We’ve always loved how a Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa turns simple ingredients into a hearty Polish-inspired feast that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Drawing from traditional Eastern European flavors our families cherish this dish combines tender pierogies and smoky kielbasa in a slow-cooked wonder that fills the house with irresistible aromas.
It’s an easy way to bring comfort food to the table without spending hours in the kitchen. We promise you’ll enjoy the rich cheesy layers and satisfying bites that make this recipe a go-to favorite in our homes.
Ingredients
In our Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa, we carefully select high-quality ingredients to create a comforting, Polish-inspired dish that’s simple yet full of flavor. Below, we list them in the order they’re used, with prep notes for accuracy and ease.
- Pierogies: 1 package (16 oz) frozen pierogies – thaw slightly for even cooking as the base layer in the crockpot.
- Kielbasa: 1 pound smoked kielbasa sausage, sliced into ½-inch rounds – this adds the smoky, savory heart of the dish early in assembly.
- Onion: 1 large yellow onion, diced – sauté briefly if prepping ahead to enhance sweetness and aroma.
- Butter: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – used to coat layers and prevent sticking.
- Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar, grated fresh for that gooey, melty texture in the middle layers.
- Sour Cream: 1 cup full-fat sour cream – stirred in for creaminess toward the end of layering.
- Garlic: 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced – incorporated for a punch of flavor during mixing.
- Chicken Broth: 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth – added to create moisture and depth.
- Seasonings: 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon paprika – combined for seasoning the layers to taste.
This selection ensures our casserole is hearty, cheesy, and packed with authentic flavors, making it a go-to for busy weeknights.
Tools and Equipment
With our high-quality ingredients assembled, we now turn to the essential tools that make preparing our Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa straightforward and efficient. These items ensure even cooking, precise measurements, and safe handling, allowing us to create a hearty, cheesy dish without hassle.
Here’s a detailed list of the key tools we’ll need:
- Crockpot (Slow Cooker): Our star appliance, a 6-quart crockpot works best for this recipe to evenly slow-cook the pierogies and kielbasa, infusing them with rich, smoky flavors over several hours.
- Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife: Use a sturdy cutting board paired with a sharp chef’s knife to dice the onion and slice the kielbasa quickly and safely, minimizing prep time for busy weeknights.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for our seasonings and liquids, so we recommend a set of heat-resistant measuring cups and spoons to portion out ingredients like chicken broth and garlic precisely.
- Large Mixing Bowl: Ideal for combining shredded cheese, sour cream, and other elements, this bowl helps us create the creamy layers that make our casserole irresistibly comforting.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: A heat-safe spatula or wooden spoon is perfect for stirring and layering ingredients in the crockpot, ensuring everything melds together without sticking.
- Oven Mitts: Essential for safely handling the hot crockpot, these protect us during serving and prevent any mishaps when dealing with the warm, bubbling casserole.
By having these tools on hand, we guarantee a seamless cooking process that highlights the authentic, Polish-inspired tastes of our favorite family meal.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our high-quality ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through the straightforward steps to create our Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa. Follow these instructions for a hearty, cheesy dish bursting with authentic Polish flavors.
Prep the Ingredients
First, we slice the kielbasa into 1/2-inch thick rounds to ensure even cooking and a smoky bite that complements the tender pierogies. Next, we dice one medium onion and mince two cloves of garlic for a fragrant base that adds depth to the casserole’s savory layers.
We shred 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese using a box grater for that gooey, melted texture that makes every bite irresistible. In a large mixing bowl, we combine 1 cup of full-fat sour cream with 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth and stir until smooth, creating a creamy mixture that promises rich, comforting flavors.
Assemble the Casserole
We begin by greasing the 6-quart crockpot with 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to prevent sticking and enhance the dish’s buttery aroma. Layer half of the 16-ounce package of frozen pierogies at the bottom for a sturdy base, then add the sliced kielbasa and diced onion on top for a hearty, meaty contrast.
We pour half of the sour cream mixture over the layers, followed by half of the shredded cheddar for a gooey, cheesy seal. Repeat the layers with the remaining pierogies, kielbasa, onion, sour cream mixture, and cheddar to build a multi-layered casserole that will bubble with inviting, golden goodness as it cooks.
Cook in Crockpot
We set the crockpot to low heat and cover it tightly to allow the flavors to meld into a tender, flavorful masterpiece. Cook for 4 to 6 hours until the pierogies are soft and the kielbasa is heated through, filling your kitchen with the irresistible scent of smoked meats and melted cheese.
