Pin it Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights. This dish combines the soft, pillowy texture of potato and cheese pierogi with the smoky, savory flavor of sliced kielbasa, all tied together in a rich and creamy sauce. It is a family-friendly meal that transforms simple pantry staples into a hearty feast with minimal effort in your slow cooker.
Pin it The beauty of this slow cooker casserole lies in its simple layers. As the ingredients cook on low, the frozen pierogi absorb the flavors of the creamy mushroom and sour cream sauce, becoming incredibly tender. Meanwhile, the kielbasa infuses every bite with a hint of smokiness, resulting in a dish that tastes like it spent hours in a traditional kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 (16 oz) packages frozen potato and cheese pierogi
- 1 lb (450 g) kielbasa, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (10.5 oz/300 g) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream
- ½ cup (120 ml) milk
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Lightly grease the insert of a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Step 2
- Layer half the frozen pierogi on the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Step 3
- Top with half the sliced kielbasa and half the onions.
- Step 4
- Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Step 5
- Repeat layers with remaining pierogi, kielbasa, onions, and another cup of cheese.
- Step 6
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.
- Step 7
- Pour the sauce evenly over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker.
- Step 8
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours, or until everything is hot and bubbly.
- Step 9
- Garnish with chopped chives or parsley before serving, if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For extra depth of flavor, consider sautéing the onions in a small amount of butter until they are translucent or slightly caramelized before adding them to the slow cooker. This adds a sweet richness that complements the savory kielbasa perfectly.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily customize this dish to suit your preferences. For a lighter version, swap the traditional pork kielbasa for turkey or beef varieties. If you are not a fan of mushrooms, condensed cream of chicken soup is an excellent alternative that maintains the same creamy consistency.
Serviervorschläge
This rich and cheesy casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh, crisp green salad or a side of steamed seasonal vegetables. A sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley just before serving adds a bright, herbal finish that cuts through the creamy sauce.
Pin it Whether you are feeding a hungry family or preparing for a potluck, this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa is a reliable and delicious choice. Its combination of soft pierogi, smoky sausage, and bubbly cheese is sure to make it a new favorite in your household rotation.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use fresh pierogi instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh pierogi work well but may require slightly less cooking time. Check for doneness around 3 hours to prevent them from becoming too soft.
- → What other meats can I substitute for kielbasa?
Turkey kielbasa, smoked sausage, or even cooked bacon work beautifully. For a lighter version, try turkey kielbasa or chicken sausage.
- → Can I assemble this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble all layers in the slow cooker insert the night before, refrigerate, then start cooking when ready. Add 30-60 minutes to cooking time if starting from cold.
- → Can I make this in the oven instead?
Yes. Layer ingredients in a 9x13 baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for 45-60 minutes until bubbly and heated through.
- → What sides pair well with this casserole?
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness. Steamed broccoli or roasted green beans also complement the hearty flavors nicely.
- → How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or warm the entire dish in a 350°F oven covered with foil until hot.