Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Easy Recipe
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with this incredibly easy Crockpot Pierogi and Kielbasa Casserole. This dish layers tender frozen pierogi, savory kielbasa, and sweet onions under a creamy, cheesy sauce, all slow-cooked to perfection. It's the ideal fuss-free meal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend gathering, delivering maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
4-5 hours on low
Total Time
4 hours 15 minutes to 5 hours 15 minutes
Servings
6-8 servings
Keywords
Why This Recipe Delivers
- Incredibly easy to prepare with minimal hands-on time.
- A complete meal in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
- Rich, creamy, and satisfying comfort food that pleases everyone.
- Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd.
- Versatile for customizability with different pierogi fillings or sausage types.
Ingredients
- 1 package (450 g / 16 oz) frozen pierogi (any variety, like potato and cheese)
- 450 g (1 pound) smoked kielbasa sausage, thinly sliced into rounds
- 240 ml (1 cup) sour cream, full-fat recommended for richness
- 1 medium onion (about 150 g), finely chopped
- 1 can (298 g / 10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 240 ml (1 cup) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus more for garnish if desired
- 55 g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, melted
- Salt, to taste (approximately 2.5 ml / 1/2 teaspoon)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste (approximately 1.25 ml / 1/4 teaspoon)
- Fresh chives, finely chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare your slow cooker by lightly spraying the inside of a 5.5-liter (6-quart) or larger crockpot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Arrange half of the frozen pierogi evenly across the bottom of the prepared crockpot. Spreading them out helps them cook uniformly.
- Distribute half of the thinly sliced kielbasa rounds and half of the finely chopped onion over the layer of pierogi. This ensures flavors are well-distributed throughout the casserole.
- In a separate medium-sized bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and the melted butter. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and completely combined, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Carefully pour and spread half of the creamy soup mixture over the kielbasa, pierogi, and onion layer in the crockpot. Use a spoon or spatula to ensure an even coating.
- Repeat the layering process: add the remaining frozen pierogi, followed by the rest of the sliced kielbasa and chopped onion, and finally spread the remaining soup mixture evenly over the top.
- Cover the crockpot securely with its lid and cook the casserole on the LOW setting for 4-5 hours. The cooking is complete when the pierogi are tender through to the center and the sauce is bubbly. Avoid opening the lid frequently, as this releases heat and extends cooking time.
- Approximately 30 minutes before the end of the cooking time, remove the lid and evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the entire surface of the casserole. Re-cover and continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a delicious golden crust.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the lid. Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly. Serve warm, garnished generously with fresh chopped chives for a bright, herbaceous finish.
Tools You’ll Need
- Slow cooker (5.5-liter / 6-quart or larger)
- Non-stick cooking spray
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or serving spoon
Essential Success Tips
- Do not thaw the pierogi beforehand; use them directly from frozen to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Ensure your kielbasa is thinly sliced so it cooks through evenly and integrates well with the other ingredients.
- Resist the urge to lift the lid frequently during cooking, as this significantly prolongs the cooking time. Each peek can add 20-30 minutes.
- For extra flavor, lightly brown the kielbasa in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot, creating a deeper savory note.
- Taste the soup mixture before adding it to the crockpot and adjust salt and pepper if needed, keeping in mind the kielbasa is already salty.
Professional Cooking Secrets
- To elevate the dish, consider using a good quality, smoked Polish kielbasa from a local deli; the flavor difference is remarkable.
- For an unexpected layer of flavor, caramelize the chopped onions in a pan with a tablespoon of butter before adding them to the slow cooker. This adds a depth of sweetness and umami that truly transforms the casserole.
- Introduce a hint of tang by adding 15 ml (1 tablespoon) of Dijon mustard to the sour cream mixture. It cuts through the richness beautifully.
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 until warmed through.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of pierogi, such as sweet potato or spinach and feta. You can also substitute kielbasa with smoked sausage or even cooked chicken sausage.
- Vegetable Boost: Stir in a cup of frozen peas or corn during the last hour of cooking for added vegetables and color.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
You can assemble the layers in the crockpot liner and store it in the refrigerator overnight (ensure it fits). Add the cheese in the last 30 minutes of cooking. Allow extra cooking time if starting from a cold crockpot insert.
What kind of pierogi should I use?
Potato and cheese pierogi are classic for this dish, but you can use any frozen pierogi variety you prefer. Just ensure they are frozen, not thawed.
Can I use fresh kielbasa instead of smoked?
While smoked kielbasa provides a distinct flavor, you can use fresh kielbasa. However, it's highly recommended to cook and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the slow cooker to ensure it's fully cooked and to remove excess fat.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: Approximately 550-600 per serving. Protein: 25-30g, Fat: 35-40g, Carbs: 40-45g. (Estimates can vary based on specific brands and exact quantities).
Allergy Information
Contains dairy (sour cream, cheese, butter, cream of mushroom soup) and gluten (pierogi, cream of mushroom soup). For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pierogi and ensure your cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free. Always check product labels for specific allergen information.
No comment