Creamy Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa
Creamy Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa is a comforting and hearty slow-cooker meal that combines tender frozen pierogis, smoky kielbasa, and a luscious creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish delivers rich flavors and a creamy texture with minimal prep and easy cooking. The casserole is family-friendly, versatile for dietary preferences, and ideal for anyone craving a warm, satisfying meal.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 to 4 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American / Eastern European Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- Frozen cheese or potato-filled pierogis – 16 oz (about 24 pierogis)
- Smoked kielbasa – 12 oz, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- Sour cream – 1 cup
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack) – 1 cup shredded, plus 1/4 cup reserved for topping
- Onion – 1 medium, diced
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Other Ingredients
- Butter or oil – 1 tbsp for sautéing
- Milk – 1/4 cup (for cream sauce)
- Salt – 1/2 tsp, or to taste
- Black pepper – 1/4 tsp, or to taste
- Paprika – 1/4 tsp (optional, for warmth)
- Prepare the Kielbasa and Onions: Slice the kielbasa into bite-sized pieces and sauté with diced onions and minced garlic in a skillet with butter or oil until the onions are soft and the kielbasa is lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. This step enhances the smoky and sweet flavors that are essential to the dish.
- Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot: Add half of the frozen pierogis in a single layer to the crockpot. Sprinkle half of the kielbasa and onion mixture over the pierogis. Repeat the layering with the remaining pierogis and kielbasa to evenly distribute flavors.
- Mix the Creamy Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together sour cream, shredded cheese (reserve some for topping), milk, salt, pepper, and paprika until smooth. Pour this sauce evenly over the pierogi and kielbasa layers in the crockpot.
- Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low heat for 3 to 4 hours. The pierogis should become tender and the flavors meld into a rich, creamy casserole. Avoid opening the lid too often to maintain steady heat.
- Add Cheese Topping and Finish: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the reserved shredded cheese on top. Close the lid and let the cheese melt into a golden, gooey crust that completes the dish.
Notes
- Use frozen pierogis directly without thawing; they cook perfectly in the slow cooker.
- Sautéing kielbasa and onions before layering enhances flavor and reduces excess grease.
- Adjust the creaminess by adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce seems too thick before cooking.
- Keep the crockpot lid closed during cooking to maintain temperature and ensure even cooking.
- Use a crockpot liner for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 37 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: pierogi casserole, crockpot recipe, kielbasa dinner, creamy pierogi, slow cooker casserole, comfort food, easy weeknight meal