This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the perfect weeknight meal when you crave something rich, satisfying, and hassle-free. The dish combines creamy cheddar pierogies, smoky slices of browned kielbasa, and melty cheese, all simmered in savory chicken broth and finished with a velvety cream cheese sauce.
It’s a one-pot wonder that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for feeding a hungry family or serving as a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this cheesy casserole is hearty, budget-friendly, and endlessly comforting. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting—just set it and forget it until it’s time to serve up a bowl of cheesy, creamy joy.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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36 frozen cheddar pierogies (Mrs. T’s recommended)
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4 cups chicken broth (divided)
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1 (8 oz) block cream cheese
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
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½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
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1 lb kielbasa, sliced and browned
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Salt and pepper to taste (optional)
Directions:
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In a large skillet, brown sliced kielbasa over medium heat for about 5 minutes. Set aside.
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In a 4–6 quart crockpot, add 3 cups of chicken broth, frozen pierogies, browned kielbasa, and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently to combine.
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Cook on high for 3 hours (do not exceed this time to avoid mushy pierogies).
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At the 2.5-hour mark, microwave the cream cheese with about ½ cup of remaining broth until softened and whisk until smooth.
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Gently fold the cream cheese mixture into the crockpot. Sprinkle the combined cheddar and mozzarella over the top.
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Cover and cook on low for an additional 30 minutes.
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Serve warm. Optional: garnish with sliced green onions.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 3 hours 30 minutes | Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
Kcal: 540 kcal (approximate) | Servings: 6 servings
A Cozy Classic: Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa
There’s something undeniably comforting about pierogies—those pillowy dumplings filled with creamy potatoes and cheddar cheese. Add smoky kielbasa, melt-in-your-mouth cheese, and the set-it-and-forget-it magic of a slow cooker, and you have a dinner that checks all the boxes: hearty, budget-friendly, family-approved, and easy to make.
Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a dish that brings generations of Eastern European tradition to modern American kitchens. It’s a no-fuss meal that layers classic flavors in a format that works for busy families, cozy weekend meals, or laid-back gatherings with friends.
The Story Behind Pierogies and Kielbasa
Pierogies are rooted in Central and Eastern European cuisines, particularly Polish and Ukrainian households. Traditionally filled with mashed potatoes, cheese, sauerkraut, or meat, pierogies were once considered peasant food. But over time, they evolved into a beloved staple at holidays, festivals, and family dinners.
Kielbasa, the Polish word for “sausage,” is just as iconic. Typically made with pork or beef and seasoned with garlic, marjoram, and spices, kielbasa is flavorful and smoky—perfectly complementing the soft, creamy texture of pierogies.
Bringing these two elements together in a single crockpot recipe not only simplifies the cooking process but also enhances the flavors through slow simmering. The result is a rich, savory casserole that tastes like it’s been passed down for generations.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
There are countless reasons why this dish is a keeper, but here are a few that really make it shine:
1. Foolproof Convenience
This recipe was made for busy lives. Toss the ingredients into a slow cooker, let it cook for a few hours, and it practically makes itself. No need to hover over a stovetop or dirty up multiple pans.
2. Family-Friendly Flavor
The cheddar-filled pierogies and browned kielbasa offer a mild, savory taste that even picky eaters can enjoy. Plus, the cheese topping and creamy sauce elevate it into comfort food territory that pleases both kids and adults.
3. Budget-Conscious Ingredients
With just a few affordable items—frozen pierogies, kielbasa, broth, cheese, and cream cheese—you can create a meal that feeds a crowd without emptying your wallet. It’s ideal for large families or weekly meal prep.
4. Crowd-Pleaser for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a potluck, planning a game day spread, or just need something warm for a winter night, this casserole fits the bill. It’s warm, cheesy, filling, and universally satisfying.
Tips for Making the Best Crockpot Pierogi Casserole
Even though this is a pretty foolproof recipe, a few tips can take it from good to great:
Brown the Kielbasa First: Searing the kielbasa before adding it to the slow cooker gives it a slightly crispy edge and brings out its deep smoky flavor.
Use Frozen Pierogies: Adding them frozen keeps them from overcooking and getting too soft. Stir gently when incorporating the cream cheese mixture to prevent tearing.
Don’t Overcook: Stick to the 3-hour mark on high heat. Any longer, and your pierogies may become too soft or mushy.
Stir Cream Cheese Separately: Melting the cream cheese with a bit of broth before adding it ensures a smooth sauce without clumps.
Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix in your favorites—sharp cheddar, gouda, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a little spice.
Variations to Try
This casserole is super adaptable. Here are a few ways to make it your own:
Add Vegetables: Want a little green in your dish? Throw in some sautéed onions, spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Just pre-cook them slightly before adding to the slow cooker.
Spice It Up: Love a bit of heat? Add crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or spicy kielbasa to give it a kick.
Go Meatless: Skip the kielbasa and add extra cheese or roasted vegetables to make it vegetarian. Try caramelized onions or roasted broccoli for added depth.
Try Different Pierogies: While cheddar potato pierogies are classic, there are other fun flavors like sauerkraut, onion, or even jalapeño that can add new twists.
Make It a Bake: If you’re short on time and want a quicker bake, layer everything in a casserole dish and cook in the oven at 350°F for about 40 minutes.
Nutritional Highlights
While this isn’t a low-calorie dish, it does provide a decent balance of carbs, protein, and fats—especially with the kielbasa for protein and pierogies for carbs. Here’s a quick snapshot per serving (approximate):
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Calories: 540 kcal
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Protein: 20g
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Carbs: 35g
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Fat: 32g
You can lighten it up by using turkey kielbasa, reduced-fat cream cheese, and cutting down on the cheese toppings. Or lean into it for a full-flavored, indulgent meal that fills you up fast.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With It
Since this casserole is rich and cheesy, you’ll want lighter, fresh sides to balance it out. Here are a few ideas:
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Green Salad with vinaigrette to cut through the richness
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Steamed green beans or broccoli for a veggie boost
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Pickles or sauerkraut for a tangy contrast
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Crusty bread or garlic rolls to soak up that creamy sauce
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Apple cider or light lager if you’re pairing drinks
These accompaniments help complete the meal without overpowering the hearty main dish.
Storing & Reheating Leftovers
This dish makes excellent leftovers. In fact, the flavors often deepen overnight.
To Store:
Let the casserole cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To Reheat:
Microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes, or reheat in a baking dish at 350°F for 15–20 minutes until warmed through.
To Freeze:
You can freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
Why People Keep Coming Back to This Recipe
At its core, Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a nostalgic, stick-to-your-ribs kind of dish. It takes humble ingredients and elevates them through simple techniques and slow cooking. Every bite is creamy, savory, and totally satisfying.
It’s not just a meal—it’s a memory maker. The kind of dish that reminds you of snow days, Sunday dinners, or grandma’s house. It’s practical but flavorful, affordable but indulgent. That’s why it keeps trending on food blogs and recipe sites—it’s a true modern classic.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a comforting, easy, and delicious meal that practically makes itself, look no further than Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa. It combines the soul of old-world European cooking with the ease of modern kitchen tools. Whether you’re making it for the first time or the fiftieth, this dish will never let you down.
Its combination of creamy textures, rich sausage flavor, and cheesy goodness makes it a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to customize, stores well, and feeds a hungry family with minimal effort. Add this recipe to your collection, and it just might become your new favorite comfort food.