Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Beef Kielbasa Recipe

I absolutely love cozy, comforting meals that bring together bold flavors and fuss-free preparation, and that’s exactly why I adore this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Beef Kielbasa Recipe. The combination of tender, cheesy pierogies, savory kielbasa, and creamy cheese sauce cooked low and slow in my crockpot transforms simple ingredients into a hearty, soul-warming dish that feels like a big hug on a plate. This is one of those dishes I reach for when I want something satisfying, tasty, and effortless to prepare, especially when I want to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of friends and family.

Why You'll Love This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Beef Kielbasa Recipe

One of the reasons I cherish this recipe so much is the incredible flavor profile. The smoky, slightly spiced notes from the beef kielbasa pair beautifully with the creamy, cheesy pierogies, balanced by the savory depth of chicken broth that infuses the entire dish. Every bite offers a wonderful mix of textures and tastes, from the tender pierogi dumplings to the melty cheddar cheese topping that creates that perfect golden crust. It’s a comfort food classic with a twist that always makes me feel right at home.

What truly excites me about this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Beef Kielbasa Recipe is how unbelievably easy it is. You literally throw three main ingredients into the crockpot and let it do all the work. The slow cooker makes it perfect for busy days or when I want a delicious dinner waiting for me after a long day without babysitting the stove. Plus, the final step of adding a smooth cream cheese mixture right at the end lifts the whole casserole into something extra creamy and luxurious, making the taste even more memorable.

I also find this dish perfect for a variety of occasions, whether it’s a casual weeknight family dinner, a friendly gathering, or even holiday comfort food when you want something less traditional but equally satisfying. It stands out because it’s both unique and nostalgic, merging pierogi dumplings—a beloved comfort food staple—with the convenience of slow cooking, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every single time.

Ingredients You'll Need

Getting the ingredients together for this recipe is delightfully simple, and each one plays a crucial role in bringing the casserole to life. The cheddar pierogies provide the chewy, cheesy base, while the beef kielbasa adds a smoky and savory kick. Chicken broth moistens everything and helps the flavors meld, while cream cheese and shredded cheddar take the richness and creaminess to the next level.

• Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies: These frozen pierogies are the star of the dish, providing cheesy, chewy dumplings that soak up all the flavors.
• Chicken Broth: Essential for cooking the pierogies slowly, it adds moisture and depth to the entire casserole.
• Cream Cheese: Added near the end, it creates a luscious, creamy sauce that binds everything together perfectly.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sprinkled inside and on top, it adds sharpness and a gooey finish that makes each bite irresistible.
• Beef Kielbasa: Sliced and cooked with the pierogies, it brings a smoky, savory punch that rounds out the dish.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance and balance all the flavors without overpowering.

Directions

Step 1: I start by grabbing my 4-6 quart crockpot and layering in three cups of chicken broth, the frozen cheddar pierogies, sliced beef kielbasa, and one cup of shredded cheddar cheese. I make sure to spread the ingredients out evenly so every scoop will have the perfect mix.

Step 2: Then I cover the crockpot, set it to high, and let it cook for 3 to 4 hours. If I have more time, I set it to low and cook for 6 hours instead. This slow cooking process is where all the flavors come together and the pierogies get tender without falling apart.

Step 3: About 30 minutes before the cooking finishes, I warm the block of cream cheese with the remaining one cup of chicken broth—either in the microwave or on the stove—until it’s smooth and creamy. I whisk it well to remove any lumps so it blends perfectly when added later.

Step 4: I pour this velvety cream cheese mixture into the crockpot and stir everything together thoroughly. Then, I sprinkle the last cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. I cover the crockpot again and cook on low for an additional 30 minutes, which lets the cheese melt beautifully and the flavors marry even more.

Step 5: When it’s done, I serve the casserole piping hot and if I’m feeling fancy, I add a handful of sliced green onions on top for a fresh color pop and mild crunch. This adds a lovely textural contrast to the creamy, cheesy casserole.

Servings and Timing

This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Beef Kielbasa Recipe makes about 4 generous servings, which is perfect for a small family dinner or for meal prepping leftovers. The prep time is wonderfully short—around 10 minutes to gather and add your ingredients. Cook time depends on your crockpot setting: about 3 to 4 hours on high or 6 hours on low, plus the last 30 minutes for finishing with cream cheese and extra cheddar. Altogether, you’re looking at roughly 6 hours and 10 minutes total from start to finish, with minimal hands-on time, making it incredibly convenient.

