Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 3.5–4 hours (on high) or ~6 hours (on low) | Total Time: ~3.5–6 hours 10 minutes | Serves: 4–6
Introduction
Crockpot Pierogi & Kielbasa Casserole blends hearty pierogies, smoky kielbasa sausage, and creamy melted cheese into a one-pot comfort dish. As everything simmers in the slow cooker, the pierogies soften, the kielbasa infuses smoky flavor, and cheeses melt into a rich, gooey sauce. It’s easy to assemble, low-effort, and ideal for cozy dinners or busy days when you want a warm, satisfying meal ready with minimal fuss.
Why This Casserole Is So Loved
This dish is loved because it combines convenience with comfort. Frozen pierogies and store-bought sausage make prep simple. The slow cooker does the rest — melding textures and flavors into a creamy, hearty casserole. The result is a rich, sausage-pierogi-cheese mash-up that’s filling, comforting, and great for sharing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Frozen pierogies (potato & cheese or cheddar-filled)
- Kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds or bite-sized pieces
- Chicken broth (or light broth/water + seasoning)
- Cream cheese (cubed or softened)
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Optional garnish: sliced green onions or parsley
The Art of Making a Perfect Crockpot Pierogi Casserole
The magic lies in layering simple ingredients and letting slow, gentle heat do the work. Pierogies absorb flavor from the broth, kaas becomes melty and creamy, and kielbasa releases its smoky richness. The cream cheese adds extra creaminess, binding the mixture into a smooth, indulgent sauce. The slow cooking ensures pierogies are tender but intact, and all flavors together create a deeply satisfying comfort food.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Layer Ingredients in the Crockpot
Place frozen pierogies at the bottom of a 4–6 quart crockpot. Scatter sliced kielbasa on top. Add a portion of shredded cheddar cheese. Pour in most of the chicken broth so pierogies are partially submerged but not drowning. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Cook Slowly
Cover and cook on high for 3.5–4 hours or low for ~6 hours. Check occasionally and stir gently if needed to prevent sticking.
Add Cream Cheese Mixture Near End
About 30 minutes before the end of cooking, warm the cream cheese with the remaining chicken broth (on stove or microwave) until smooth and pourable. Whisk until creamy. Pour into the crockpot, stir gently to combine, then sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheddar on top. Cover and continue cooking for the final 25–30 minutes to melt cheese and thicken sauce.
Finish & Serve
Once cheese is melted and sauce is creamy, stir gently. Serve hot, optionally garnished with sliced green onions or parsley for freshness and color.
Tips for Best Results
Use frozen pierogies — they hold together better during slow cooking.
Slice kielbasa uniformly so sausage and pierogies cook evenly.
Warm cream cheese before adding to avoid clumps.
Don’t overfill the crockpot — leave room for expansion and stirring.
Stir gently to avoid breaking pierogies.
Serve immediately for best texture — sauce is creamy, pierogies soft, kielbasa smoky.
Creative Variations
Add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms before slow cooking for more veggies and flavor.
Swap cheddar for smoked gouda or mozzarella for a different cheese profile.
Add a handful of spinach or kale in last 15 minutes for extra greens and color.
Use spicy sausage instead of kielbasa for a bolder kick.
Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream at the end for extra richness.
Serving & Pairing Ideas
Serve with a green salad or steamed vegetables to balance richness.
A side of coleslaw or lightly dressed slaw adds freshness and crunch.
Pickled vegetables or a crisp cucumber-tomato salad contrast nicely with creamy casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven — add a splash of broth or water if sauce thickens too much. Sauce consistency and pierogi texture stay best when reheated gently rather than microwaved hard.
Conclusion
Crockpot Pierogi & Kielbasa Casserole is a warm, comforting, and easy-to-prepare meal that brings together creamy cheese, hearty pierogies, and smoky sausage. Perfect for cold nights, family dinners, or when you want a comforting one-pot dish with minimal effort. Give it a try — simple ingredients, minimal prep, and delicious results.
