If you love the comforting flavors of Eastern European cuisine but want something effortless to put on the table, this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine tender, pillowy pierogi layered with smoky kielbasa, sweet caramelized onions, and creamy mushroom soup, all slow-cooked to perfection and topped with a blanket of melted cheddar cheese. It’s a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal that requires minimal hands-on time but delivers maximum warmth and satisfaction straight from your crockpot.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – just a handful of ingredients that work in harmony to create deep, inviting flavors, textures, and colors. Each item is essential to building those layers of comfort and richness.
- 12 oz frozen pierogi: Choose your favorite filling for a customized flavor base that becomes delightfully soft during slow cooking.
- 14 oz smoked kielbasa, sliced: Adds a smoky, savory punch and lovely texture contrast.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Sautéed until translucent to bring natural sweetness and depth.
- 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup: Acts as the creamy glue that melds everything together with earthy undertones.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Provides a melty, sharp finish to crown your casserole.
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika: These seasonings enhance and balance every layer for a perfectly seasoned dish.
How to Make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat and sautéing your diced onion until it turns translucent and fragrant. This step softens the onions and releases their natural sweetness, which complements the smoky kielbasa beautifully.
Step 2: Start Layering in the Crockpot
In your crockpot, arrange half of the frozen pierogi evenly on the bottom. Then, layer half of the sliced kielbasa and your sautéed onions on top. This layering sets a foundation for the flavors to meld as the casserole cooks slowly.
Step 3: Add the Cream of Mushroom Soup
Spread half of the cream of mushroom soup gently over the layers. This creamy element will seep into the pierogi and kielbasa as they cook, keeping everything moist and delicious.
Step 4: Season Your Layers
Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika over the casserole layers. These spices aren’t just for taste; they introduce color and aromatic qualities that deepen the overall flavor profile.
Step 5: Repeat the Layering
Simply repeat the layering process: pierogi, kielbasa, sautéed onions, cream of mushroom soup, and seasoning. Doubling the layers ensures every bite is balanced and full of flavor.
Step 6: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover your crockpot and cook the casserole on low heat for 6 to 8 hours. This slow cooking melds the flavors, softens the pierogi perfectly, and allows the kielbasa to release its smoky goodness.
Step 7: Melt the Cheese
About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top of the casserole. Replace the lid and let the cheese melt into a golden, gooey topping that makes this dish utterly irresistible.
How to Serve Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
Garnishes
A handful of fresh chopped parsley or green onions scattered on top adds a vibrant pop of color and a subtle fresh bite that cuts through the richness. For an extra touch, a dollop of sour cream can enhance the creaminess and bring some tangy brightness.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty enough to be a meal on its own but also pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides. Consider serving it alongside a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or steamed seasonal vegetables to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions or casual dinners, serve the casserole scooped onto warm plates with a sprinkle of smoked paprika on top for an enticing finish. You can also offer individual servings in small ramekins for a charming, personal touch that keeps things cozy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, any leftovers of this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days and tastes even better after the flavors have had some time to mingle overnight.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months by placing it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure it is fully cooled before freezing, and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, or cover the casserole dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated evenly and the cheese topping is bubbly again. Adding a splash of broth or water can help prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pierogi instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh pierogi can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly since frozen ones take longer to cook and soften thoroughly.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, by substituting the kielbasa with a smoky smoked paprika sausage alternative or sautéed mushrooms, you can enjoy a vegetarian version without losing the hearty, savory feel.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Definitely. Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. When ready, cook it in the crockpot as instructed, but allow for a bit of extra time since the ingredients will be cold.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
You can make a quick homemade creamy mushroom sauce with sautéed mushrooms, flour, broth, and cream, or substitute with cream of chicken soup if preferred.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Yes! Diced bell peppers, shredded cabbage, or sliced mushrooms can be layered in to add texture and extra nutritional value.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a warm, satisfying meal with minimal fuss, you really can’t go wrong with this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a big, comforting hug after a long day. I encourage you to give it a try soon—I promise it will become a beloved staple in your meal rotation just like it is in mine!
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Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Polish-American
Description
A hearty and comforting Crockpot Pierogi Casserole featuring layers of frozen pierogi, savory smoked kielbasa, sautéed onions, creamy mushroom soup, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for an easy, hands-off meal that serves 6.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 oz frozen pierogi (your favorite filling)
- 14 oz smoked kielbasa, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Onions: Heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the diced onion until translucent, which takes about 5 minutes. This releases their sweetness and builds flavor.
- Layer Ingredients in Crockpot: Spread half of the frozen pierogi evenly on the bottom of the crockpot. Next, add half of the sliced smoked kielbasa and the sautéed onions as the second layer.
- Add Soup Layer: Spread half of the cream of mushroom soup evenly over the layered pierogi, kielbasa, and onions.
- Season: Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika evenly over the soup layer to enhance the flavors.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process with the remaining pierogi, kielbasa, onions, and cream of mushroom soup, creating a second identical layer.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours until the pierogi are tender and all flavors meld together.
- Add Cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, cover again, and allow it to melt into a gooey topping.
Notes
- For best results, use frozen pierogi those do not require pre-cooking.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt, considering the saltiness of kielbasa and cream of mushroom soup.
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup or a homemade alternative for a different flavor.
- Serve hot with a side of sour cream or a green salad for a balanced meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.
