This Easy Crockpot Pierogi Casserole is a comforting dish packed with cheesy goodness and delicious kielbasa. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work!
It’s a set-it-and-forget-it meal, perfect for busy days. I love serving it with a dollop of sour cream on top—it makes it even yummier! Who doesn’t love cheesy, hearty meals that are ready when you are? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pierogi: Frozen cheese and potato pierogi are the star here for their convenience and flavor. If you can’t find them, you can make homemade pierogi or use store-bought varieties with different fillings like mushroom or meat.
Kielbasa: Kielbasa adds a nice smokiness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey kielbasa works great too. For a vegetarian twist, consider using veggie sausage or skip the sausage altogether and add more veggies!
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for a strong flavor, but feel free to use mild cheddar or even a blend of cheeses. If you want it dairy-free, try a plant-based cheese that melts well.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess to the casserole. Greek yogurt or vegan sour cream can be used as tasty substitutes if you want a healthier option or have dairy restrictions.
How Do You Ensure the Best Texture in a Crockpot Casserole?
The texture can really make or break this dish, so let’s focus on layering and cooking properly. Start with a non-stick spray, this helps everything come out smoothly. Layering evenly distributes flavors and ensures consistency.
- Use frozen pierogi directly; no need to thaw them first.
- Cook on low for that perfect tender texture, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
- Stir gently if necessary, but avoid heavy stirring to keep the pierogi intact.
Finally, don’t skip the garnish! Fresh parsley or green onions add a pop of color and freshness, pulling your dish together beautifully. Enjoy making this simple yet satisfying casserole!
Easy Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (20-24 oz) frozen pierogi (cheese and potato variety recommended)
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delectable casserole takes about 10 minutes to prep and can cook in your crockpot for 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Set it up in the morning, and enjoy a warm, hearty meal by dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crockpot:
Start by spraying the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray to ensure everything releases easily. No one likes a stuck casserole!
2. Start Layering:
Begin by layering half of the frozen pierogi evenly at the bottom of the crockpot. This will form the base that holds all the delicious layers together.
3. Add Kielbasa and Onions:
Take half of the sliced kielbasa and scatter it over the pierogi. Next, add the thinly sliced onions. This will infuse everything with flavor as it cooks!
4. Cheese Time!
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the kielbasa and onions. This cheesy goodness is what makes this dish so comforting!
5. Repeat Layers:
Now, repeat the layering process with the remaining pierogi, kielbasa, onions, and top it off with the remaining cheddar cheese.
6. Mix the Sauce:
In a small bowl, take the sour cream, milk, melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until smooth and well combined.
7. Pour Over Layers:
Carefully pour the creamy mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the crockpot, making sure to cover everything nicely.
8. Cooking Time:
Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Check occasionally to ensure the pierogi are tender and everything is hot and bubbly.
9. Finish with Garnish:
Once cooked, garnish with fresh parsley or green onions before serving. This adds a lovely color and a fresh crunch!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve warm, optionally with extra sour cream on the side for those who love a little extra creaminess. Enjoy this comforting, easy-to-make pierogi casserole that’s sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa
Can I Use Fresh Pierogi Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can certainly use fresh pierogi! Just adjust the cooking time to about 3-4 hours on low or 1.5-2 hours on high, as fresh pierogi don’t need as long to cook through compared to frozen ones.
What’s a Good Substitute for Kielbasa?
If you don’t have kielbasa, any smoked sausage will work well, such as turkey sausage, Polish sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage option. Just make sure to slice it into rounds for the best distribution of flavor!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can layer everything in the crockpot the night before, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Just remember to take it out and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to help it heat evenly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or sour cream to restore creaminess if needed.
