If you love comfort food, this Slow Cooker Pierogi and Kielbasa Casserole is going to be your new favorite dish. Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with smoky kielbasa flavor, this dish brings together the best of Polish flavors in a simple, hands-off slow cooker meal. The pierogies become irresistibly soft, soaking up the rich cheddar and cream cheese sauce, while the kielbasa adds a satisfying, savory bite.
This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want a homemade meal without the effort. Toss everything into the slow cooker, let the flavors meld together, and come home to a delicious, heartwarming dinner. Whether you’re serving it up for a family dinner, a potluck, or just a cozy night in, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 3 packages frozen cheddar pierogies (such as Mrs. T’s)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz block cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 lb kielbasa, sliced into rounds
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
Directions:
- In a 4-6 quart slow cooker, add 3 cups of chicken broth, frozen pierogies, sliced kielbasa, ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on High for 3-4 hours or Low for 6 hours, until the pierogies are tender and the kielbasa is heated through.
- About 30 minutes before cooking is complete, warm the cream cheese with the remaining 1 cup of chicken broth on the stovetop or in the microwave. Whisk until smooth.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture into the slow cooker and stir well. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top. Cover and cook for another 30 minutes on Low until the cheese is melted.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 4 hours | Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 480 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
Slow Cooker Pierogi and Kielbasa Casserole – A Hearty Comfort Food Classic
If you’re looking for a dish that is both indulgent and effortless to prepare, Slow Cooker Pierogi and Kielbasa Casserole is the perfect solution. This warm, creamy, and cheesy dish combines tender pierogies, smoky kielbasa, and a rich, velvety sauce that makes every bite irresistibly delicious. It’s a meal that evokes a sense of nostalgia and comfort, reminiscent of home-cooked family dinners and cozy gatherings on chilly evenings.
With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, this dish is a set-it-and-forget-it kind of meal ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or even a comforting weekend dinner. The magic happens as the ingredients slowly cook together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The result? A dish that’s creamy, hearty, and packed with bold flavors that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
One of the best things about this Slow Cooker Pierogi and Kielbasa Casserole is how effortless it is to prepare. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. Here are a few reasons why this dish stands out:
1. It’s the Ultimate Comfort Food
There’s something about warm, cheesy dishes that instantly bring comfort. The combination of soft, pillowy pierogies, smoky kielbasa, and a rich, creamy sauce makes this dish a satisfying and indulgent meal. Each bite is filled with gooey cheese, tender dumplings, and a savory kick from the kielbasa.
2. Minimal Prep, Maximum Convenience
Slow cooker meals are a lifesaver for busy individuals. Unlike traditional pierogi recipes that might require boiling or pan-frying, this dish lets the slow cooker do all the work. Just toss everything into the pot, set the timer, and let the flavors develop while you go about your day.
3. Perfect for Potlucks and Gatherings
This dish is a fantastic option for potlucks, game-day parties, or family get-togethers. It’s a one-pot wonder that serves a crowd, and the cheesy, smoky flavors are always a hit. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to transport just bring the slow cooker along, and you have a warm, ready-to-serve dish.
4. Customizable to Your Taste
While the classic combination of cheddar pierogies and kielbasa is delicious on its own, there’s plenty of room for customization. You can easily add vegetables like onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor. Love bacon? Toss in some crispy bacon bits for an added layer of smokiness. Prefer a different type of sausage? Swap the kielbasa for smoked sausage, chorizo, or even diced ham.
The Star Ingredients That Make This Dish Shine
While this dish is incredibly simple, each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating layers of flavor that blend beautifully in the slow cooker.
- Pierogies – These little pockets of dough are traditionally filled with creamy mashed potatoes and cheese, making them the perfect base for a comforting casserole. They absorb the sauce while maintaining their soft, pillowy texture.
- Kielbasa – A Polish-style smoked sausage that brings a delicious smoky, garlicky flavor to the dish. It pairs wonderfully with the creamy, cheesy sauce.
- Cheese – Cheddar cheese melts into the sauce, adding a tangy, savory depth. The result is a luscious, velvety texture that coats the pierogies beautifully.
- Cream Cheese & Chicken Broth – The combination of softened cream cheese and broth creates a silky, creamy sauce that binds all the ingredients together. The broth enhances the savory notes, making each bite even more flavorful.
Serving Suggestions – What Goes Well with This Casserole?
This dish is hearty enough to be served on its own, but you can elevate the meal by pairing it with simple sides that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options:
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables – Balance the richness of the dish with some roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans, or steamed broccoli.
- A Crisp Green Salad – A fresh, tangy salad with vinaigrette dressing helps cut through the creaminess of the casserole.
- Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls – Perfect for scooping up the delicious cheesy sauce.
- Sauerkraut or Pickles – The acidity and tanginess of pickled vegetables contrast beautifully with the creamy, cheesy flavors.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Pierogi and Kielbasa Casserole
To make sure your casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:
-
Use a Full-Fat Cream Cheese for the Best Texture
- Lower-fat cream cheese tends to be more watery and won’t create the same rich, creamy consistency. Stick to full-fat for the best results.
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Layer Ingredients Evenly for Even Cooking
- Distribute the pierogies and kielbasa evenly to ensure that everything is cooked through and absorbs the flavors properly.
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Don’t Overcook
- While slow cookers are forgiving, overcooking can make the pierogies too soft. Stick to the recommended cooking times to maintain the perfect texture.
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Let the Sauce Thicken at the End
- Stirring in the warm cream cheese and letting it sit for an extra 30 minutes on Low helps the sauce fully blend and develop its creamy consistency.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which isn’t always likely because this dish disappears fast!), you’ll be happy to know that this casserole stores and reheats beautifully.
- Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze – For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheat – Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to bring back the creamy texture.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Pierogi and Kielbasa Casserole is a dish that brings together simplicity, convenience, and rich, comforting flavors in one easy to make meal. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or just because you’re craving a warm, hearty dish, this casserole is guaranteed to hit the spot.
With just a handful of ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Try it out, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new family favorite that everyone requests again and again!