There’s nothing quite like a bubbling, creamy casserole to warm you up from the inside out—especially when it’s as easy and outrageously delicious as this Slow Cooker Pierogi Kielbasa Casserole. With cheesy pierogies, smoky kielbasa, and a luscious sauce that cooks hands-off in your crockpot, this recipe brings together all the qualities of true comfort food—with barely any effort!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate Comfort: Every forkful boasts a creamy, cheesy texture that’s pure cozy heaven.
- Effortless Cooking: Just toss everything in the slow cooker and walk away—dinner is ready when you are.
- Crowd Pleaser: Smoky kielbasa and pillowy pierogies make this casserole universally loved by kids and adults alike.
- Perfect for Busy Days: Minimal chopping, simple ingredients, and easy cleanup—what’s not to love?
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Slow Cooker Pierogi Kielbasa Casserole relies on a handful of simple, satisfying ingredients. Each one brings its own magic—think creamy tang, melty cheese, golden pierogies, and that unmistakable smoky savor from kielbasa. You’ll love how every bite is balanced and crave-worthy!
- Cheddar Pierogies: These little dumplings are the star—choose the mini-sized ones if you can for perfectly bite-sized comfort.
- Chicken Broth: Not only does it keep everything moist, but it also infuses the casserole with savory depth.
- Cream Cheese: This transforms the sauce into a luscious, creamy blanket that hugs every ingredient.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: For that irresistible cheesy pull and extra sharp flavor.
- Kielbasa (or other cooked sausage): Sliced and smoky, it delivers heartiness and a pop of bold flavor with every bite.
- Salt & Pepper: Just a pinch brings all the flavors together—taste as you go!
Variations
This recipe begs to be customized—feel free to get creative or adapt based on what’s in your fridge or pantry. Whether you’re swapping ingredients for dietary needs or simply shaking things up for a new twist, this casserole is flexible and forgiving!
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pierogies and double-check your kielbasa and chicken broth labels so everyone at the table can dig in worry-free.
- Switch Up the Protein: Try smoked turkey sausage, diced ham, or shredded rotisserie chicken for a personalized touch.
- Add Veggies: Stir in sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or baby spinach right into the slow cooker for extra color and nutrition.
- Cheese Fanatics: Go half cheddar, half mozzarella (or add a handful of parmesan) for ultimate cheesiness.
How to Make Slow Cooker Pierogi Kielbasa Casserole
Step 1: Layer the Ingredients
Start by adding your frozen (or cold) pierogies to the bottom of your slow cooker, followed by scattering those savory slices of kielbasa all over. This helps the flavors seep into every layer, so each bite tastes like a little bit of everything!
Step 2: Add the Creamy Goodness
Dollop the cream cheese over the pierogies and kielbasa, then pour in the chicken broth. Sprinkle your shredded cheddar on top, and finally, season with salt and pepper. As the casserole cooks, that cream cheese will melt down and transform everything into pure comfort.
Step 3: Set It and Forget It
Pop the lid on your slow cooker, set it to high for 3–4 hours or low for 6 hours. No peeking needed! The magic will happen all on its own, giving you time to relax (or get everything else off your to-do list).
Step 4: Stir, Serve, and Enjoy
Once everything is piping hot, creamy, and melded together, give it a gentle stir to mix the sauce evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle generous portions into bowls—and get ready for the ultimate bite of pierogi, kielbasa, and gooey cheese in every spoonful.
Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Pierogi Kielbasa Casserole
- The Right Pierogi: Mini pierogies are bite-sized wonders that cook evenly and soak up more flavor, so grab them if you can!
- Layering Matters: Start with pierogies on the bottom, then kielbasa—this helps everything heat through perfectly and keeps the pasta plump.
- Cream Cheese Hack: Cut the cream cheese into cubes or soften it first so it melts seamlessly into the sauce.
- Taste Before Serving: Not all broths and kielbasa are equally salty—give it a quick taste at the end and adjust your salt and pepper if needed.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Pierogi Kielbasa Casserole
Garnishes
This hearty casserole loves a sprinkle of fresh toppings! Try snipped chives or sliced green onion for color and zing, a dollop of sour cream for some tangy coolness, or even a little extra cheddar if you’re feeling indulgent.
Side Dishes
To balance the richness of the Slow Cooker Pierogi Kielbasa Casserole, serve it with a crisp green salad and a basket of warm, crusty bread. Roasted vegetables, sautéed cabbage, or simple steamed broccoli also complement the dish beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve in colorful, rustic bowls for a homey vibe, or layer on a big platter for family-style sharing. For parties or potlucks, spoon into individual ramekins for fun single-serve casseroles—top each one with a little fresh parsley for a festive touch!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers of your Slow Cooker Pierogi Kielbasa Casserole can be scooped into an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen and the sauce gets even creamier as it sits—total bonus!
Freezing
You can freeze individual portions (or the whole batch) in sealed freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and reheat gently.
Reheating
To reheat, pop single servings in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring gently between each interval. For larger amounts, cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through—add a splash of broth if the sauce gets too thick.
FAQs
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Can I use homemade pierogies instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Homemade pierogies will hold up beautifully in this Slow Cooker Pierogi Kielbasa Casserole. Just make sure to boil them briefly first so they don’t fall apart while slow cooking.
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Is it okay to assemble everything the night before and refrigerate?
Yes—assemble all ingredients in your slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, pop the insert into the cooker, set your timer, and let dinner cook itself!
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Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Definitely! As long as your slow cooker is large enough to handle the extra volume, just double all ingredients and allow for a little extra cooking time. Make sure everything gets hot and bubbly before serving.
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What can I use instead of kielbasa?
You can substitute any cooked sausage (like smoked turkey sausage), cubed ham, or even shredded rotisserie chicken if you prefer. The casserole is endlessly adaptable!
Final Thoughts
I hope this Slow Cooker Pierogi Kielbasa Casserole becomes your new lazy-day hero, just like it is in my house! Don’t be surprised if it disappears fast—there’s something magical about creamy pierogies mingling with hearty kielbasa that works for weeknights, gatherings, or anytime you crave some extra coziness. Give it a try and let it bring some love and comfort to your next meal!
PrintSlow Cooker Pierogi Kielbasa Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours on high or 6 hours on low
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes – 6 hours 15 minutes
- Category: Slow Cooking
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Indulge in this comforting Slow Cooker Pierogi Kielbasa Casserole that combines the flavors of cheddar pierogies, creamy cheese, and savory kielbasa, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Cheddar Pierogies:
3 boxesChicken Broth:
4 cupsCream Cheese:
8 ouncesShredded Cheddar Cheese:
1 cupKielbasa or Cooked Meat:
1 lb.Salt and Pepper:
To tasteInstructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place all the ingredients into your crockpot, ensuring even distribution.
- Cooking: Set the crockpot to high for 3-4 hours or low for 6 hours for a more infused flavor.
- Serve: Pair the casserole with a green salad and crusty bread for a well-rounded meal.
Notes
- To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free pierogies, kielbasa, and chicken broth.
Nutrition
- Calories: 467 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 1489mg
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 114mg