Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Beef Kielbasa – Quick & Easy

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Easy Recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero, effortlessly delivering comfort and flavor straight to your dinner table. Imagine a bustling evening, a hungry family, and a craving for something deeply satisfying without hours of kitchen toil. What if I told you that such a culinary dream is not only possible but incredibly simple to achieve with minimal effort? I am thrilled to share a dish that embodies the very essence of hearty, homemade goodness without the fuss.

Pierogi, those beloved Polish dumplings, have long been a cherished symbol of comfort and tradition across Eastern European tables. When these delightful pockets of potato and cheese are paired with the robust, smoky flavors of kielbasa, a staple sausage from the region, they create a combination that’s simply irresistible. People adore this dish for its incredible depth of flavor – the savory kielbasa complementing the soft pierogi, all brought together in a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s utterly delicious.

Ultimate Convenience with Unforgettable Flavor

The true brilliance of this particular Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Easy Recipe lies in its incredible convenience. Simply layer your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and let the magic happen. The pierogi emerge perfectly tender, soaking up all the rich, savory goodness, while the kielbasa adds a delightful chew and deep flavor profile. This recipe is a testament to deliciousness meeting ultimate ease, making it perfect for busy individuals and families who refuse to compromise on a wonderfully satisfying meal.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs (approx. 900g) frozen pierogies (I highly recommend potato and cheese or potato and onion varieties for the best classic flavor in this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Easy Recipe)
• 1.5 lbs (approx. 680g) smoked kielbasa sausage, preferably a good quality brand, cut into ½-inch thick rounds
• 1 large (or 2 medium) yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 cans (10.5 oz each) condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken for a slightly different flavor profile)
• 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth, low sodium is always a good choice
• 1 cup (240g) sour cream, full-fat for ultimate creaminess
• 2 cups (approx. 220g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided (you’ll use some in layers and some for the top)
• ½ cup (approx. 55g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional, but adds a lovely melt and stretch)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground is always superior
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a wonderful depth to the kielbasa and sauce)
• Salt to taste (remember kielbasa is already salty)
• Fresh chives or green onions, chopped, for garnish (optional, but highly recommended for freshness)

Getting Started: Preparing Your Components for this Easy Crockpot Pierogi Casserole

Before we dive into layering our delicious Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Easy Recipe, a little bit of prep work goes a long way. This initial step ensures all the flavors are vibrant and the textures are perfect.

1. Sauté the Kielbasa: First things first, let’s give our kielbasa a little love. In a large skillet or frying pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add your ½-inch thick rounds of kielbasa. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until they are beautifully browned and slightly crispy on both sides. This browning step is crucial because it develops a deeper, richer flavor in the sausage that you just can’t achieve by simply adding it raw to the slow cooker. Once browned, remove the kielbasa from the skillet and set it aside on a plate lined with a paper towel to drain any excess fat. Don’t clean the pan just yet – we’ll use those flavorful drippings!
2. Soften the Onions: Reduce the heat to medium-low on the same skillet. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to the pan, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the kielbasa. Add your finely diced yellow onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes, or until the onions are soft, translucent, and just beginning to caramelize. This slow cooking of the onions brings out their natural sweetness, which will beautifully complement the savory kielbasa and creamy pierogies. Stir in the garlic powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika during the last minute of cooking the onions. Let them cook for about 30 seconds more, just until fragrant. This toasting of the spices really awakens their aromas and disperses their flavor evenly. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the two cans of condensed cream of mushroom soup, the 1 cup of chicken broth, and the 1 cup of sour cream. Whisk everything together until the mixture is completely smooth and well-combined. You want a consistent, creamy base for your casserole. Taste the sauce and add a pinch of salt if you think it needs it, but be mindful that the kielbasa and soup both contain sodium. This rich, creamy sauce is going to infuse every layer of our Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa.

Assembling Your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole

Now comes the fun part – layering all those wonderful ingredients into your slow cooker. This is where the magic truly begins for our easy Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa. Pay attention to how you layer, as it impacts both the cooking and the final texture.

