Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a hearty and comforting dish that combines the flavors of pierogies, kielbasa, and cheese, all slow-cooked to perfection. This easy-to-make recipe is a great way to enjoy a warm, satisfying meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. The creamy, cheesy casserole is a wonderful fusion of Eastern European flavors, with the savory kielbasa complementing the soft, doughy pierogies.

Ingredients

• 1 package frozen pierogies
• 1 pound kielbasa, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Directions

1. In a crockpot, layer half of the frozen pierogies at the bottom.
2. Add half of the sliced kielbasa, chopped onion, and minced garlic on top of the pierogies.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Repeat the layers with the remaining pierogies, kielbasa, onion, and garlic.
5. Pour the chicken broth over the top of the layers.
6. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the dish to cook through.
7. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4-6 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes – 6 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the kielbasa and substitute it with vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for a meat-free version.
• Cheese Varieties: You can swap out the cheddar cheese for other types, such as mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses, to change the flavor profile.
• Add More Herbs: Enhance the flavor by adding dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for an added depth of taste.
• Spicy Option: Add a little heat by incorporating some red pepper flakes or using a spicy sausage instead of kielbasa.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply place the casserole in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the crockpot on low for 1-2 hours.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen? Yes, you can use fresh pierogies, though they may require a shorter cooking time in the crockpot.
2. What other meats can I use instead of kielbasa? You can use other types of sausage, such as Italian sausage or smoked sausage. Bacon or ham would also be good alternatives.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it overnight before cooking. Just add the cheese near the end of the cooking time.
4. Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, this casserole can be frozen before cooking. Layer the ingredients, then cover and freeze. To cook, thaw in the fridge overnight and cook as directed.
5. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe? Yes, simply omit the kielbasa and add your choice of vegetables to replace the meat.
6. How do I make the casserole creamier? You can add a bit of sour cream or cream cheese to the layers before cooking to give the dish a creamier texture.
7. What type of pierogies work best for this casserole? Any type of frozen pierogies will work, but traditional potato and cheese pierogies are the most common choice.
8. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
9. What should I serve this casserole with? A simple green salad or steamed vegetables would be a great side dish to balance the richness of the casserole.
10. Can I cook this on high heat in the crockpot? Yes, you can cook this casserole on high for 2-3 hours, but the texture and flavors may be better when cooked on low for a longer time.

Conclusion

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a simple yet delicious dish that is perfect for busy weekdays or weekend meals. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe delivers a comforting, flavorful casserole that everyone will enjoy. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with some variations, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!

Print