For optimal results, we stir once halfway through using a spatula to ensure even distribution of the creamy sauce, preventing any dry spots and achieving a uniform, satisfying texture. Once done, we use oven mitts to safely remove the insert and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving warm bites that highlight the dish’s comforting, authentic appeal.
Make-Ahead and Storage
To keep our Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa fresh and flavorful, we recommend thoughtful make-ahead strategies and proper storage methods. This ensures you can enjoy this hearty, Polish-inspired dish even on the busiest days without compromising its comforting, cheesy layers.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing our Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa ahead of time allows for effortless meal planning. Follow these steps to assemble and store it before cooking:
- Prep the ingredients in advance: Start by slicing the kielbasa, dicing the onion, and mincing the garlic as outlined in our instructions section. We suggest preparing these up to 24 hours ahead and storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their fresh, smoky flavors.
- Assemble the layers: In your 6-quart crockpot, layer the frozen pierogies, sliced kielbasa, and creamy mixture of shredded sharp cheddar, full-fat sour cream, and low-sodium chicken broth just as described. Avoid adding any perishable toppings until cooking day to prevent sogginess.
- Refrigerate the assembled casserole: Cover the crockpot insert tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the assembled layers to an airtight container if your crockpot isn’t removable. Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This method lets the flavors meld, enhancing the tender, cheesy goodness of the dish.
- Cook from cold: When ready to cook, remove the insert from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to avoid cracking the crockpot. Then, proceed with the original cooking time, adding 30 minutes if needed for even heating.
Storage Guidelines
Once our Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is cooked, proper storage helps preserve its rich, satisfying bites. Here’s how to handle leftovers safely and effectively:
- Refrigerate promptly: Allow the casserole to cool for about 30 minutes after cooking, then transfer portions to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to keep the pierogies tender and the kielbasa smoky.
- Freeze for longer storage: For extended preservation, divide the cooled casserole into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label each with the date to track freshness. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, locking in the authentic, hearty flavors.
- Reheat safely: Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes per serving or in the crockpot on low for 1-2 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming and maintain the dish’s comforting texture.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 3-4 days | Cool completely before storing; reheat to 165°F for safety. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Use freezer-safe containers; thaw in fridge before reheating. |
| Reheating Time | Varies by method | Microwave: 2-3 minutes; Crockpot: 1-2 hours on low setting. |
Conclusion
We’ve crafted this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa to bring warmth and simplicity to your table. It’s a recipe that’ll quickly become our go-to for cozy family nights.
You’ll love how it delivers authentic flavors with minimal effort.
Give it a try and see why it’s a staple in our kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa?
Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a hearty, Polish-inspired dish featuring tender frozen pierogies, smoky kielbasa, and cheesy layers. It’s an easy, comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights, combining simple ingredients like onions, garlic, cheddar cheese, and sour cream for rich, authentic flavors that the whole family will love.
How do I make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole?
To make it, slice kielbasa and dice onions and garlic. Layer ingredients in a 6-quart crockpot, mix a creamy blend with sour cream and cheese, then cook on low for 4-6 hours. Stir occasionally for even flavor distribution. It’s straightforward and requires minimal prep, ideal for beginners.
What ingredients are needed for this recipe?
Key ingredients include frozen pierogies, smoked kielbasa, diced onion, unsalted butter, shredded sharp cheddar, full-fat sour cream, minced garlic, low-sodium chicken broth, and seasonings. These high-quality items create a cheesy, flavorful casserole that’s hearty and easy to prepare with pantry staples.
Can I prepare Crockpot Pierogi Casserole in advance?
Yes, prep ingredients up to 24 hours ahead and assemble the casserole for refrigeration. This lets flavors meld, making it perfect for busy schedules. Just cook when ready, ensuring a fresh, hot meal without last-minute hassle.
How should I store leftovers of this casserole?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm, maintaining the creamy texture. Always cool the dish first to preserve quality and safety.
Is this recipe suitable for kids or families?
Absolutely, it’s kid-friendly with its comforting, cheesy bites and mild flavors from pierogies and kielbasa. It’s a family favorite for weeknights, offering simple, satisfying portions that appeal to all ages while being easy to customize.
What tools do I need to make this casserole?
You’ll need a 6-quart crockpot for cooking, a cutting board and chef’s knife for prep, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a large mixing bowl for combining ingredients, a spatula for stirring, and oven mitts for safe handling. These basics ensure an efficient process.