Crock Pot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
Introduction
This Crock Pot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a comforting and easy meal perfect for busy days. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory kielbasa, it’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 3 boxes Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies (regular or mini; mini preferred)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese (cut into small cubes)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 lb kielbasa (sliced)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Step 1: Slice the kielbasa into bite-sized pieces and cut the cream cheese into small cubes.
- Step 2: Place the pierogies into the crockpot, then add the sliced kielbasa on top.
- Step 3: Scatter the cream cheese cubes and shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the kielbasa and pierogies.
- Step 4: Pour the chicken broth over all the ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 5: Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6 hours, stirring gently once or twice during cooking to help the cheeses melt evenly.
- Step 6: Check that the pierogies are tender and the cheese has formed a creamy sauce. Serve hot directly from the crockpot.
Tips & Variations
- For extra veggies, add sliced onions or bell peppers when layering the kielbasa.
- Mini pierogies tend to cook more evenly, but regular-sized work well too.
- Use smoked kielbasa for a deeper smoky flavor.
- To make it spicier, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture. Avoid overcooking when reheating to prevent the pierogies from becoming mushy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage instead of kielbasa?
Yes, you can substitute kielbasa with smoked sausage, bratwurst, or even breakfast sausage, but kielbasa provides a classic smoky flavor that complements pierogies well.
Do I need to thaw the pierogies before cooking?
No, you can add frozen pierogies directly to the crockpot. Just be aware that cooking time may be slightly longer if they are frozen solid.
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Crock Pot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Crock Pot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a comforting and easy slow cooker meal featuring cheddar pierogies, savory kielbasa, and a creamy cheesy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, it melds tender pierogies with flavorful sausage and melted cheeses all cooked to perfection in a crockpot.
Ingredients
Primary Ingredients
- 3 boxes Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies (regular or mini; mini preferred)
- 1 lb kielbasa, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Slice the kielbasa into bite-sized pieces and cut the cream cheese into small cubes to ensure they melt evenly during cooking.
- Assemble the Casserole: Place the pierogies into the crockpot evenly. Layer the sliced kielbasa over the pierogies, followed by the cream cheese cubes and shredded cheddar cheese. Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients and season with salt and pepper to your preference.
- Cook the Casserole: Cover the crockpot and cook on high heat for 3 to 4 hours or on low heat for about 6 hours. Stir gently once or twice during cooking to help the cheeses melt evenly and create a creamy sauce.
- Serve the Casserole: Once the pierogies are tender and the cheese sauce is fully melted and creamy, serve the casserole hot directly from the crockpot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can use either regular or mini pierogies; mini pierogies tend to cook more evenly in the crockpot.
- Stirring occasionally is key to preventing the cheese from clumping and ensuring a smooth sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the chicken broth to 3 cups.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot paprika.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat easily in the microwave or stovetop.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 to 6 hours (depending on crockpot setting)
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: crockpot pierogi casserole, kielbasa recipe, slow cooker pierogies, cheesy pierogi casserole, easy crockpot dinner
