Generous Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Recipe

Simple Crockpot Pierogi & Kielbasa Casserole Recipe

Comfort meets convenience in this hearty crockpot pierogi casserole with kielbasa that melts hearts faster than butter on hot potatoes.

Polish-inspired flavors dance through every savory bite, promising a meal that feels like a warm hug.

Layers of tender pierogies nestle alongside smoky kielbasa sausage, creating a symphony of textures and tastes.

Each spoonful carries memories of grandmother’s kitchen and weekend gatherings.

Creamy cheese and caramelized onions weave magic into this one-pot wonder that simplifies meal preparation.

Minimal effort yields maximum satisfaction with this crowd-pleasing dish.

Come hungry and leave happy with a recipe that turns ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary feast.

Pierogi Kielbasa Casserole in the Crockpot with Flavor Swaps

  • Vegetarian Version: Replace kielbasa with plant-based sausage or grilled portobello mushrooms for a meat-free option.
  • Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free pierogies and ensure cream soups are certified gluten-free to make the dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Low-Sodium Alternative: Substitute low-sodium cream soups, use reduced-sodium kielbasa, and replace salt with herbs like thyme or rosemary for flavor enhancement.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Swap sour cream with coconut yogurt, use dairy-free cheese alternatives, and select non-dairy milk to accommodate lactose-intolerant individuals.

FAQs

  • Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh pierogies, but reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent them from becoming too mushy.

  • Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This casserole reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it perfect for preparing ahead of time.

  • Can I substitute the kielbasa with another type of sausage?

Definitely! Andouille, smoked sausage, or Polish sausage work great as alternatives to traditional kielbasa.

  • How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Replace the kielbasa with plant-based sausage or add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions for a hearty vegetarian version.

Pierogi Casserole That’s Rich And Filling

  • Quick and Easy Comfort Cooking: Crockpot Pierogi Casserole delivers homestyle deliciousness with minimal effort.
  • Minimal Prep Magic: Dump and cook method means you can toss ingredients in the crockpot and walk away, perfect for busy weeknights when time is short.
  • Family-Friendly Feast: Combines kid-approved favorites like kielbasa, pierogies, and cheese into one hearty, satisfying meal that pleases everyone at the dinner table.
  • Hassle-Free Hearty Meal: Slow cooker technique ensures tender pierogies and kielbasa while developing rich, deep flavors without constant monitoring or complicated cooking techniques.

Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Ingredients

Main Protein Components:
  • Frozen Pierogies: Traditional Eastern European dumplings that provide the hearty base of the casserole, best when using pre-made frozen varieties.
  • Kielbasa: Classic Polish sausage that adds smoky and savory flavor, choose high-quality smoked sausage for best results.
Creamy Binding Ingredients:
  • Cream of Mushroom Soup, Cream of Chicken Soup: Condensed soups that create a rich, smooth sauce and help bind ingredients together, canned versions work perfectly.
  • Sour Cream: Adds tangy richness and creamy texture to the casserole, full-fat version recommended.
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Provides melty, sharp flavor and helps create a golden, cheesy topping, sharp cheddar works best.
Seasoning and Liquid Components:
  • Milk: Helps thin the sauce and create a more cohesive casserole texture, whole milk preferred.
  • Garlic Powder: Adds subtle, aromatic seasoning throughout the dish.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing overall flavor, adjust to personal taste preference.

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Steps

Step 1: Prepare Crockpot Cooking Surface

Coat the inside of your slow cooker with a light layer of non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Create First Layer

Arrange frozen pierogies in a single, even layer across the bottom of the crockpot, covering the entire surface.

Step 3: Add Protein Layer

Spread sliced kielbasa sausage evenly over the pierogies, creating a hearty and flavorful base for the casserole.

Step 4: Whip Up Creamy Sauce

In a mixing bowl, blend together:
  • Cream of mushroom soup
  • Cream of chicken soup
  • Sour cream
  • Whole milk
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Whisk the ingredients until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Pour Sauce Over Layers

Gently pour the creamy sauce mixture over the pierogies and kielbasa, ensuring complete coverage and even distribution.

Step 6: Sprinkle Cheese Topping

Generously scatter shredded cheddar cheese across the top of the casserole, creating a rich and golden finish.

Step 7: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 4-5 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours until the casserole is heated through and bubbling.

