When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? A warm, hearty meal that wraps around you like a favorite blanket, igniting your senses and inviting you to gather with loved ones? Picture this: a rich, creamy casserole loaded with tender pierogi, savory kielbasa, and the unmistakable aroma of caramelized onions wafting through your kitchen. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you to a cozy kitchen on a chilly day, where laughter mingles with the comforting scent of home-cooked goodness. Allow me to introduce you to the delightful world of Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa—a dish that promises to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.
The first bite bursts with flavor as the creamy texture of the pierogi meets the hearty slices of kielbasa, creating a symphony of taste that dances on your palate. Each mouthful invites you into layers of cheesy goodness, where luscious morsels blend seamlessly with the earthiness of mushrooms and the zesty kick of spices, making every forkful a delight. The golden, bubbly cheese on top adds a dreamy richness, while the fragrant herbs sprinkle a fresh finish that tantalizes the taste buds. As this delicious casserole simmers in your slow cooker, your home fills with an inviting warmth, drawing everyone closer to the table, ready to dig into a dish that feels like a big hug.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa
The beauty of this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole lies not just in its comforting flavors but also in its versatility and ease of preparation. This dish shines as a centerpiece for a family dinner, a cozy gathering with friends, or even a weekend meal prep option. With minimal effort, you create a rich, mouthwatering meal that everyone will rave about.
Also, the satisfaction of knowing this casserole is made with simple ingredients makes it all the more appealing. You can quickly assemble it in the morning and let the slow cooker do its magic while you go about your day. The outcome? A hearty, filling dish that brings joy to the table, making it a standout choice for any occasion.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
To craft this delicious pierogi casserole, you need a few essential tools that streamline the cooking process and enhance the dish’s success:
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6-Quart Slow Cooker: The heart of your operation, a slow cooker allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring that all the flavors meld beautifully while you focus on other tasks.
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Whisk and Mixing Bowl: These are crucial for combining your creamy sauce ingredients thoroughly, ensuring every bite is infused with flavor.
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Cutting Board and Knife: A sturdy cutting board paired with a sharp knife makes slicing the kielbasa and onion a breeze.
As you gather your tools, take a moment to breathe in the joy of creating something nourishing for yourself and your loved ones. Preparation might feel simple, but the outcome will be anything but ordinary.
Ingredients for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa
Gather the following ingredients for a dish bursting with flavor:
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2 packages (16 oz each) frozen potato and cheese pierogi: The star of the dish, these tender dumplings provide a delightful base. Feel free to substitute with homemade pierogi or choose different fillings if you prefer.
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1 lb fully cooked kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds: This smokey sausage adds heartiness. Turkey or chicken kielbasa can work as a lighter alternative.
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1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup: This creates a luscious sauce, but you may use a homemade version or a different cream soup if desired.
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1 cup sour cream: For creaminess, substitute Greek yogurt if you want a tangier flavor profile.
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp or mild cheddar elevates the dish with its melting qualities.
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1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced: A perfect aromatic that lends sweetness as it cooks down.
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: This spice adds depth; fresh garlic works if you prefer the real deal.
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A pinch of warmth without overwhelming the dish.
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1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: This brings a hint of smokiness; sweet paprika can be a milder choice.
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley: Adding fresh herbs brightens the dish and makes it visually appealing.
How to Make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa
Creating this delicious casserole takes very little time and rewards you with flavors that will linger long after the last bite. Follow these straightforward steps:
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Prepare the slow cooker: Lightly grease the insert of your 6-quart slow cooker. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
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Layer the ingredients: Spread half of the frozen pierogi in an even layer at the bottom of the slow cooker. Then, top with half of the sliced kielbasa and half of the sliced onions, ensuring even coverage.
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Mix the creamy sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, garlic powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika until smooth and well combined.
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Add the sauce: Spoon and spread half of the creamy sauce mixture over the layered pierogi, followed by half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
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Repeat the layers: Layer the remaining pierogi, kielbasa, onion, sauce, and cheddar cheese in the same order as before.