4. Prepare Your Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the inside of your 6-quart or larger slow cooker with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter. This step is important to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
5. First Layer of Pierogies: Spread approximately one-third of your frozen pierogies in an even layer across the bottom of the slow cooker. Don’t worry if they overlap a little; they will soften and settle as they cook. Using frozen pierogies straight from the bag is one of the reasons this is such an easy recipe – no need to thaw them beforehand!
6. Layer the Kielbasa and Onions: Spoon about half of your sautéed kielbasa rounds over the pierogies. Then, scatter about one-third of the softened, seasoned onions over the kielbasa. Ensure a relatively even distribution so every spoonful of the casserole has a delightful mix of flavors.
7. Add Cheese and Sauce: Sprinkle about ¾ cup of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the kielbasa and onions. Then, ladle about one-third of your creamy soup mixture evenly over the cheese layer. The sauce will begin to seep down, helping to tenderize the pierogies from the bottom up.
8. Repeat the Layers: Place another one-third of the frozen pierogies on top of the sauce layer. Follow this with the remaining half of the sautéed kielbasa and another one-third of the softened onions. Sprinkle another ¾ cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Ladle another one-third of the creamy sauce mixture over this layer.
9. Final Pierogie and Sauce Layer: Arrange the remaining one-third of the frozen pierogies on top. Spread the final one-third of the softened onions over the pierogies. Pour the remaining creamy soup mixture over everything, ensuring the top layer of pierogies is mostly covered by the sauce. This helps them cook through without becoming dry or tough.
10. Top with Cheese (for now): Sprinkle about ½ cup of the remaining shredded sharp cheddar cheese and all of the optional Monterey Jack cheese (if using) evenly over the top of the casserole. This cheese will melt beautifully during the initial cooking phase, creating another layer of flavor.

The Slow Cooker Magic: Cooking Your Casserole

Now, let’s let the slow cooker do its thing! This is where our Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa truly becomes an easy recipe, allowing you to set it and forget it for a few hours while the flavors meld into something truly spectacular.

11. Set and Cook: Cover your slow cooker with its lid. Cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours or on HIGH for 2 to 2.5 hours. The cooking time can vary slightly depending on your specific slow cooker and how packed your casserole is. The goal is for the pierogies to be tender and soft, the sauce to be bubbly and hot, and the cheese to be fully melted.
12. Check for Doneness: Around the minimum cooking time, gently lift a pierogie with a fork. It should be easily pierced and very tender. The sauce should be visibly bubbling around the edges. If the pierogies are still a bit firm, give it another 30 minutes to an hour, checking periodically. It’s important not to overcook the pierogies, as they can become mushy if left for too long. They should hold their shape but be very soft.
13. The Final Cheese Layer: About 30-45 minutes before serving, or once the casserole is almost fully cooked and the pierogies are tender, open the lid and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top. Recover the slow cooker and continue cooking until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly, and perhaps even slightly golden around the edges. If you have a slow cooker with a ‘warm’ setting, you can switch it to warm after this step if you’re not serving immediately.

The Grand Finale: Finishing Touches and Serving Your Easy Crockpot Pierogi Casserole

The moment of truth has arrived! Your kitchen should be filled with incredible aromas. This final stage for our Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa is about making it picture-perfect and ready for the table.

14. Rest Before Serving: Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, turn off the slow cooker or switch it to the ‘warm’ setting. Let the casserole rest, covered, for about 10-15 minutes. This brief resting period allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to further meld, making for a more cohesive and easier-to-serve dish. Trust me, it’s worth the short wait.
15. Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle generously with freshly chopped chives or green onions. This adds a wonderful pop of color and a fresh, oniony counterpoint to the rich, savory casserole. Serve warm directly from the slow cooker or spoon generous portions into individual bowls. This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Easy Recipe is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some steamed green beans to add a fresh, crisp element.

