Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Recipe

Ever wondered how a humble slow cooker could transform traditional Eastern European ingredients into a mouthwatering meal? You'll love this crockpot pierogi casserole with kielbasa—a dish that turns weeknight dinners from mundane to memorable. It's more than just a recipe; it's a culinary shortcut that combines convenience with classic comfort food. If you're looking for a hearty, no-fuss meal that'll impress your family and save you time in the kitchen, you're in the right place. Stick around, and I'll show you how to create a crowd-pleasing dinner that'll have everyone asking for seconds.

Recipe Highlights

• A crockpot pierogi casserole combines frozen potato and cheese pierogies with kielbasa sausage for an easy, hearty one-pot meal.
• Layer frozen pierogies, sliced kielbasa, cream of mushroom soup, sliced onions, and shredded cheddar cheese in a greased slow cooker.
• Use 24 oz of frozen pierogies, 1 lb of kielbasa, 1 can of cream of mushroom soup, and 2 cups of cheddar cheese as primary ingredients.
• Cook on low heat for 3-4 hours, ensuring pierogies are heated through and cheese is melted for a rich, satisfying comfort food dish.
• Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables, and consider adding fresh herbs or experimenting with different cheese blends for added flavor complexity.

History

While pierogies trace their roots back to Eastern European cuisine, particularly Poland, their journey to becoming a beloved comfort food is a fascinating culinary tale.

You'll find that these delicate dumplings have been a staple in Polish households for centuries, traditionally handmade with love and filled with potatoes, cheese, sauerkraut, or meat.

As immigrants brought their cherished recipes to America, pierogies evolved.

You'll notice how they transformed from a labor-intensive homemade dish to a convenient frozen food that still maintains cultural authenticity. The adaptation of pierogi recipes, like this crockpot version, shows how traditional cuisine can embrace modern cooking techniques while preserving its rich heritage.

Your connection to this dish isn't just about eating—it's about experiencing a piece of culinary history.

Recipe

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa offers a delightful twist on traditional Polish comfort food, transforming simple ingredients into a hearty and satisfying meal. This slow-cooker recipe brings together the rich flavors of potato and cheese pierogies with smoky kielbasa, creating a dish that's both comforting and incredibly easy to prepare.

The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity, requiring minimal preparation and just a few ingredients. By layering frozen pierogies, kielbasa, onions, and cheese in a slow cooker, you'll create a mouthwatering meal that tastes like it took hours of careful cooking.

Ingredients:

• 24 oz frozen potato and cheese pierogies
• 1 lb kielbasa, sliced into rounds
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Cooking spray

Grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Begin by creating the first layer of the casserole: arrange half of the frozen pierogies across the bottom of the slow cooker, ensuring they're evenly distributed.

Top the pierogies with half of the sliced kielbasa and onions, then pour half of the cream of mushroom soup over the layer.

Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top.

Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients, creating a second identical layer. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours. The casserole is ready when the pierogies are tender, the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the kielbasa is heated through.

Avoid stirring during cooking to maintain the distinct layers and prevent the pierogies from breaking apart. For best results, check the casserole at the 4-hour mark if your slow cooker tends to run hot.

If preparing the casserole in advance, it can be assembled the night before and refrigerated, but allow an extra 30 minutes of cooking time when starting from a cold state.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.

Cooking Steps

Start by thoroughly greasing your slow cooker to prevent sticking, creating a smooth surface for layering.

Carefully arrange half of the frozen pierogies across the bottom of the cooker, followed by a generous layer of sliced kielbasa and onions, ensuring even distribution for consistent flavor.

Complete the first layer by pouring half the cream of mushroom soup and sprinkling a hearty portion of shredded cheddar cheese before repeating the entire process for a rich, satisfying casserole.

