If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor, this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the perfect solution. This delicious dish combines the creamy richness of cream cheese, the savory flavor of kielbasa, and the soft, pillowy texture of pierogies, all cooked together in your crockpot for a meal that’s as easy as it is satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a warm, flavorful casserole that’s perfect for busy nights, family dinners, or potlucks.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just throw everything into the slow cooker, set it, and let it cook to perfection. The pierogies soak up all the delicious flavors of the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chicken broth, and kielbasa, creating a creamy, cheesy, and savory casserole. It’s the ultimate comfort food that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Easy and Convenient

The beauty of using a crockpot is that it allows you to set it and forget it. With minimal prep time, you can have a warm, hearty meal waiting for you at the end of the day.

2. Comfort Food at Its Best

This casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining cheesy, creamy pierogies with savory kielbasa. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.

3. Flavorful and Filling

The combination of kielbasa, cheddar cheese, and cream cheese creates a rich, savory base that soaks into the pierogies, making every bite flavorful and satisfying.

4. Minimal Ingredients

You don’t need a lot of fancy ingredients for this dish. Just a few pantry staples and some kielbasa are all it takes to make this casserole come together.

5. Versatile

This casserole is incredibly versatile. You can adjust the amount of cheese or broth to suit your taste, or swap out kielbasa for another type of sausage or protein. It’s a customizable dish that can fit your preferences.

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

Swap the Kielbasa: Feel free to use other types of sausage, such as smoked sausage, turkey kielbasa, or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
Add Vegetables: For an extra veggie boost, add onions, bell peppers, or spinach to the casserole.
Use Different Pierogies: While cheddar pierogies are the star of the show in this recipe, you can experiment with different types of pierogies, such as potato and onion or mushroom.
Add Spices: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to add spice.
Make It Lighter: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and shredded cheese for a lighter version of this casserole.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Slice the kielbasa into bite-sized pieces and set aside. Open the packages of pierogies and prepare them as directed, if needed.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot

In the bottom of your crockpot, layer the frozen pierogies, followed by the sliced kielbasa. Pour the chicken broth over the top, ensuring that the pierogies and kielbasa are well covered.

Step 3: Add the Cream Cheese and Cheese

Cut the cream cheese into chunks and add it to the crockpot. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, along with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Cook the Casserole

Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the pierogies are tender and the casserole is bubbling. Stir occasionally to ensure the cream cheese and broth are well combined.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the casserole is cooked through and the flavors have melded together, serve hot and enjoy! This dish pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or some crusty bread.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Frozen Pierogies: This recipe works best with frozen pierogies, as they hold up well during the long cooking time in the crockpot.
Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker casserole, you can reduce the amount of chicken broth slightly, or if you like it more soupy, add a little extra broth.
Stir Occasionally: If possible, give the casserole a stir once or twice during the cooking process to ensure that the cream cheese and broth are fully incorporated.
Season to Taste: Always taste the casserole before serving and adjust the seasoning as necessary. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or even some garlic powder or onion powder to enhance the flavor.

How to Serve

This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a simple side dish like steamed vegetables or a green salad. If you’re serving it at a gathering or potluck, consider adding some crusty bread or rolls on the side for dipping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if it has thickened too much.

Freezing

You can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in the crockpot or on the stove.

Reheating

To reheat, add a bit of chicken broth to help loosen the casserole as it reheats. Warm it over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen?

Frozen pierogies work best for this recipe as they hold their shape and texture during the long cooking process. Fresh pierogies may become too soft.

2. Can I make this recipe without kielbasa?

Yes, you can omit the kielbasa and substitute it with another protein, such as cooked chicken or a vegetarian sausage.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or any other cheese you prefer.

4. How do I make this dish spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the casserole to increase the heat to your liking.

5. Can I make this recipe in the oven?

While this recipe is designed for the crockpot, you can make it in the oven by baking it at 350°F for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the pierogies are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe to serve a larger crowd. Just make sure to use a larger crockpot and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

7. Can I use other types of sausage?

Yes, you can use any type of sausage you prefer, such as smoked sausage or turkey kielbasa, for different flavors.

8. Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Yes, you can add vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or spinach to make the casserole more colorful and nutritious.

9. How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

10. Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, this casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the perfect meal for anyone looking for a warm, comforting dish with minimal effort. Packed with rich flavors and textures, it’s a crowd-pleasing meal that requires only a few simple ingredients and a little time in the crockpot. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or bringing a dish to a gathering, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with every bite!