Tips for the Best Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa

To ensure your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa is nothing short of amazing every time, I’ve gathered a few extra tips and tricks I’ve learned along the way:

• Don’t Skip Browning the Kielbasa: I know it’s an extra step, but seriously, don’t skip it! Browning the kielbasa adds immense flavor depth and a delightful texture that you won’t get from just tossing it in raw. It creates those caramelized bits that are just irresistible.
• Use Good Quality Ingredients: Since this is a relatively simple dish, the quality of your main ingredients really shines through. Opt for a good quality smoked kielbasa and your favorite brand of pierogies.
• Pierogie Variety: While I prefer potato and cheese, feel free to experiment with other frozen pierogie fillings like potato and onion, or even spinach and feta for a twist. Just make sure they’re the standard size, not mini, for proper cooking times.
• Thickening the Sauce: If your sauce seems a little too thin after cooking, you can remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking. The evaporation will help it thicken. Alternatively, after the casserole is cooked and removed from the slow cooker, you can carefully scoop out some of the sauce into a small saucepan, bring it to a simmer, and stir in a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water. Whisk until thickened, then stir back into the casserole.
• Personalize Your Casserole: This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Easy Recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Consider adding a can of drained corn or a diced bell pepper along with the onions for extra veggies and flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick if you like a little heat.
• Even Cooking: To help ensure even cooking, especially if your slow cooker tends to have hot spots, you can gently stir the casserole about halfway through the cooking time. Just be careful not to break up the pierogies too much.
• Cheese Choice: Don’t be afraid to mix up your cheeses! A blend of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and even a little provolone or Gruyere can add complex cheesy notes.
• Salt Control: Kielbasa and condensed soups can be quite salty. Always taste your sauce before layering and add salt sparingly. You can always add more at the table.

Storage and Reheating

One of the best things about this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Easy Recipe is how well it stores. It’s perfect for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers for lunch the next day!

• Storing Leftovers: Allow any leftover casserole to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly within two hours of cooking. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing Instructions: This casserole freezes surprisingly well! Once completely cooled, transfer individual portions or the entire remaining casserole into freezer-safe airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating:
  • Microwave: For individual portions, place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-4 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
  • Oven: For larger amounts or if you prefer a crispier top, transfer the desired amount to an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. For a slightly browned top, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes.
  • Stovetop: You can also gently reheat smaller portions in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, adding a splash of broth or milk if the sauce seems too thick.

<h2>Conclusion:</h2>
<p>Well, my friends, we’ve reached the end of our culinary journey, but the real adventure is just beginning in your own kitchen! I genuinely believe that this recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience waiting to happen, a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined with a little love and the magic of a slow cooker, can create something truly extraordinary. <strong>It’s a must-try for anyone seeking ultimate comfort food without the usual fuss.</strong> Think about those chilly evenings, busy weekdays, or even laid-back weekends when you crave something hearty, satisfying, and deeply flavorful. This <strong>Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Easy Recipe</strong> steps up to the plate, delivering a warm hug in a bowl with minimal effort on your part.</p>

<p>What truly sets this dish apart, in my opinion, is its harmonious blend of textures and tastes. You have the tender, pillowy pierogi, bursting with creamy potato and cheese, nestled alongside savory, smoky kielbasa. Then there’s the rich, velvety sauce that envelops everything, tying all the components together into a symphony of flavor. It’s not just a casserole; it’s a complete, well-rounded meal that appeals to nearly everyone, from the pickiest eaters to the most seasoned food enthusiasts. The beauty of the slow cooker method means that all those incredible flavors have ample time to meld and intensify, resulting in a depth of taste you just can’t achieve with faster cooking methods. <strong>It’s the kind of dish that begs for seconds, and truthfully, often gets them!</strong></p>

