Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that’s incredibly easy to prepare, look no further than this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa. This dish brings together the savory flavors of kielbasa, the creamy richness of cream of mushroom soup, and the satisfying texture of pierogies, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a cozy gathering, or simply to make your evening a little easier, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 package (16 oz) frozen pierogies
• 1 pound kielbasa, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

1. Layer the Ingredients: In your crockpot, begin by layering half of the frozen pierogies, kielbasa slices, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
2. Repeat the Layers: Add the second layer with the remaining pierogies, kielbasa, onion, and garlic.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup with the chicken broth. Mix until smooth, then pour the mixture over the layered ingredients in the crockpot.
4. Cook the Casserole: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until everything is hot and the pierogies are tender.
5. Add the Cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole. Cover and let the cheese melt.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once the cheese has melted and everything is bubbly, serve your delicious crockpot pierogi casserole hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes – 8 hours 15 minutes

Variations

1. Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition and flavor, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the layers.
2. Use Different Sausage: If you don’t have kielbasa, you can swap it for another type of sausage such as smoked sausage or bratwurst.
3. Make it Vegetarian: Omit the kielbasa and instead add more vegetables, such as sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach, to create a vegetarian-friendly casserole.
4. Try Different Cheeses: While cheddar cheese is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for different textures and flavors.
5. Spicy Kick: For some heat, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or use a spicy kielbasa sausage.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. If it appears a bit dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.
• Freezing: This casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven or crockpot.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen?
   Yes, you can use fresh pierogies, though frozen ones are typically easier to layer and don’t require cooking beforehand.
2. Can I use a different type of sausage?
   Absolutely! You can use any type of sausage you prefer, like turkey sausage, smoked sausage, or bratwurst.
3. Can I make this recipe without cream of mushroom soup?
   Yes, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup or even make a homemade version using heavy cream and sautéed mushrooms.
4. How can I make this dish spicier?
   You can add crushed red pepper flakes, use a spicy sausage, or stir in some hot sauce before serving for a spicy kick.
5. Is it necessary to cook the pierogies before adding them to the crockpot?
   No, you do not need to cook the pierogies before adding them to the crockpot. They cook perfectly in the slow cooker while absorbing the flavors of the dish.
6. Can I add more cheese to the casserole?
   Yes! Feel free to increase the amount of cheese to your liking, and consider mixing different types of cheese for more depth of flavor.
7. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare it in advance by layering all the ingredients and storing the crockpot insert in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply place it in the crockpot and follow the directions.
8. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
   Yes, vegetable broth will work just as well for a vegetarian version of the casserole.
9. How do I make the casserole creamier?
   If you prefer a creamier casserole, add a little sour cream or cream cheese to the soup mixture.
10. Can I double the recipe?
    Yes, you can double the recipe, but make sure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the increased quantity.

Conclusion

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a simple, comforting, and filling dish that will please everyone at the table. The beauty of this casserole is how easily it comes together, with minimal prep and maximum flavor. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or looking for an easy crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this recipe has you covered. With its layers of savory sausage, pierogies, cheese, and a creamy sauce, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your crockpot rotation.

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