This hearty Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a warm and comforting dish! With layers of cheesy pierogies and savory kielbasa, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner.
Cooking it in a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it! My family loves coming home to that yummy smell. Plus, who doesn’t love a one-pot meal that makes cleanup a breeze?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pierogi: Frozen pierogi are super convenient. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make fresh pierogi at home, or use store-bought dumplings like ravioli or tortellini as a substitute.
Kielbasa: I love using kielbasa for its smoky flavor. If you want a lighter option or have dietary restrictions, turkey kielbasa or even sautéed mushrooms can work well as alternatives.
Onion: A medium onion adds flavor and sweetness. If onions aren’t your thing, consider using shallots for a milder taste, or simply skip them altogether.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar gives this dish its cheesy goodness. Feel free to swap it with Monterey Jack or a blend of your favorite cheeses for something different.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you prefer homemade, you can create a simple version by blending sautéed mushrooms with cream and broth. Opt for a vegan soup if you want a dairy-free option.
How Do I Achieve the Right Texture in the Casserole?
Getting that perfect texture in this casserole is key. Start by layering your ingredients carefully as it helps everything cook evenly. Make sure the pierogi are well-coated with the soup mixture—this keeps them nice and moist.
- Use frozen pierogi directly without thawing them to ensure they hold their shape.
- Layering is important: create a balance between pierogi, kielbasa, veggies, and sauce.
- Cooking on low will give you the best texture; if you’re in a hurry, high works too, just keep an eye on it.
- Don’t skip the garnishing with fresh parsley; it brightens the dish!
How to Make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 package (16 oz) frozen pierogi (cheese or potato filling)
- 1 lb kielbasa, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy casserole will take about 20 minutes of prep time and then 6 to 8 hours in your crockpot if cooking on low, or 3 to 4 hours if cooking on high. Just mix your ingredients, layer them in the slow cooker, and let it do the work while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, minced garlic, paprika, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. This will be the delicious sauce for your casserole!
2. Start Layering in the Crockpot:
In your slow cooker, layer half of the frozen pierogi at the bottom. On top of that, add half of the sliced kielbasa and half of the diced onion. It should look colorful and inviting!
3. Add the Sauce and Cheese:
Now, pour half of your creamy sauce mixture over the first layer. Make it even so every bite will be tasty! Then, sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the sauce.
4. Repeat the Layers:
Time to repeat! Add the remaining pierogi, followed by the rest of the kielbasa and onion. Pour over the last half of the sauce mixture and top it off with the rest of the cheddar cheese. Yum!
5. Cooking Time:
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. It’s done when the pierogi are tender and heated through. Don’t rush it; let that delicious smell fill your kitchen!
6. Finishing Touches:
Once it’s cooked, garnish your casserole with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Then, scoop it out, serve warm, and enjoy your creamy, comforting Crockpot Pierogi Casserole!
Can I Use Fresh Pierogi Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you have fresh pierogi, just reduce the cooking time slightly as they will require less time to heat through, approximately 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Just make sure they’re cooked until they’re tender and heated throughout.
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Mushroom Soup?
No worries! You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or even a homemade white sauce. For a healthier option, you might consider using a can of diced tomatoes with some added spices for flavor, though this will change the dish to a tomato-based casserole.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. Just chop them up and layer them in with the other ingredients – no need to pre-cook them since they’ll soften nicely during the slow cooking process!
