There are few dishes as comforting and satisfying as a hearty casserole, especially when it combines classic flavors with the ease of slow cooking. The Crock Pot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a perfect example of such a dish. This recipe brings together the comforting taste of pierogis—those delightful Eastern European dumplings stuffed with creamy cheese and potato—and pairs them with smoky kielbasa, all cooked together in a slow cooker for a fuss-free meal. The result is a flavorful, creamy casserole that’s sure to warm both the heart and the stomach.
I first stumbled upon this recipe during a particularly hectic week when I was looking for a simple yet comforting meal to feed my family. Between work, school activities, and everyday life, I needed something that could be prepared quickly and then left to cook on its own. The idea of a pierogi casserole intrigued me, and the addition of kielbasa made it even more appealing. As it cooked in the slow cooker, the aroma filled my home, creating a sense of comfort and anticipation. When it was finally ready, the dish exceeded my expectations—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It quickly became a family favorite, ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
3 boxes of Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies (regular or mini; we prefer the mini ones for bite-sized convenience)
4 cups chicken broth
1 8-ounce block of cream cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 pound kielbasa, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker
Select Your Slow Cooker: Begin by selecting a slow cooker that can comfortably accommodate all the ingredients. A 6-quart slow cooker works well for this recipe, but a 4-quart should suffice if you prefer a slightly more compact casserole.
Layer the Ingredients: Grease the interior of the slow cooker with a small amount of non-stick spray or a thin layer of butter to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Assemble the Casserole
Add the Pierogies: Open the boxes of Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies. If you’re using mini pierogies, you can simply toss them into the slow cooker. If you prefer regular-sized pierogies, cut them into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and easy serving.
Prepare the Kielbasa: Slice the kielbasa into ¼-inch rounds. This will allow the kielbasa to distribute evenly throughout the casserole and infuse the dish with its smoky flavor. Add the sliced kielbasa to the slow cooker.
Add Cream Cheese: Unwrap the 8-ounce block of cream cheese and cut it into smaller chunks. This will help it melt and incorporate more evenly into the casserole. Drop the cream cheese chunks into the slow cooker.
Incorporate Cheddar Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the other ingredients. This will melt into the dish, adding a rich, cheesy flavor that complements the pierogies and kielbasa.
Pour the Chicken Broth: Carefully pour 4 cups of chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker. The broth will provide the necessary moisture for cooking and help meld all the flavors together.
Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Remember that the kielbasa is already seasoned, so start with a small amount of salt and adjust as needed.
3. Cooking the Casserole
Set the Slow Cooker: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook. If you have time to let it cook slowly, set the slow cooker to the low setting for about 6 hours. If you’re in a bit more of a hurry, you can set it to high for 3-4 hours.
Check for Doneness: About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, check the casserole for doneness. The pierogies should be tender, and the cream cheese should be fully melted and incorporated into the dish. Stir the casserole gently to ensure even cooking.
4. Serving Suggestions
Prepare Sides: While the casserole is cooking, prepare some fresh sides to complement your meal. A crisp green salad and a loaf of crusty bread are perfect choices. The salad adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy casserole, while the bread is ideal for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Serve: Once the casserole is done cooking, give it a final stir and taste. Adjust the seasoning if necessary. Ladle the casserole into bowls or onto plates and serve warm.
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetable Add-Ins: Feel free to add vegetables to the casserole for extra nutrition and flavor. Options like frozen peas, corn, or chopped bell peppers can be added along with the pierogies and kielbasa.
Different Meats: If kielbasa isn’t your preference or you want to try something different, you can substitute with other cooked meats like ham, chicken sausage, or even diced chicken breast. Just be sure the meat is pre-cooked since the slow cooking time won’t be sufficient to cook raw meat.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese to change up the flavor profile. Try using gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of blue cheese for a unique twist.
Low-Sodium Option: For a lower-sodium version, use low-sodium chicken broth and reduce the amount of added salt.
Vegetarian Version: To make this dish vegetarian, omit the kielbasa and replace it with a combination of sautéed mushrooms and onions for a hearty, savory alternative.
Summary
The Crock Pot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, combining the beloved comfort of pierogis with the savory richness of kielbasa, all in one easy-to-make dish. The slow cooker method ensures that all the ingredients meld together beautifully, creating a creamy and satisfying meal with minimal effort. This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or any occasion where you want to serve something hearty and delicious.
Its versatility allows for various modifications to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs, making it a go-to recipe for anyone who enjoys a good, homey meal. With its blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and smoky kielbasa, this dish is sure to become a cherished part of your recipe collection. Enjoy the ease and flavor of this comforting casserole, and share it with family and friends for a meal that’s both satisfying and memorable.
