Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe

If you’ve ever wished you could bottle up the comfort of Grandma’s kitchen and serve it for dinner, Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the answer to your most delicious dreams. Imagine pillowy cheddar pierogies swimming in a pool of creamy, cheesy sauce with smoky kielbasa woven throughout — all gently cooked to melty perfection while you go about your day. This is the kind of crowd-pleasing, hands-off meal that transforms humble ingredients into a showpiece of flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting game night, or just treating yourself after a long week, this rich and hearty casserole is the definition of cozy convenience.

Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa comes from a handful of straightforward ingredients, each bringing its own magic to the dish. These essentials combine savory, creamy, smoky, and cheesy elements for irresistible flavor and texture in every forkful. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

  • Frozen cheddar pierogies: The star of this recipe! They absorb all the creamy sauce and deliver classic potato-and-cheese comfort in every bite.
  • Chicken broth: Adds rich base flavor to the casserole and keeps everything incredibly moist without watering down the taste.
  • Smoked kielbasa: Brings smoky, meaty depth and a satisfying bite, plus it nicely complements the cheesy elements.
  • Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly into the sauce for gooey, stretchy goodness and crowns the top with a golden finish.
  • Cream cheese: The secret to that lusciously creamy texture that makes the sauce silk-smooth and crave-worthy.
  • Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that draw out all the savory flavors and let the main ingredients shine.
  • Green onions (optional): Sliced fresh, they’re the ultimate pop of color and a mild oniony kick for garnish.

How to Make Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Step 1: Load Up the Crockpot

Start by layering the frozen cheddar pierogies, kielbasa slices, and shredded cheddar cheese right into your slow cooker. Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth (saving the last cup for later) — this sets up your base and lets the ingredients begin to mingle as everything cooks low and slow. Make sure the pierogies are spread out rather than tightly stacked, so they cook evenly and don’t stick.

Step 2: Slow Cook to Perfection

Set your slow cooker to high for 3–4 hours, or low for 6 hours, and let the magic happen. During this time, the pierogies soak up those savory flavors and the kielbasa gets even tastier. Try to resist the urge to stir too often, as this helps the pierogies stay intact and keeps the layers tidy. If your slow cooker runs hot, check for doneness a little earlier!

Step 3: Cream Cheese Upgrade

About half an hour before serving, gently melt the cream cheese with your reserved cup of chicken broth — you can do this in the microwave or in a small saucepan on the stove. Whisk until perfectly smooth, then pour it over the casserole. This addition delivers that dreamy, velvety texture and ties the whole dish together.

Step 4: Cheesy Blanket Finish

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole, put the lid back on, and let it finish cooking on low for another 30 minutes. The cheese will melt into a bubbly, golden layer on top while the cream cheese mixture works its magic below — get ready for the ultimate comfort food reveal!

Step 5: Final Seasoning Touch

Finish off with a good sprinkle of salt and pepper to balance all those creamy, cheesy, smoky flavors. Top it with sliced green onions if you want a fresh, zippy contrast. Serve it straight from the slow cooker, steaming-hot and irresistibly melty.

How to Serve Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Bring your Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa to life by showering it with thinly sliced green onions for brightness and a hit of color. For a bolder statement, try a dusting of smoked paprika or even a dollop of sour cream. Chopped parsley or chives offer a fresh, herby lift that pairs beautifully with the rich, cheesy base.

Side Dishes

To round out your meal, pair the casserole with something crisp and refreshing — a simple cucumber salad with dill, tangy sauerkraut, or sautéed green beans are stellar choices. Crusty bread or a light butter lettuce salad also help balance the richness, making this comfort dish feel complete without weighing you down.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to put a twist on the classic serving style, portion the casserole into individual ramekins for a dinner party or potluck centerpiece. For game nights or casual gatherings, serve spoonfuls in mugs or small bowls for cozy, handheld comfort. Leftovers also make a killer filling for stuffed peppers or as a topper for baked potatoes — the possibilities are endless!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors only get deeper and more comforting as they meld together overnight — some might argue it’s even better the next day!

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze individual portions or the whole casserole (once cooled) in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. For best results, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating so the pierogies maintain their texture and the sauce stays creamy.

Reheating

To bring leftovers back to their gooey, luscious best, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring in a splash of broth or milk to refresh the sauce if needed. If using the oven, cover with foil and warm at 325°F until heated through. Avoid overcooking to keep the pierogies from getting too soft.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pierogies instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If you have the time and a favorite recipe, homemade pierogies make the casserole extra special. Just keep in mind that fresh pierogies may cook a bit faster, so check for doneness earlier in the slow cooker.

What’s the best way to brown kielbasa for this recipe?

For deeper flavor, slice the kielbasa and quickly brown it in a hot skillet before adding to the crockpot. You’ll get caramelized edges and even more savory richness throughout your Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa.

Can I swap in other cheeses?

Definitely! While sharp cheddar is classic, feel free to mix in Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a little smoked gouda for a new spin on the flavor. Just be sure the cheese melts well for the creamiest sauce.

How do I make this gluten-free?

Seek out gluten-free pierogies (they’re becoming easier to find!), and double check that your kielbasa and broth are certified gluten free. The rest of the ingredients should be naturally safe for those avoiding gluten.

Is there a vegetarian option?

Yes! Simply omit the kielbasa or replace it with a hearty plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth. The rest of the Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa recipe remains the same, delivering all the cheesy, wholesome comfort in every bite.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to wrap yourself in a blanket of cheesy, savory warmth, you absolutely need to make Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa. It’s the kind of dish that’s easy enough for a busy weeknight but satisfying enough to impress at any gathering. Enjoy every creamy, smoky, joy-filled bite — and don’t forget to share the comfort with those you love!

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Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe

Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe


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4.7 from 6 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: ~4–4.5 hours (high) or ~6.5 hours (low)
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of a classic crockpot pierogi casserole with smoked kielbasa, creamy cheese, and a touch of green onions. This easy slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and potluck gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale

Pierogi Casserole:

  • 3 boxes (about 12 oz each) frozen cheddar pierogies
  • 3 cups chicken broth (reserve 1 cup)
  • 1 lb smoked kielbasa, sliced
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Creamy Finish:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional garnish: sliced green onions

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a 4–6 quart slow cooker, mix 3 cups chicken broth, pierogies, kielbasa, and 1 cup cheddar.
  2. Cook: Cook on high for 3–4 hours or low for 6 hours.
  3. Prepare Creamy Mixture: 30 mins before serving, warm cream cheese with reserved broth, then stir into casserole.
  4. Final Touches: Sprinkle remaining cheddar, cover, cook on low for 30 mins until melted.
  5. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper, garnish with green onions, and serve hot.

Notes

  • For extra depth, lightly brown the kielbasa before adding.
  • Avoid over-stirring to keep pierogies intact.
  • Customize with veggies or different cheese varieties.
  • For gluten-free, use GF pierogies and check kielbasa and broth for GF status.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3–4 hours (high) or 6 hours (low) + 30-minute finish
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: Comfort American / Eastern European Twist

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: ~470–610 kcal
  • Sugar: Data not available
  • Sodium: Relatively high—adjust broth or use low-sodium if needed
  • Fat: ~42–51 g
  • Saturated Fat: Data not available
  • Unsaturated Fat: Data not available
  • Trans Fat: Data not available
  • Carbohydrates: ~20–23 g
  • Fiber: Data not available
  • Protein: ~31 g
  • Cholesterol: Data not available

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