Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa
Prepare for ultimate comfort food with this incredibly easy and deeply satisfying Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole. Featuring tender pierogies, savory kielbasa, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family meal. Just set it and forget it, then return to a heartwarming culinary masterpiece that's packed with flavor.
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
6 hours 30 minutes (on low) or 3 hours 30 minutes (on high)
Total Time
6 hours 50 minutes (on low) or 3 hours 50 minutes (on high)
Servings
6-8 servings
Keywords
Why This Recipe Delivers
- Effortless preparation with minimal hands-on time, perfect for busy schedules.
- Combines tender pierogies, smoky kielbasa, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce for ultimate comfort.
- A true crowd-pleaser that satisfies even the pickiest eaters.
- Cooking in a slow cooker allows flavors to meld beautifully for a deeply satisfying taste.
- Hearty and filling, making it a complete meal in one pot.
Ingredients
- 3 packages (approximately 1.2 kg / 2.6 lbs) Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies, frozen
- 454 g (1 lb) kielbasa, sliced into 1.5 cm (0.6 inch) rounds
- 950 mL (4 cups) chicken broth, divided
- 226 g (2 cups) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 block (226 g / 8 oz) cream cheese, softened
Instructions
- In a 4-6 quart (3.8-5.7 liter) crockpot or slow cooker, add the frozen Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies, the sliced kielbasa, 710 mL (3 cups) of the chicken broth, and 113 g (1 cup) of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Stir the ingredients gently to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the crockpot. This helps all components cook uniformly and absorb flavors.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Starting with a base seasoning helps build the overall flavor profile of the casserole.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 3-4 hours, or on low for 6 hours. Allowing the pierogies and kielbasa to slowly cook will enable them to absorb the broth and cheese flavors, creating a rich and hearty casserole. For deeper flavor development, the longer cooking time on low is highly recommended.
- Approximately 30 minutes before the casserole is scheduled to finish cooking, begin preparing the creamy topping. Place the block of cream cheese and the remaining 240 mL (1 cup) of chicken broth in a microwave-safe bowl or a small saucepan.
- Warm the cream cheese and broth mixture gently. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the cream cheese is softened. If using a stovetop, warm over low heat, stirring continuously.
- Whisk the cream cheese mixture until it is completely smooth and free of any lumps. This ensures a velvety texture for your topping.
- Pour the smooth cream cheese mixture from the previous step into the crockpot. Stir everything gently until it is well combined throughout the casserole.
- Sprinkle the remaining 113 g (1 cup) of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This layer will melt into a delicious, golden crust.
- Cover the crockpot again and set it to cook on low for an additional 30 minutes. This final cooking period allows the cheese on top to melt beautifully and all the flavors of the casserole to thoroughly meld together.
- When the casserole is bubbling at the edges and the cheese on top has melted into a golden, gooey layer, it's ready to serve. Spoon generous portions onto plates while hot. For an optional pop of color and fresh flavor, garnish with sliced green onions before serving. Enjoy your comforting meal!
Tools You’ll Need
- 4-6 quart (3.8-5.7 liter) crockpot or slow cooker
- Large spoon or spatula for stirring
- Microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife (for kielbasa and optional garnishes)
Essential Success Tips
- Do not thaw the pierogies before adding them to the crockpot; they cook best from frozen.
- For the best flavor, opt for cooking on the low setting for the full 6 hours, if time permits.
- Ensure the cream cheese mixture is completely smooth before adding it to the crockpot to avoid lumps in the final dish.
- Stir gently throughout the process to keep the pierogies intact and prevent them from breaking apart.
- Adjust salt and pepper throughout the cooking process. A little taste test before the final cheese topping can make a big difference.
Professional Cooking Secrets
- To enhance the savory depth, lightly brown the sliced kielbasa in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot. This develops a richer, caramelized flavor that permeates the entire casserole.
- Consider adding a touch of Dijon mustard (about 15 mL or 1 tablespoon) to the cream cheese sauce. Its tanginess will beautifully cut through the richness of the cheese and kielbasa.
- For a subtle smoky kick, incorporate a pinch of smoked paprika (about 2.5 mL or 1/2 teaspoon) into the initial seasoning blend in the crockpot.
Notes
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
- Variations: Feel free to add some sautéed onions or bell peppers to the crockpot for extra flavor and vegetables.
- Spice Level: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the initial seasoning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pierogi?
Yes, absolutely! While cheddar pierogies are classic for this dish, you can experiment with potato and onion, or even a mixed cheese variety to suit your preference.
Can this casserole be frozen?
While technically possible, pierogies can become a bit mushy in texture after freezing and thawing, especially when cooked in a casserole. It's best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This hearty casserole is quite filling on its own, but a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette or some steamed green beans would complement it beautifully.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: Approximately 650-700 per serving, Protein: 35-40g, Fat: 40-45g, Carbs: 45-50g (Estimates based on average ingredient values and portion sizes.)
Allergy Information
Contains wheat (gluten), dairy (milk, cheese, cream cheese). May contain soy. Always check individual ingredient labels for specific allergen information. For a gluten-free version, look for certified gluten-free pierogies.
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