Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a comforting, hearty meal that combines classic Eastern European flavors with the convenience of slow cooking. This casserole is loaded with creamy pierogies, smoky kielbasa, cheese, and a rich sauce, making it a perfect dinner option for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. By using the crockpot, you allow all the flavors to meld together effortlessly, resulting in a warm and flavorful dish. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a new comfort food staple, this recipe will surely become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 2 (16-ounce) packages frozen pierogies (cheddar and potato or your preferred variety)
• 1 lb kielbasa, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Preparation:

Step 1:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2:
Add the sliced kielbasa to the skillet, cooking for another 3-5 minutes until the kielbasa browns slightly. This step adds extra flavor but is optional if you’re short on time.

Step 3:
In the crockpot, layer half of the frozen pierogies on the bottom. On top of the pierogies, add half of the kielbasa mixture. Repeat this layering with the remaining pierogies and kielbasa.

Step 4:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chicken broth, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered pierogies and kielbasa in the crockpot.

Step 5:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.

Step 6:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the pierogies are heated through and the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Stir occasionally to ensure the sauce evenly coats all the ingredients.

Cooking Note:

The frozen pierogies will cook perfectly in the crockpot, absorbing the creamy sauce as they heat up. To save time, you can skip browning the kielbasa and onions, but this extra step does enhance the overall flavor. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add an additional ¼ cup of chicken broth. You can also substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken if you prefer a lighter flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added color and a pop of freshness. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables such as green beans or broccoli to balance the richness of the dish. For a complete Eastern European meal, serve with a side of sauerkraut or a dollop of extra sour cream. This casserole is a crowd-pleaser at potlucks or gatherings and makes for excellent leftovers the next day.

Tips:

• For added texture and flavor, consider adding cooked bacon bits or caramelized onions on top just before serving.
• If you’re a fan of heat, toss in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce into the sauce mixture.
• Swap the kielbasa for smoked sausage or Andouille for a different flavor twist.
• This recipe can easily be doubled for a larger crowd; just ensure you have a crockpot large enough to accommodate the ingredients.
• To make it vegetarian, simply omit the kielbasa and use a vegetable-based soup and broth.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

3-4 hours (low setting)

Total Time:

3 hours and 15 minutes – 4 hours and 15 minutes

Nutritional Information:

Calories: 350 calories per serving (based on 8 servings)
Protein: 12g
Sodium: 780mg

Conclusion:

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy pierogies, savory kielbasa, and a rich, cheesy sauce. The ease of preparation makes it an ideal dish for busy days when you want something hearty but don’t have time to stand over the stove. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. With its Eastern European roots and slow-cooker convenience, this dish is perfect for any season, delivering warmth and flavor in every bite. Enjoy this deliciously simple yet satisfying recipe!

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