How to Serve This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Beef Kielbasa Recipe

When I serve this casserole, I love to keep things simple yet thoughtfully complement the rich flavors. A fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast, balancing the creamy, cheesy richness of the dish beautifully. Roasted veggies or steamed green beans are also great side options to add a little brightness and color to the plate.

For garnishing, sliced green onions or a sprinkle of fresh parsley work wonders, adding vibrant color and a touch of freshness that lifts the heavier elements. I sometimes add a dollop of sour cream on the side for anyone who loves a creamy tang with their pierogi casserole. It’s a presentation touch that turns a family dinner into something special without extra fuss.

I find this casserole pairs nicely with a variety of drinks. For a casual gathering, a crisp lager or pilsner complements the smoky kielbasa perfectly. If I’m serving it for a cozy dinner, a glass of chilled white wine like Riesling or a light red such as Pinot Noir brings an elegant balance to the meal. Non-alcoholic options like sparkling water with lemon or a cold iced tea with a splash of citrus are refreshingly perfect, especially for family meals.

Variations

I love experimenting with this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Beef Kielbasa Recipe because it’s so versatile. If you want to switch up the protein, smoked turkey kielbasa or even a spicy chicken sausage bring fun flavor twists while keeping that wonderful smoky depth. For a vegetarian option, you can swap the kielbasa for hearty mushrooms or plant-based sausage alternatives that mimic the savory notes really well.

For those who need gluten-free adaptations, just make sure to use gluten-free pierogies (available at select stores) and confirm that your broth and sausage have no gluten-containing ingredients. The rest of the recipe fits nicely into a gluten-free lifestyle! I’ve also tried adding extra veggies like caramelized onions, bell peppers, or spinach for texture and nutrients. It’s a great way to boost the casserole while keeping it hearty.

If you’re short on crockpot time, you could adapt this casserole for the oven by layering the ingredients in a baking dish and baking covered at 350°F (175°C) until the pierogies are cooked through and tender—usually about 45-60 minutes—then topping with the cream cheese mixture and baking uncovered a bit longer to melt the cheese. It’s not quite as hands-off, but still very doable and delicious.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

I always store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge, ideally glass or BPA-free plastic, to keep the casserole fresh. It keeps well for up to 3 to 4 days. When I reheat, the flavors are still just as comforting and the creamy texture holds up beautifully as long as it is stored promptly after serving.

Freezing

This casserole freezes quite well! I like to portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, pressing out the air before sealing. It’s perfect for up to 2 months in the freezer. When freezing, I leave out any fresh garnishes like green onions, adding those fresh when serving later. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer using the oven or stovetop over the microwave. Cover the casserole lightly with foil and warm it at 325°F (165°C) until heated through to keep the creamy texture intact. On the stovetop, gently warming over medium-low heat with a splash of broth keeps it from drying. Microwaving works in a pinch but can result in uneven heat and a slightly different texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage instead of beef kielbasa?

Absolutely! While beef kielbasa provides a nice smoky flavor, you can use smoked turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a spicy Italian sausage depending on your preference. Just make sure to slice it evenly so it cooks thoroughly and distributes flavor throughout the casserole.

Do I need to thaw the pierogies before cooking?

No need to thaw them! I always use the frozen pierogies straight from the freezer. The slow cooker cooks them perfectly, so they end up tender and delicious without falling apart.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients the night before and store them in the crockpot insert covered in the fridge. When you're ready, set the crockpot to cook as directed. Just be sure to add the cream cheese mixture at the designated time to keep the texture perfect.

What if I don’t have cream cheese on hand?

If you’re out of cream cheese, a thick sour cream or Greek yogurt can be used as substitutes to add creaminess, but keep in mind this will slightly change the texture and tanginess of the casserole.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely! Kids love the cheesy pierogies and mild sausage, and you can keep the seasoning gentle to suit younger palates. It’s a great way to introduce them to kielbasa and comfort food that feels a bit special yet simple.

Conclusion

I can’t recommend this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Beef Kielbasa Recipe enough for anyone who loves easy, satisfying meals packed with flavor and warmth. It’s one of those recipes that feels extra special but takes minimal effort, making it a favorite in my home for busy nights or relaxed weekend dinners. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to crockpot comfort food!

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