Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
This Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for easy weeknight dinners. Featuring cheesy pierogies and savory kielbasa simmered slowly in rich chicken broth with a creamy cheddar cheese sauce, this crockpot recipe melds flavors beautifully with minimal effort. The slow cooking method infuses the pierogies and kielbasa with a deep, savory taste, topped with a luscious cream cheese sauce for extra richness. Ideal for fans of Central European-inspired comfort food looking for a hands-off, delicious meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes (low) or 4 hours 10 minutes (high)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Eastern European
Ingredients
Scale
For the Casserole:
- 3 packages Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies (about 24 oz total)
- 1 lb kielbasa, sliced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: In a 4-6 quart crockpot, add the frozen Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies, sliced kielbasa, 3 cups of chicken broth, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently to evenly distribute the ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste to start building the flavor base.
- Cook Pierogi Casserole: Set the crockpot to cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6 hours. This slow cooking allows the pierogies and kielbasa to absorb the broth and cheese flavors, creating a flavorful and hearty casserole. Longer cooking on low enhances depth of flavor.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Topping: About 30 minutes before the casserole finishes, soften the cream cheese by placing it with 1 cup chicken broth in a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan. Warm gently in the microwave or over low heat on the stovetop. Whisk until completely smooth and lump-free.
- Add Cheese Sauce and Final Cheese: Pour the smooth cream cheese mixture into the crockpot and stir gently until well combined. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and cook on low for an additional 30 minutes to let the cheese melt and flavors meld.
- Serve: When the casserole is bubbling and cheese is melted, it is ready to serve. Spoon onto plates while hot. Optionally garnish with sliced green onions for extra color and fresh flavor. Enjoy this rich and comforting dish!
Notes
- Cooking on low heat enhances flavor but requires more time, while high heat is faster but less developed taste.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat cheddar cheese.
- Garnishing with fresh herbs like green onions or parsley adds a nice pop of color and freshness.
- Ensure the crockpot is adequately sized (4-6 quarts) to avoid overflow and allow proper cooking.
- Frozen pierogies can be used directly; no need to thaw before cooking.
Keywords: pierogi casserole, crockpot pierogi, kielbasa recipe, slow cooker casserole, comfort food, cheesy casserole
