Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Description

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

There’s something nostalgic about cooking with a crockpot, especially with a dish like Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa. My grandmother used to prepare this comforting meal on cold winter days, filling the house with warmth and the rich aroma of melting cheese and smoky sausage. Every time I make this, it brings back memories of cozy evenings spent around her table, enjoying hearty food and her stories of the past. This dish is as much about those moments as it is about the delicious, comforting flavors.

3 packages of Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies
4 cups chicken broth
1 block (8 oz) cream cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 lb kielbasa, sliced
Salt & pepper to taste

Directions:
1. In a 4-6 quart crockpot, combine 3 cups broth, pierogies, kielbasa, and cheese.
2. Cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6 hours.
3. Warm cream cheese with remaining broth, whisk, and stir in.
4. Sprinkle cheese, cook for 30 mins.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 650

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect casserole every time.

1. Spray the inside of your 4-6 quart slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray for easier cleanup.
2. Arrange the frozen pierogies in an even layer at the bottom of the crockpot.
3. Add the sliced kielbasa evenly over the pierogies.
4. Pour in 3 cups of the chicken broth. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
5. Cover and cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours or LOW for 6 hours, until pierogies are tender.
6. About 30 minutes before serving, prepare the sauce. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the remaining 1 cup of broth and the block of cream cheese. Microwave in 30-second intervals, whisking in between, until smooth and fully combined.
7. Pour this creamy sauce over the casserole in the crockpot and stir gently to combine.
8. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover and cook on HIGH for an additional 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

This rich casserole pairs beautifully with lighter, fresh sides to balance the meal.

• Serve with a crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette.
• A side of steamed green beans, broccoli, or roasted carrots adds color and nutrition.
• For a traditional touch, offer a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or dill on top.
• Crusty bread or garlic toast is perfect for soaking up the extra creamy sauce.

How-to Summary

Layer frozen pierogies and kielbasa in a crockpot with broth. Cook on high for 3-4 hours. Whisk warm broth with cream cheese to create a sauce, stir into the casserole, top with shredded cheese, and cook for 30 more minutes until bubbly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely. Smoked sausage, Polish sausage, or even a turkey kielbasa are excellent substitutes that will work well in this recipe.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
You can assemble the pierogies, kielbasa, and broth in the crockpot insert the night before. Keep it covered in the refrigerator. Add 30-60 minutes to the cooking time when starting from cold.

My sauce seems too thin. How can I thicken it?
Create a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this into the casserole during the last 30 minutes of cooking on HIGH.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes. Sliced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms can be added with the pierogies. For softer veggies like spinach, stir them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Is it necessary to use frozen pierogies?
Yes, using frozen pierogies is recommended. Fresh or thawed pierogies may become too soft and break down during the long cooking process.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pot: Use a 4-6 quart slow cooker as specified. A smaller pot will not cook evenly.
• Adding Cold Cream Cheese: Not warming and whisking the cream cheese with broth first will result in a lumpy sauce.
• Overcooking: Stick to the recommended times. Cooking too long can cause the pierogies to disintegrate.
• Skipping the Non-Stick Spray: The melted cheese can stick to the sides, making cleanup difficult.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the ultimate comfort food, delivering rich, creamy, and smoky flavors with minimal effort. It’s a forgiving recipe that invites personal touches while consistently providing a hearty and satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it’s a modern twist on tradition that is sure to create new warm memories around your own table.