Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Recipe

Looking for a hearty and comforting dish that you can set and forget? Look no further! This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the perfect blend of savory pierogies, rich cheese, and smoky kielbasa, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just want leftovers to enjoy, this casserole will hit the spot. Keep reading to learn how to make this delicious dish and discover tips to make it even better!

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What is a "Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa"?

This dish is a simple yet satisfying casserole made in a crockpot or slow cooker, featuring frozen pierogies, smoked kielbasa, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. The pierogies—a classic Eastern European dumpling filled with mashed potatoes and cheese—combine beautifully with Polska kielbasa (a type of Polish sausage) to create a meal that's both comforting and full of flavor. It's the perfect dish for busy weeknights, game days, or anytime you need a warming, delicious meal with minimal prep.

Ingredients List for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

To make this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients that come together for a perfect blend of creamy and smoky flavors. Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need:

1. Pierogies

• 2 (16-ounce) bags of frozen pierogies (cheddar or onion-filled): Mrs. T’s is a popular brand, but any brand of frozen pierogies will work. Pierogies are potato-filled dumplings, often paired with cheese or onions, and they form the base of this casserole. They can be found in the freezer section of most grocery stores.

2. Kielbasa (Polska Sausage)

• 1 pound of smoked Polska kielbasa: This Polish sausage adds a smoky, meaty flavor that complements the creaminess of the pierogies and cheese. Slice it into rounds before adding to the crockpot.

3. Chicken Broth

• 4 cups of chicken broth, divided: Chicken broth will be used to ensure the pierogies cook evenly in the crockpot and stay moist without drying out. This adds depth to the overall flavor.

4. Shredded Cheddar Cheese

• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Cheddar cheese adds sharpness and gooeyness to the casserole. Use one cup during cooking and the other cup as a topping before serving.

5. Cream Cheese

• 1 (8-ounce) block of cream cheese, softened to room temperature: The cream cheese makes the dish extra creamy and rich. Make sure it's softened to ensure easy blending with the other ingredients.

6. Salt and Pepper

• Salt and pepper to taste: Basic seasoning to enhance the flavors of the dish.

7. Green Onions (for garnish)

• Sliced green onions for serving: These are optional but highly recommended for adding a fresh, bright contrast to the rich, cheesy casserole.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about casseroles like this is that they are highly customizable. If you don’t have all the ingredients listed above or just want to try something new, here are a few great substitution and variation ideas:

• Pierogi Variations: Don’t limit yourself to cheddar or onion pierogies. You can experiment with other flavors, like potato and bacon or potato and sauerkraut pierogies, depending on your preferences.
• Protein Variations: If you don’t have kielbasa on hand, try using other smoked sausages, such as andouille or even chicken sausage. You could also use ham or bacon for a different type of smokiness.
• Vegetable Additions: To make this dish a little heartier or to add some color and texture, toss in some veggies. Sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or frozen peas work well in this casserole.
• Cheese Variations: Swap out the cheddar cheese for mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for a spicier kick.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to prepare your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa from start to finish:

Step 1: Prep the Crockpot

Lightly grease the crockpot with non-stick spray or a small amount of butter. This will make clean-up easier and prevent the ingredients from sticking as they cook.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

Start by adding one bag of frozen pierogies to the bottom of the crockpot. On top of that, layer half of your sliced kielbasa. Follow this with small dollops of half of the cream cheese. Sprinkle with one cup of shredded cheddar cheese and season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Add Chicken Broth

Pour in two cups of chicken broth over the pierogies, kielbasa, and cheese. The broth will help the pierogies cook and keep everything moist.

Step 4: Repeat the Layers

Repeat the layers with the second bag of pierogies, the remaining kielbasa, cream cheese, and another cup of chicken broth.

Step 5: Cook on Low

Set the crockpot to cook on low for 4-6 hours. Alternatively, you can cook on high for 2-3 hours if you're short on time. Stir occasionally to ensure that the cheese is evenly distributed and doesn’t stick to the sides.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Broth

During the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the remaining cup of cheddar cheese over the top. Add the last 2 cups of chicken broth if the casserole looks dry.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Once the casserole is done, give everything a final stir and taste to adjust for salt and pepper. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.

How to Cook Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking this dish is incredibly easy, thanks to the slow cooker. The crockpot does all the hard work, ensuring the pierogies stay tender while the kielbasa infuses the whole dish with its rich, smoky flavor. Here’s a quick recap:

1. Grease the crockpot.
2. Layer pierogies, kielbasa, and cheese.
3. Add broth, season, and repeat layers.
4. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
5. Add final cheese and broth.
6. Stir, garnish, and serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pierogies: Make sure to stick to the cooking times. Overcooked pierogies can become mushy.
• Not Stirring: Stir the casserole occasionally to ensure the cheese doesn’t stick to the sides and burn.
• Skipping the Broth: The broth is essential for cooking the pierogies evenly, so don’t skimp on it.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To make your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa even more appealing, consider these serving tips:

• Family Style: Serve directly from the crockpot for a casual, rustic feel. Set it on the table with a ladle and let everyone help themselves.
• Individual Servings: For a more elegant touch, portion the casserole into individual serving bowls and garnish with green onions or a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

How to Serve Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

This dish is hearty enough to serve on its own, but if you’d like to round out the meal, here are a few serving suggestions:

• With a Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the casserole.
• With Bread: Serve with crusty bread or rolls to soak up the cheesy, creamy sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

If you’re serving guests, you can easily elevate the presentation of this casserole. Here are a few ideas:

• Add Fresh Herbs: Garnishing with parsley or dill can brighten up the dish and add a touch of freshness.
• Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: If you want a more traditional, rustic look, transfer the finished casserole to a cast-iron skillet and serve directly from there.

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe Tips

• Use Full-Fat Dairy: For the creamiest result, opt for full-fat cream cheese and cheddar cheese.
• Thaw the Pierogies: If you have time, let the pierogies thaw for about 20-30 minutes before adding them to the crockpot. This will help them cook more evenly.
• Don’t Skip the Stirring: Stir the casserole once or twice during cooking to ensure everything is evenly coated with sauce and cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole in the crockpot and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Q: Can I use fresh pierogies?
A: Yes, if you have access to fresh pierogies, you can use those instead of frozen. Just reduce the cooking time slightly.

Q: Can I make this without a crockpot?
A: Yes, you can bake this casserole in an oven-safe dish at 350°F for about 45 minutes, covered with foil. Stir halfway through.

Conclusion

There you have it—an easy, comforting, and delicious Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa recipe that’s perfect for busy nights or when you need a little comfort food. With smoky kielbasa, creamy cheese, and tender pierogies, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Don’t forget to experiment with variations and serving ideas to make this dish your own. Enjoy!

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