Description
Pierogi Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
1 package (16 oz) frozen pierogies (potato & cheese-filled)
1 cup sour cream
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 small onion, diced and sautéed
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer Ingredients:
Arrange frozen pierogies in the baking dish.
Sprinkle sautéed onions and half of the bacon over the pierogies.
Mix Sauce:
In a bowl, combine sour cream, garlic powder, and pepper.
Pour the mixture evenly over the pierogies.
Add Cheese and Bacon:
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and remaining bacon on top.
Bake:
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Serve:
Garnish with chopped parsley and enjoy warm!
Creamy, cheesy comfort food!
#PierogiCasserole #CheesyGoodness #ComfortFood
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof casserole. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. While the oven heats, cook 6 slices of bacon until crisp, then crumble them. In the same pan, sauté one small diced onion until soft and translucent. No need to thaw the frozen pierogies. Arrange them in a single layer in the prepared dish. Evenly scatter the sautéed onions and half of the crumbled bacon over the pierogies. In a separate bowl, thoroughly mix one cup of sour cream with 1/2 teaspoon each of garlic powder and black pepper. Pour this creamy sauce evenly over the layered ingredients, using a spatula to spread it gently. Top everything with one cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the remaining bacon. Bake, uncovered, for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, the edges are bubbly, and the top is lightly golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
This rich casserole pairs perfectly with lighter, fresh sides to balance the meal. Serve it with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, or steamed green beans or broccoli. For a heartier comfort-food spread, add a side of applesauce or a bowl of pickled beets, which are traditional Polish accompaniments for pierogi. A dollop of extra sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chives on each portion adds a nice finishing touch.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Layer frozen pierogies with sautéed onion and bacon. Cover with a seasoned sour cream sauce, top with cheddar cheese and more bacon. Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh or homemade pierogies instead of frozen?
Absolutely. If using fresh or homemade pierogies, you may need to reduce the baking time by 5-10 minutes to prevent them from becoming too soft. Check for doneness when the casserole is hot and bubbly.
How can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, you may need to add 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be going into the oven cold.
What are good cheese substitutes for cheddar?
Monterey Jack, Colby, Gouda, or a Mexican blend would work well. For a sharper flavor, try pepper Jack or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for extra meltiness.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish, covered with foil, in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Can I add other ingredients to this casserole?
Yes! This recipe is versatile. Consider adding diced ham, cooked sausage, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted garlic to the layers for a customized dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Thawing the Pierogies: Using thawed pierogies can make them mushy during baking. Keep them frozen for the best texture.
- Overbaking: The goal is a hot, bubbly casserole with melted cheese. Baking beyond 30 minutes can cause the sour cream to separate or the edges to become too hard.
- Not Greasing the Dish: Skipping this step can lead to difficult cleanup and pierogies sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Uneven Sauce Distribution: Stir the sour cream mixture well and drizzle it evenly. For full coverage, gently tilt the dish or use a spoon to spread it.
Conclusion
This Pierogi Casserole is the ultimate shortcut to a satisfying, family-friendly meal that delivers all the beloved flavors of traditional pierogi without the fuss of folding and boiling each one. It’s incredibly adaptable, allowing you to use different fillings or add your favorite ingredients. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a comforting potluck contribution, this dish is guaranteed to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy, bacon-filled goodness!