Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that combines the heartiness of pierogies with the rich flavors of kielbasa and melted cheese. It’s a perfect meal for busy days when you need a satisfying dinner with minimal effort. With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty slow cooker, you can have a warm, filling meal ready to serve to your family or guests.

Ingredients

• 1 package frozen pierogies
• 1 pound kielbasa, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Directions

1. In a crockpot, layer half of the frozen pierogies on the bottom.
2. Add half of the sliced kielbasa, chopped onion, and minced garlic on top of the pierogies.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Repeat the layers with the remaining pierogies, kielbasa, onion, and garlic.
5. Pour the chicken broth over the top.
6. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4-6 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes – 6 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 4-6

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the kielbasa and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version.
• Spicy Version: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a few slices of jalapeños to give the casserole a spicy kick.
• Cheese Variety: Try using a mix of different cheeses, like mozzarella or Gouda, to change the flavor profile of the casserole.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. If reheating on the stovetop, add a splash of chicken broth to keep the casserole moist.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen? Yes, fresh pierogies can be used, but be sure to cook them for a shorter amount of time, as they are already cooked.
2. Can I use a different type of sausage? Yes, you can substitute kielbasa with any other type of sausage you prefer, such as smoked sausage, turkey sausage, or even bratwurst.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prep the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. Just cover and cook the next day as directed.
4. Can I cook this on high instead of low? Yes, you can cook the casserole on high for 2-3 hours, but keep an eye on it to ensure the pierogies don’t overcook.
5. Can I add vegetables to this dish? Absolutely! You can add vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or peas to make it even heartier and more nutritious.
6. What kind of pierogies should I use? You can use any flavor of frozen pierogies, but traditional potato and cheese or cheddar pierogies work best in this dish.
7. Is this dish gluten-free? This dish is not gluten-free as pierogies typically contain wheat. You can look for gluten-free pierogies if you need to make it gluten-free.
8. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
9. How do I know when the casserole is done? The casserole is done when the pierogies are tender and the kielbasa is heated through. The cheese should be melted and bubbly.
10. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can substitute the cheddar cheese with any cheese of your choice, such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or a cheese blend.

Conclusion

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is an easy, delicious, and filling meal that requires minimal prep time and delivers maximum flavor. The slow-cooked flavors meld perfectly together, and the cheesy topping adds a comforting finish. Whether you’re making this dish for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

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