This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is warm, cheesy, creamy, and so easy. You add everything to the slow cooker, let it cook, then stir in cheese at the end. It tastes like comfort food with very little work.
Servings and Cook Time
Servings: 6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 3 to 4 hours on LOW or 1 1/2 to 2 hours on HIGH
Total time: about 3 hours 10 minutes on LOW
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it feels like something you would bring to the table after a long day when everyone is hungry and you need dinner to be simple. The pierogies get soft and tender, the kielbasa adds smoky flavor, and the cheese melts into a creamy sauce that makes every bite rich and cozy.
This is one of those meals that does not try too hard. It is filling, simple, and tastes like home.
- It uses easy freezer and fridge staples.
- The crockpot does most of the work.
- Kielbasa adds big flavor fast.
- The pierogies make it hearty without extra prep.
- The creamy cheese sauce pulls everything together.
What You’ll Need
- 2 pounds frozen cheddar pierogies
- 14 ounces kielbasa, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, for topping
Tools You’ll Need
- Black oval crockpot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing spoon
- Small bowl
Pro Tips
- Keep the pierogies frozen. Do not thaw them first.
- Slice the kielbasa the same size so it cooks evenly.
- Add sour cream at the end so it stays creamy.
- Use freshly shredded cheese if you can. It melts better.
- Stir gently so the pierogies do not break apart.
Recipe and Instructions
Step 1: Add the Pierogies
Place 2 pounds frozen cheddar pierogies into the black oval crockpot in an even layer.
Step 2: Add Kielbasa and Onion
Add 14 ounces kielbasa sliced into 1/2-inch rounds and 1 small diced onion over the frozen pierogies.
Step 3: Add Broth and Seasoning
Pour in 1 cup chicken broth. Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon salt over the top.
Step 4: Add Cream Cheese
Place 4 ounces cubed cream cheese over the top. Cover the crockpot with the lid.
Step 5: Cook
Cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours or on HIGH for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, until the pierogies are tender and the sauce is hot.
Step 6: Stir in Cheese and Sour Cream
Gently stir in 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup sour cream until the sauce is creamy. Save 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese for the top.
Step 7: Add More Cheese and Finish
Sprinkle the saved 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover for 5 to 10 minutes, until melted. Top with 2 tablespoons chopped parsley.
Why This Recipe Works Quick Science
Frozen pierogies cook slowly in the broth, so they turn soft without falling apart. The cream cheese melts into the broth and makes a thick sauce. Cheddar cheese adds flavor and helps the sauce become smooth. Sour cream goes in at the end so it stays creamy and does not split.
Macros Infomation
Approximate per serving:
- Calories: 560
- Protein: 22g
- Carbs: 48g
- Fat: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
Substitutions and Variations
- Use potato and onion pierogies instead of cheddar pierogies.
- Use smoked sausage instead of kielbasa.
- Use mozzarella for a milder cheese flavor.
- Add cooked bacon for extra smoky flavor.
- Add frozen peas during the last 30 minutes.
Make Ahead Tips
You can slice the kielbasa and dice the onion 1 day ahead. Keep them in the fridge until ready to use. Do not add the frozen pierogies until you are ready to cook.
Common Mistakes
- Thawing the pierogies first can make them too soft.
- Stirring too hard can break the pierogies.
- Adding sour cream too early can make the sauce grainy.
- Cooking too long can make the pierogies mushy.
- Using too much salt can make it too salty because kielbasa is already salty.
What to Serve With
- Green salad
- Roasted broccoli
- Steamed green beans
- Garlic bread
- Cucumber salad
- Applesauce
Leftovers and Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring gently. Add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce gets too thick.
Freezing is not best because the pierogies and creamy sauce can turn soft after thawing.
FAQ
Q: Can I use fresh pierogies?
A: Yes. Fresh pierogies cook faster, so check them early.
Q: Can I make this without cream cheese?
A: Yes. Use extra sour cream, but the sauce will be thinner.
Q: Can I brown the kielbasa first?
A: Yes. Brown it on a modern stainless steel gas stove in a skillet for more flavor.
Q: Can I double this recipe?
A: Yes, but use a large crockpot and add more cook time if needed.
Q: Is this spicy?
A: No. It is creamy and mild.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is simple, cozy, and full of flavor. Make it on a busy day, serve it warm, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite. Leave a comment with how it turned out or any questions you have.