There’s something undeniably comforting about a dish that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, and my Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is just that. Picture this: the kitchen fills with the rich aroma of smoky kielbasa mingling with melted cheese and tender pierogies, transporting you to cozy family gatherings where laughter and good food reign.

This hearty casserole, layered with creamy textures and robust flavors, is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something special without the fuss of complex preparation. With just a few simple ingredients, you can easily adapt the recipe to fit your pantry, ensuring every bite is delightful.

So, whether you’re winding down from a long day or planning a casual weekend feast, this slow-cooked dish is your ticket to a satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that promises to become a staple in your home!

Why is this Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa a Must-Try?

Comforting with every bite, this casserole envelops you in rich flavors and creamy textures, making it the ultimate comfort food. Crockpot magic means you can set it and forget it, freeing up your time for other evening activities. Versatile ingredients allow for endless customization—swap out kielbasa for sausage or add your favorite veggies! Crowd-pleaser and family-friendly, it’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and cozy gatherings. Easy clean-up makes it a winner, as everything cooks in one pot!

Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Ingredients

For the Casserole

Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies – the backbone of this dish, providing hearty texture; feel free to use any brand of frozen pierogies for variety.
Chicken Broth (4 cups) – imparts wonderful flavor and moisture; opt for low-sodium broth if you’re watching your sodium intake.
Cream Cheese (8-ounce block) – melts into a luscious sauce; Neufchâtel can be used for a lighter, lower-fat option.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup) – elevates the cheesy goodness; adding more cheese can give it an extra rich flavor.
Kielbasa (1 pound, sliced) – lends a smoky taste and protein; smoked sausage or even a cheddar-filled kielbasa can amp up the flavor.
Salt and Pepper – enhances taste; don’t hesitate to add garlic powder or onion powder for an extra kick.

For Garnish

Sliced Green Onions – adds a fresh pop of color and flavor; this is optional but highly recommended for presentation.

This Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa stands as a delicious testament to comfort food—a simple, satisfying dish your family will adore!

How to Make Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Combine Ingredients: In a 4-6 quart crockpot, mix together three cups of chicken broth, the frozen pierogies, sliced kielbasa, and shredded cheddar cheese until everything is evenly coated.
Cook Casserole: Set your crockpot to cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6 hours. The casserole should be thoroughly heated and the flavors well melded by the end of this time.
Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: About 30 minutes before the casserole is done, take the remaining chicken broth and cream cheese, warming them together. Stir until smooth and creamy, creating a delightful sauce.
Final Assembly: Pour your creamy mixture into the crockpot and gently fold it with the other ingredients. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top, cover, and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
Serve: Delight in the warmth of your casserole while it’s hot! Consider garnishing with sliced green onions for a burst of freshness.

Optional: Top with crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa?

Elevate your meal experience with complementary side dishes that bring out the warmth and nostalgia of this comforting casserole.

Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with crunchy greens and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole beautifully. It’s an essential side that adds both flavor and nutrition.
Steamed Broccoli: Tender, vibrant broccoli offers a healthy contrast to the creamy dish. The bright color and slight bitterness make for a perfect pairing.
Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is an all-time favorite that invites you to scoop up every morsel. It also adds an inviting aroma to your mealtime.
Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can cut through the richness of the casserole with its refreshing crunch. The combination of textures creates a delightful dining experience.
Homemade Applesauce: The sweetness of applesauce complements the savory elements perfectly. It adds a nostalgic touch that enhances the comfort food vibe.
Red Wine: A glass of fruity red wine brings warmth and depth to your dinner table, enhancing every bite of the casserole while making your meal feel extra special.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with classic chocolate chip cookies. Their warm, gooey texture serves as the perfect finale to this hearty dish.

Each of these pairings beautifully complements the Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa, creating a wholesome meal that is sure to satisfy!

Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Variations

Embrace the joy of personalization with these delightful twists that can make your casserole even more special!

Vegetable Boost: Add chopped spinach or sautéed onions for added nutrition and texture, brightening each bite with freshness.
Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, giving a delightful heat that will warm your soul.
Cheddar & Mozzarella Fusion: Use a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella to create a wonderfully stretchy, melty experience that’s irresistible!
Sausage Swap: For a different flavor profile, swap the kielbasa for ground sausage or turkey sausage to lighten things up.
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle in some fresh or dried herbs like thyme or parsley for an aromatic twist that enhances the dish’s savory notes.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use almond or oat cream cheese and a dairy-free cheese blend for a lactose-free option that still delivers on taste.
Loaded Toppings: Top with crispy bacon bits for crunch and flavor, providing an irresistible finish to your comforting casserole.
Classic Twist: Replace chicken broth with a rich beef broth for a deeper flavor, offering an entirely different dimension to your casserole experience.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing this Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa ahead of time is a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance by combining the frozen pierogies, sliced kielbasa, and shredded cheddar cheese in your crockpot. Keep it covered and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. To maintain quality, avoid adding the cream cheese mixture until just before serving; this ensures it stays creamy and smooth. When it’s time to enjoy your casserole, simply warm the chicken broth and cream cheese, mix it in, sprinkle the remaining cheddar on top, and cook as directed. You’ll have a delightful, home-cooked meal ready with minimal fuss!

How to Store and Freeze Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Freezer: This casserole freezes beautifully! Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat from frozen, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes or until warmed through. Stir occasionally for even heating.
Make-Ahead: Assemble the Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa the night before and refrigerate. Cook it fresh the next day for a hassle-free dinner!

Expert Tips for Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Cheese Control: Ensure cream cheese is warmed slowly to avoid a separated sauce. Whisk well before adding to the casserole for a smooth texture.
Flavor Boosting: Brown the kielbasa in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot. This step enhances the smoky flavor and adds depth to your dish.
Perfect Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent pierogies from becoming mushy. Adjust based on your crockpot’s heat settings, aiming for fork-tender results.
Veggie Additions: Don’t hesitate to incorporate veggies like onions, spinach, or peppers. They not only add nutrients but also bring freshness to your Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa.
Storing Leftovers: Leftover casserole can be stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for two months. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving!

Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe FAQs

What type of pierogies should I use?
Absolutely! While Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies work perfectly, feel free to swap in any frozen pierogies you prefer, like potato or mushroom varieties. Just ensure they are fully frozen before adding them to the crockpot.

How should I store leftover Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa?
Great question! Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, indeed! This casserole freezes wonderfully. After it has cooled completely, transfer servings into freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring to label them. It will stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes until hot.

What should I do if my cream cheese mixture is lumpy?
Not to worry! If your cream cheese ends up lumpy, try taking it out of the crockpot and whisking it in a bowl with a bit of warm broth until smooth. This can often help restore the creamy texture. Also, make sure to slowly warm the cream cheese next time before adding it to avoid lumps altogether.

Is this casserole suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This delicious Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa can be modified for various dietary preferences. For a lower-fat option, use Neufchâtel cheese instead of cream cheese and opt for low-sodium chicken broth. If you’re vegetarian, you can skip the kielbasa entirely and load up on veggies or use meat substitutes. Always check ingredient labels for allergens and make smart swaps based on your dietary needs!

How can I enhance the flavor of my casserole?
I recommend browning the kielbasa before adding it to the crockpot—this extra step brings a deeper, smokier flavor to your Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa. Additionally, consider adding spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or even a sprinkle of paprika for a flavor lift!