If you’re craving comfort food that’s both hearty and effortless, the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Imagine layers of tender frozen cheese pierogi, smoky kielbasa, and sweet onions, all bathed in a luscious sour cream and chicken broth mixture, then slow-cooked to perfection. This dish bursts with flavor and is ideal for busy days when you want something warm and satisfying without the fuss. It’s truly a game changer for anyone who loves Eastern European-inspired home cooking but appreciates the convenience of a slow cooker.

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple, familiar, and each one brings something special to the dish — from creamy richness to savory depth and a touch of freshness that balances everything beautifully.

24 frozen cheese pierogi: The star of the casserole, providing a chewy, cheesy base that soaks up all the flavors.
14 ounces kielbasa, sliced into rounds: Adds smoky, meaty richness and a satisfying texture.
1 medium onion, thinly sliced: Brings natural sweetness and a bit of crunch when cooked down.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly throughout, creating gooey pockets of flavor.
1 cup sour cream: Gives tangy creaminess and helps create the luscious sauce.
1 cup chicken broth: Lightens the sauce while infusing gentle savory notes.
2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces: Adds richness and helps brown the top when cooking finishes.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a warm, subtle garlicky background without overpowering.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and balances the richness.
Chopped green onions for garnish (optional): Offers a fresh, vibrant pop of color and mild onion flavor at serving.

How to Make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker

Start by lightly greasing the inside of your slow cooker to prevent sticking and ensure an easy cleanup. This simple step makes a big difference in maintaining the integrity of your casserole’s beautiful layers.

Step 2: Layer the Pierogi, Kielbasa, Onion, and Cheese

Place half of the frozen cheese pierogi evenly along the bottom of the slow cooker. Then add half of the sliced kielbasa and the thinly sliced onion. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Repeat these layers with the remaining ingredients, creating a delicious build-up of flavors and textures.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This creamy blend will soak into the layers as it cooks, infusing the casserole with its rich, tangy flavor.

Step 4: Pour and Add Butter

Carefully pour the sauce evenly over the layered pierogi, kielbasa, onions, and cheese. Dot the top with the small pieces of butter, which will melt and add a lovely richness and slight golden finish to the casserole.

Step 5: Slow Cook Until Tender and Hot

Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know the dish is ready when the pierogi are tender and hot all the way through, and the kielbasa is juicy and flavorful. Give it a gentle stir before serving to incorporate all those tasty layers perfectly.

How to Serve Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh chopped green onions sprinkled on top brighten the dish with their mild onion flavor and vibrant color. You could also add a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess or a sprinkle of paprika for a subtle smoky touch that beautifies the presentation.

Side Dishes

This casserole is richly satisfying on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to add freshness. A side of roasted Brussels sprouts or a light cucumber salad offer refreshing contrasts to the creamy, hearty casserole.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests, transfer the casserole to an oven-safe dish after slow cooking and finish it under the broiler for a few minutes to brown and crisp the top. Serving in individual ramekins or skillets can make an adorable presentation, perfect for cozy dinner parties or family meals.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld beautifully with time, making leftover slices even tastier the next day.

Freezing

This casserole freezes well when tightly wrapped or stored in freezer-safe containers. Freeze portions for up to 2 months, making it a great option for prepping meals ahead or saving for later indulgence.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or in a covered skillet over medium heat to ensure the pierogi don’t dry out. Adding a splash of chicken broth or sour cream when reheating helps keep the casserole moist and creamy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pierogi instead of frozen for this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh pierogi will work perfectly and may reduce the overall cooking time, so keep an eye on them and adjust cooking accordingly to avoid overcooking.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

You can certainly omit the kielbasa and substitute with smoked tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist, maintaining the smoky flavors in a meat-free version.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cheddar?

Yes! While cheddar melts beautifully and adds sharpness, you can try mozzarella for extra gooeyness or a smoky gouda for a twist on flavor.

What if I don’t have chicken broth—can I use something else?

You can swap chicken broth for vegetable broth or even water mixed with a bit of seasoning, though broth contributes to the depth of flavor, so keep that in mind.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Doubling can be done but be sure your slow cooker is large enough to hold all the ingredients without overfilling, or consider making two batches to ensure even cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe has become one of my go-to comfort dishes for its simplicity, amazing flavors, and effortless prep. Whether you’re feeding family or impressing friends, this warm, cheesy, and smoky casserole is an absolute winner. I promise once you try it, it will find a permanent spot in your dinner rotation!