<p>Now, let’s talk about making this dish truly your own. While it’s absolutely fantastic as is, there are so many ways to personalize your <em>Crockpot Pierogi Casserole</em>. For serving suggestions, I love pairing it with something fresh to cut through the richness. A simple, crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is always a winner. Steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or even some sautéed mushrooms on the side would also make excellent companions, adding a welcome dose of vegetables to your plate. Don’t forget the garnishes! A generous dollop of sour cream on top, a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or green onions, or even some crispy fried onions can elevate the experience both visually and texturally. For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes stirred in at the end can add an exciting kick.</p>

<h4>Craving Variations? I’ve Got You Covered!</h4>
<p>If you’re feeling adventurous or simply want to switch things up, here are some fun variations to consider: <strong>pierogi possibilities are endless!</strong> While potato and cheese pierogi are classic, don’t hesitate to experiment with different fillings like potato and onion, spinach and feta, or even a sweet cheese variety if you’re looking for an unexpected twist. As for the kielbasa, you can easily swap it out for smoked sausage, chicken sausage (for a lighter option), or even a plant-based sausage to cater to different dietary preferences. If you prefer ground meat, cooked ground beef or turkey could also be incorporated, though you might want to add a bit more seasoning to compensate for the different flavor profile.</p>

<p>Feeling cheesy? <strong>Amp up the cheese factor!</strong> While cheddar is fantastic, consider adding a blend of Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a smoky provolone for extra gooeyness and flavor. For an added layer of freshness and nutrition, stir in some sautéed onions and bell peppers during the last hour of cooking, or fold in a handful of fresh spinach just before serving, allowing it to wilt in the residual heat. You could also experiment with different cream soup bases if you have a favorite, or even add a splash of milk or cream to achieve your preferred level of richness and consistency. A pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or even a touch of smoked paprika can further enhance the savory notes of the dish.</p>

<p>So, what are you waiting for? This <strong>Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Easy Recipe</strong> truly is a game-changer for mealtime. <strong>I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try very soon.</strong&gt You’ll be amazed at how effortlessly it comes together and how incredibly satisfying it is to eat. Once you’ve whipped up your own batch, please, please, please come back and share your experience! I love hearing about your successes, your little tweaks, and how you made the recipe your own. Did you add a secret ingredient? Discover a new favorite side dish? Your feedback and creative ideas inspire me and our entire cooking community. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear all about your delicious <em>Crockpot Pierogi Casserole</em> adventure!</p>

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Beef Kielbasa – Quick & Easy

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a delightful and hearty dish that brings together the rich flavors of Eastern European cuisine right into your kitchen. This dish is perfect for those days when you want to enjoy a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Pierogi, which are traditional Polish dumplings, are believed to have originated in the 13th century and have since become a staple in many households around the world. When paired with kielbasa, a flavorful Polish sausage, this casserole becomes an irresistible combination of taste and texture.

Prep Time
25 Minutes

Cook Time
30 Minutes

Total Time
10 Minutes

Servings
6 servings

Ingredients

• 1 package (16 oz) frozen pierogi
• 1 pound beef kielbasa, sliced
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup butter

Instructions

1. Step 1
   In a skillet, melt half (1/8 cup) of the butter. Sauté sliced beef kielbasa for 5-7 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside. Add remaining butter (1/8 cup) to the skillet and soften diced onion for 8-10 minutes until translucent. Set aside.
2. Step 2
   In a bowl, whisk condensed cream of mushroom soup and sour cream until smooth.
3. Step 3
   Lightly grease a 6-quart slow cooker. Layer half of the frozen pierogi at the bottom. Top with half of the sautéed beef kielbasa and half of the softened onions. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar cheese, then spread half of the creamy soup mixture over it.
4. Step 4
   Repeat the layers with the remaining pierogi, beef kielbasa, onions, and soup mixture. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese. Cover and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or HIGH for 2-2.5 hours, until pierogi are tender and sauce is bubbly. Check for doneness at the minimum time to prevent overcooking.
5. Step 5
   Turn off slow cooker and let casserole rest, covered, for 10-15 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chives or green onions if desired.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.