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Cook slowly: Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours, or until the dish is hot and bubbly, with tender pierogi that melt in your mouth.
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Garnish and serve: Just before serving, sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips: Make sure the ingredients are evenly distributed so every bite delivers the perfect flavor combination.
Chef’s Notes & Helpful Tips
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Make-ahead tips: You can prepare the layers in advance and refrigerate them. When you’re ready to cook, just pop it in the slow cooker!
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Cooking alternatives: If you prefer a quicker method, you can adapt this recipe for the oven by layering it in a casserole dish and baking at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 45 minutes to an hour, until bubbly. An air fryer can also work, cooking at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes.
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Customization ideas: Feel free to swap out the kielbasa for smoked turkey sausage, or add some veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Overcooking the pierogi: Keep an eye on cooking time; too long can result in mushy dumplings. Stick to the recommended cooking duration for the best texture.
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Not greasing the slow cooker: Skipping this step can cause sticking, making cleanup a hassle. Always grease the bottom and sides to ensure easy serving.
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Ignoring layering: Layering helps ensure all ingredients cook evenly and enhances the flavor combination. Don’t rush this step; take your time for the best results.
What to Serve With Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa
Enhance your meal experience by pairing this casserole with complementary dishes. Here are some delightful ideas:
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Fresh Salad: A light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and roasted veggies bring a delightful crunch and healthiness to your meal.
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Sauerkraut: This tangy side not only complements the flavors of kielbasa but also cuts through the creaminess of the casserole.
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Bread Rolls: Soft, warm rolls are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
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Pickles: Adding tartness, pickles contrast beautifully with the dish’s richness, elevating each bite.
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Applesauce: This sweet and tangy flavor profiles nicely with savory dishes and can be a wonderful addition.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole as delicious as the first day:
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on a stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
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Freezer: You can freeze portions for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
Estimated Nutrition Information
While we don’t provide exact figures, this comforting casserole offers a balanced meal filled with protein and carbohydrates. Each serving provides a satisfying dose of cheese and flavor, so do consider portion sizes if you’re mindful of calories.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh pierogi instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If you’re using fresh pierogi, reduce the cooking time by 1-2 hours to avoid overcooking them.
2. Is this dish gluten-free?
This recipe as written contains gluten due to the pierogi and cream of mushroom soup. Look for gluten-free alternatives to make it compliant with a gluten-free diet.
3. Can I make this vegetarian?
Certainly! Replace kielbasa with a plant-based sausage or mushrooms and add extra vegetables for depth.
4. What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
If you can’t find smoked paprika, regular paprika or even a dash of liquid smoke can provide that smokey flavor.
5. Could I cook this on HIGH instead of LOW?
Yes, if you’re short on time, you can cook on HIGH for about 2-2.5 hours, but be cautious not to overcook the pierogi.
Conclusion
Every bite of this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa delivers warmth and happiness, making it the ultimate comfort food. The tender pierogi, seasoned kielbasa, and creamy sauce transform simple ingredients into a culinary hug on a plate. Sharing this meal with friends and family becomes a cherished memory, reminding us all of the joys found in good food and the love we share around the table. So, gather your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and prepare to indulge in a dish that doesn’t just fill your belly—it feeds your soul. Enjoy!
Print
Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting casserole with layers of tender pierogi, savory kielbasa, and creamy mushroom sauce, perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 packages (16 oz each) frozen potato and cheese pierogi
- 1 lb fully cooked kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley
Instructions
- Lightly grease the insert of your 6-quart slow cooker.
- Spread half of the frozen pierogi in an even layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Top with half of the sliced kielbasa and half of the sliced onions.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, garlic powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika until smooth.
- Spoon and spread half of the creamy sauce mixture over the layered pierogi, followed by half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Layer the remaining pierogi, kielbasa, onion, sauce, and cheddar cheese in the same order as before.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours, or until hot and bubbly.
- Sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley just before serving.
Notes
You can prepare the layers in advance and store them in the fridge until ready to cook. Alternatively, adapt the recipe for baking in the oven or an air fryer if preferred.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Polish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg