is smooth and velvety choose a block for best melting
- Shredded cheddar cheese: melts beautifully and gives strong cheesy flavor sharp cheddar works well here
- Salt and pepper to taste: balance and highlights all the flavors
- Optional Sliced green onions: for a fresh finishing touch select firm bright green stalks
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Assemble Ingredients in the Crockpot:
- Add three cups of chicken broth frozen pierogies sliced kielbasa and one cup of shredded cheddar cheese into your slow cooker Gently stir everything to distribute evenly without breaking up the pierogies
- Slow Cook:
- Secure the lid and cook on high for three to four hours or on low for six hours If you are home give it a gentle stir every hour or so to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- About thirty minutes before the end heat cream cheese and the remaining one cup of chicken broth together either in the microwave or in a small saucepan on the stove Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps of cheese
- Add the Cheese Sauce:
- Pour the hot cream cheese mixture into the crockpot stirring it well so every pierogi and piece of kielbasa is coated Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar on top for more flavor and gooey texture
- Finish Cooking and Serve:
- Cover the crockpot and let everything cook on low for another thirty minutes so the flavors meld and the cheese melts into all the nooks Serve the casserole piping hot with spoonfuls of melted cheese and garnish with green onions if you like
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My favorite part of this dish is the smoked kielbasa which soaks into the creamy sauce and gives every bite richness. The first time I made this my kids argued over who got the last pierogi and now I always make a double batch.
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. This casserole keeps well in the fridge for three to four days. Reheat portions gently in the microwave or in a low oven until warmed through. For freezing let it chill fully first then freeze in individual containers for grab-and-go meals.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap in turkey or chicken sausage for the kielbasa if you need something lighter. Frozen potato pierogies work well too and add a different flavor. If you want to add greens stir a handful of spinach in for the last thirty minutes.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is filling enough for dinner on its own but I like to serve it alongside a crunchy green salad or simple steamed vegetables. It makes a great potluck or party main dish and people always come back for seconds.
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Cultural Context
Pierogies and kielbasa are both Central and Eastern European staples. This dish takes traditional flavors and turns them into an American-style casserole that works in the modern kitchen. It is a nod to old-country comfort food now updated for the slow cooker era.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh pierogies may be used. Monitor cook time, as they will soften more quickly than frozen varieties.
- → How can I prevent the pierogies from sticking during cooking?
Stir gently once or twice during the cooking process and ensure the cheese sauce is evenly distributed.
- → What type of kielbasa works best?
Smoked pork or beef kielbasa adds ideal flavor, but turkey or chicken sausage can be used as alternatives.
- → Can this casserole be made ahead?
Absolutely. It reheats well. Store leftovers in an airtight container and warm before serving.
- → How do I add more vegetables?
You can stir in cooked spinach, sautéed onions, or bell peppers before serving for extra color and nutrients.