Step 1. Grease Slow Cooker Thoroughly

The first crucial step in preparing your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole involves thoroughly greasing your slow cooker to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Use a paper towel or cooking spray to coat every interior surface, focusing on:

• Bottom of the ceramic insert
• Sides up to the top rim
• Areas prone to food buildup

Select a high-quality non-stick cooking spray or mild cooking oil like vegetable or canola. Aim for an even, thin layer that'll create a protective barrier between your ingredients and the cooker's surface.

Don't miss the corners or edges, where food tends to catch and burn. Distribute the grease carefully, rotating the slow cooker to ensure complete coverage.

A well-greased pot means simpler serving, easier washing, and a more enjoyable cooking experience.

Step 2. Layer Half the Pierogies

Your first pierogi layer sets the foundation for this comforting casserole, so take care to distribute the frozen potato and cheese pierogies evenly across the bottom of your greased slow cooker.

Aim for a single layer that covers most of the bottom surface, allowing some small gaps for heat circulation.

Key layering tips:

• Use approximately 12 oz (half the package) of frozen pierogies
• Arrange pierogies flat side down for optimal heat absorption
• Overlap slightly if needed to maximize coverage
• Ensure pierogies aren't stacked on top of each other

The goal is creating a uniform base that'll support subsequent ingredients.

Frozen pierogies work best here, as they'll slowly thaw and absorb surrounding flavors during the cooking process. Your careful placement now will contribute to a perfectly textured final dish.

Step 3. Add Kielbasa Layer

Because kielbasa adds a smoky, rich dimension to your pierogi casserole, you'll want to slice the sausage into uniform rounds about 1/2-inch thick. This consistent size ensures even cooking and distribution throughout the dish.

Carefully arrange the kielbasa rounds over the first layer of pierogies, creating a complete, overlapping coverage that guarantees every bite will include that delicious smoky sausage flavor.

Key kielbasa placement tips:

• Space rounds evenly
• Allow slight overlap
• Cover entire pierogi layer
• Use sharp knife for clean cuts

When positioning the kielbasa, aim for maximum coverage without crowding. The sausage will release its flavorful oils during slow cooking, which will help infuse the entire casserole with a deep, savory essence that elevates the entire dish.

Step 4. Add Remaining Cream Soup

After carefully layering kielbasa rounds across your first pierogi foundation, you'll want to generously pour the remaining cream of mushroom soup over the casserole.

This creamy layer will help bind the ingredients and infuse rich, savory flavor throughout the dish.

Ensure you distribute the soup evenly, using a spatula or spoon to spread it across all the layers. The cream of mushroom soup acts as a critical moisture barrier, preventing the pierogies from drying out during the slow cooking process.

Pay special attention to covering the edges and corners, where ingredients might potentially become less saturated.

Your goal is a uniform coating that promises a luscious, comforting final result.

Take your time and spread carefully.

Step 5. Sprinkle Remaining Cheese

Dust the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top layer of your slow cooker pierogi casserole, ensuring complete coverage from edge to edge.

You'll want to distribute the cheese carefully, using about 1 cup of the remaining shredded cheddar to create a golden, melty topping.

Focus on creating an even layer that'll provide a rich, tangy finish to your dish.

• Sprinkle cheese systematically
• Cover entire surface uniformly
• Use gentle, sweeping motions

Pay attention to the edges, making sure no areas are left uncovered. The cheese will melt and create a delicious, crispy crust during the final cooking stages.

Your goal is a beautifully blanketed casserole that'll make mouths water the moment it's unveiled from the slow cooker.

Final Thoughts

If you're looking for a comforting meal that brings together simplicity and flavor, this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole delivers exactly what home cooks crave. The recipe transforms basic ingredients into a satisfying dish that'll become a family favorite. You'll appreciate how minimal prep work translates into maximum taste, with layers of pierogies, kielbasa, and cheese melding into a hearty meal. Consider serving this casserole with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. The slow cooker does most of the work, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Pro tip: If you want to elevate the dish, try experimenting with different cheese blends or adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving. Your dinner guests will be impressed by this easy yet delicious Polish-inspired comfort food.