Step 8: Final Touch and Serve

Give the casserole a gentle stir before serving to mix all the delicious layers and ensure even distribution of flavors.

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Tips for Easy Weeknight Comfort

  • Thoroughly spray the crockpot with cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup and prevent ingredients from adhering to the sides.
  • Arrange frozen pierogies in a single, even layer to guarantee consistent cooking and optimal flavor distribution.
  • Whisk the soup, sour cream, and seasonings until completely smooth to eliminate lumps and create a creamy, well-blended sauce.
  • Add shredded cheese during the last hour of cooking to maintain its texture and prevent overcooking or becoming grainy.
  • Gently stir the casserole before serving to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated and heated through, creating a delicious, cohesive dish.

Reheat Pierogi Casserole Without Drying Out

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and food safety.
  • Transfer casserole to a skillet, add a splash of milk to prevent drying, and warm over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Place portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until piping hot.
  • Wrap casserole tightly in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.

What to Eat with Pierogi Casserole and Kielbasa

  • Pair with Crisp Pilsner: Select a light, refreshing Czech or German pilsner that cuts through the creamy, rich casserole and complements the savory kielbasa.
  • Serve with Tangy Sauerkraut Salad: Prepare a zesty sauerkraut side dish with diced apples and caraway seeds to balance the hearty casserole and add bright, acidic notes.
  • Complement with Crusty Rye Bread: Slice a rustic rye bread to soak up the creamy sauce and provide a robust, earthy contrast to the cheesy pierogi casserole.
  • Add Fresh Cucumber Dill Salad: Whip up a cool cucumber salad with fresh dill and light vinaigrette to refresh the palate between bites of the rich, comforting main dish.
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Generous Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Recipe

Generous Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Recipe


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4.6 from 9 reviews

  • Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty Polish-inspired Pierogi Casserole delivers comfort in one delicious dish, combining classic kielbasa and potato-filled pierogies. Generous layers of savory ingredients blend seamlessly, promising warmth and satisfaction with each comforting spoonful you’ll savor.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs (907 grams) frozen pierogies
  • 1 lb (454 grams) kielbasa, sliced
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) shredded cheddar cheese

Dairy and Creamy Components:

  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) sour cream
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) milk
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces / 298 grams) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces / 298 grams) cream of chicken soup

Seasonings:

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Thoroughly coat the interior of the slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Create an even base layer of frozen pierogies across the bottom of the slow cooker, ensuring complete coverage.
  3. Distribute kielbasa slices uniformly over the pierogi layer, creating a balanced meat distribution.
  4. Whisk together cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a separate mixing vessel until smooth and well-integrated.
  5. Gently cascade the creamy mixture over the pierogi and kielbasa layers, guaranteeing comprehensive coverage.
  6. Generously scatter shredded cheddar cheese across the top, creating a potential golden-brown crust during cooking.
  7. Secure the slow cooker lid and set to low temperature, allowing the dish to simmer and meld flavors for approximately 4-5 hours, or alternatively use high temperature for 2-3 hours.
  8. Before serving, thoroughly stir the casserole to ensure even distribution of ingredients and consistent texture throughout the dish.

Notes

  • Chop kielbasa and measure ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process and save time during meal preparation.
  • Swap cream-based soups with dairy-free alternatives and use plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for a lactose-free version.
  • Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the creamy mixture for those who enjoy a spicier kick to their comfort food.
  • Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top just before serving to add brightness and fresh flavor to the rich casserole.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Polish

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 490
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 1200 mg
  • Fat: 27 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 19 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
James Walker

James Walker

Lead Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southern Cuisine & Farm-to-Table Cooking, Recipe Development & Testing, Culinary Education & Instruction​

Education

School: Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts

Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts and Operations

Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern culinary techniques, kitchen operations, and farm-to-table practices. ​


James didn’t learn cooking from a TV show, he learned it from busy kitchens, family gatherings, and long afternoons spent testing recipes the hard way.
After training at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, he brought his love for real, down-to-earth food to every dish he makes.
At Dining At Home, James loves building recipes that feel familiar but still have something special, like adding a twist to a classic or making a slow Sunday dinner feel brand new.
When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll probably find him swapping garden tips at the farmers’ market or teaching his daughter how to flip pancakes without a mess (almost).

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