If you’re craving a hearty, comfort-filled meal that requires minimal effort but delivers big on flavor, look no further than this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa. With a combination of creamy cream cheese, tangy cheddar cheese, savory kielbasa, and perfectly cooked pierogies, this casserole is an absolute crowd-pleaser. Best of all, it’s cooked in the crockpot, which means you can set it and forget it until dinner time.

This dish brings together classic Polish ingredients in a way that is easy to prepare and full of flavor. The creamy, cheesy base creates a rich sauce that coats the pierogies and kielbasa perfectly, while the slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together for an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a potluck, or just a cozy weeknight meal, this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is sure to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is not only incredibly easy to make but also incredibly flavorful. The slow cooker does all the hard work, so you can enjoy a comforting meal with minimal time and effort in the kitchen. The pierogies soak up the creamy, cheesy sauce while the kielbasa adds a delicious, smoky flavor to every bite. It’s the perfect combination of hearty and comforting, and it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Additionally, this recipe is versatile—you can easily adjust it to fit your taste. Want extra cheese? Add more shredded cheddar! Prefer a bit of spice? Toss in some red pepper flakes. The recipe also works well for busy families or those who like to prepare meals ahead of time, as it can be made in the crockpot and enjoyed all day long.

Ingredients

Three packages of Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies
Four cups of chicken broth
One 8-ounce block of cream cheese
One cup of shredded cheddar cheese
One pound of kielbasa (sliced)
Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

While this recipe is already flavorful and satisfying, here are some variations you can try:

Add Vegetables

For added nutrition and flavor, you can include frozen peas, corn, or sautéed onions and garlic in the casserole.

Use Different Types of Kielbasa

If you prefer a spicier flavor, try using spicy kielbasa or smoked sausage for a bit of heat and additional depth.

Make it Lighter

To lighten the dish, swap the cream cheese with a lighter version, or use a lower-fat version of the kielbasa and reduce the amount of shredded cheddar.

Add Sauerkraut

For a more traditional Polish touch, add sauerkraut to the casserole for an extra tangy flavor that complements the kielbasa.

Gluten-Free Version

To make this recipe gluten-free, check that the pierogies you use are labeled as gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free options that taste just as good as the traditional versions.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Slice the kielbasa into bite-sized pieces and set it aside. If the pierogies are frozen, there’s no need to thaw them—just add them straight to the crockpot.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot

Start by placing the pierogies in the bottom of the crockpot. Then, layer the sliced kielbasa on top of the pierogies.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Cream Cheese

Pour the chicken broth over the pierogies and kielbasa. Cut the cream cheese into cubes and scatter it on top of the other ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Cook

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4–5 hours or until the pierogies are tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir halfway through if possible to ensure the cream cheese and broth are well incorporated.

Step 5: Add Shredded Cheddar Cheese

Once the casserole is cooked and the pierogies are tender, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover and cook for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese has melted and the casserole is hot.

Step 6: Serve

Once the cheese has melted and everything is cooked through, give the casserole a gentle stir to mix the melted cheese into the dish. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use frozen pierogies: No need to thaw them before adding them to the crockpot; they cook perfectly straight from the freezer.
Stir halfway through: If possible, stir the casserole halfway through cooking to make sure everything is evenly mixed and the cream cheese has fully incorporated.
Adjust the seasoning: Taste the casserole before serving and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Kielbasa can vary in saltiness, so you might need to tweak the seasonings.
For extra richness: If you love cheesy casseroles, feel free to add more shredded cheddar on top before serving.
Crockpot size: If you need to make a larger or smaller batch, adjust the amount of ingredients accordingly, but make sure not to overfill the crockpot.

How to Serve

This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a one-pot meal that is delicious on its own. However, you can serve it with a variety of sides for a more rounded meal:

Green salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a great contrast to the richness of the casserole.
Roasted vegetables: Serve it with roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for an added touch of flavor and nutrition.
Garlic bread: A slice of warm garlic bread or crusty rolls is perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce left in the casserole dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Freezing

If you want to make this recipe ahead of time, you can freeze it. Assemble the casserole (but don’t cook it) and store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and cook it in the crockpot as directed.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, you can warm the casserole in the microwave or on the stovetop. If reheating in the crockpot, heat on low for 1–2 hours until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh pierogies, but you may need to adjust the cooking time. Fresh pierogies usually cook faster than frozen ones.

2. Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can use other types of sausage like smoked sausage, turkey sausage, or even a spicy sausage to change the flavor profile of the casserole.

3. How do I know when the casserole is ready?

The casserole is ready when the pierogies are tender and the kielbasa is heated through. The cheese should be melted and bubbly.

4. Can I make this recipe without cream cheese?

You can omit the cream cheese, but it will make the casserole less creamy. You can substitute it with sour cream or use an additional cup of shredded cheese for creaminess.

5. How spicy is the kielbasa?

The kielbasa used in this recipe is typically mild, but if you want more heat, you can add spicy sausage or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.

6. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add vegetables such as onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to this casserole for added flavor and texture.

7. How long does this casserole last in the fridge?

Leftovers will keep in the fridge for 3–4 days when stored in an airtight container.

8. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe, but make sure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the increased volume.

9. Can I cook this on high heat instead of low?

Yes, you can cook this casserole on high for 2–3 hours, but cooking on low allows the flavors to meld better.

10. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Just assemble it, but don’t cook it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a delicious, easy-to-make meal that combines the flavors of creamy cheese, savory kielbasa, and comforting pierogies. It’s the perfect dish for busy nights or when you want something hearty without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. With minimal prep and a crockpot to do all the work, you’ll have a satisfying meal that your whole family will love. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a dish for a potluck, this casserole is sure to impress!