Discover the Ultimate Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa!

Comfort food fans, get ready to fall in love with this easy and delicious Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa! This slow-cooked casserole is the ultimate in cheesy, creamy goodness, with tender pierogies and smoky sausage in every bite. Prepare to wow your family and friends with this cozy and satisfying crockpot creation.

Table of Contents

What is Pierogi Casserole?

Pierogi casserole is a hearty, one-dish meal that combines the classic flavors of pierogies (Polish dumplings) with additional ingredients like cheese, meat, and vegetables. In this version, we’re using frozen cheddar pierogies, creamy cheese sauce, and sliced kielbasa sausage for a comforting and flavor-packed dish.

Why Use a Crockpot for This Recipe?

The slow cooker is the perfect cooking method for this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole. The long, gentle cooking time allows the flavors to meld together seamlessly, resulting in a rich, creamy, and incredibly tender final dish. Plus, the hands-off nature of a crockpot makes this recipe incredibly easy to prepare – just layer the ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work!

Ingredients for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa

Detailed List of Ingredients

• 3 packages (24 oz total) frozen cheddar pierogies
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, cubed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Highlights and Substitutions

The star of this dish is the frozen cheddar pierogies, which provide a delicious base of cheesy potato dumplings. For the best results, look for high-quality pierogies from the frozen food section of your grocery store.

Kielbasa, a flavorful Polish sausage, adds a smoky and savory element to the casserole. You can substitute with another smoked sausage, such as andouille or chorizo, if desired.

Cream cheese and shredded cheddar create a luxuriously creamy sauce that coats the pierogies and sausage. Feel free to experiment with other melty cheeses, like Monterey Jack or provolone, to customize the flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Layer Ingredients

Begin by layering the frozen pierogies, sliced kielbasa, and shredded cheddar cheese in a large crockpot. Make sure to evenly distribute the ingredients throughout the pot.

Prepare Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the chicken broth and cubed cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Combine and Cook

Pour the creamy broth mixture evenly over the pierogies and kielbasa in the crockpot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours, until the pierogies are tender and everything is hot and bubbly.

Add Cheese Topping

About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the extra shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Cover again and let the cheese melt, creating a deliciously gooey topping.

Serve and Enjoy

Gently stir the casserole and serve hot. This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the ultimate in comfort food – perfectly creamy, cheesy, and loaded with smoky sausage flavor. Enjoy this easy and satisfying meal with your loved ones!

Tips for the Perfect Crockpot Pierogi Casserole

Choosing the Right Kielbasa

For the best flavor, opt for a high-quality, smoked kielbasa sausage. Look for brands that use all-natural ingredients and avoid those with lots of added preservatives or fillers.

Variations for Dietary Preferences

To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the kielbasa and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a gluten-free version, swap the traditional pierogies for gluten-free options.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover Crockpot Pierogi Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Serving Suggestions

What to Serve with Pierogi Casserole?

This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for an extra hearty and satisfying feast.

Pairing Drinks with Your Meal

For a cozy, comforting meal, pair the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with a crisp lager or a rich, malty Oktoberfest-style beer. For a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing iced tea or a warm mug of apple cider would also make a delightful accompaniment.

Nutritional Information

Calories and Macros

A single serving of this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa contains approximately 550 calories, 35g of fat, 35g of carbohydrates, and 25g of protein.

Health Benefits of Ingredients

The combination of pierogies, kielbasa, and cheese provides a satisfying balance of complex carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. Pierogies are a good source of complex carbs and vitamins, while kielbasa offers protein and beneficial nutrients like iron and zinc.

FAQs About Crockpot Pierogi Casserole

Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If you have access to fresh, homemade pierogies, you can certainly use them in this recipe. The cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly, as fresh pierogies may cook a bit faster than frozen.

How long does it take to cook pierogi in a crockpot?

In this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole recipe, the pierogies cook for 4-5 hours on LOW or 2-3 hours on HIGH, until they are tender and heated through. Be sure to check the casserole periodically to ensure the pierogies don’t overcook.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole vegetarian by omitting the kielbasa sausage and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For added protein, you could also stir in cooked chickpeas or lentils.

What are some alternative toppings for the casserole?

In addition to the shredded cheddar cheese topping, you could also try sprinkling the casserole with crispy fried onions, crumbled bacon, or fresh chopped chives before serving.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Crockpot Cheesy Potato Casserole
• Slow Cooker Sausage and Sauerkraut
• Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Casserole

Conclusion

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the ultimate in comfort food bliss. With its irresistible combination of tender pierogies, smoky sausage, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this slow-cooked casserole is guaranteed to warm your soul and satisfy your taste buds. Give this easy and delicious recipe a try, and prepare to be wowed by the incredible flavors and textures in every bite!

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