I made this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa last weekend, and let me tell you—it was a hit! It’s one of those comforting, cheesy, slow-cooked meals that just feels like home.
I love that I could toss everything in my crockpot and let it do the work while I relaxed. The smoky kielbasa and creamy layers make every bite irresistible.
If you’re craving something hearty and hassle-free, this is it!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything I used to bring this cozy dish to life. Try to go with fresh and full-flavored ingredients for the best result.
- 2 (12-ounce) packages of pierogies – refrigerated ones cook a little faster, but frozen ones work great too.
- 1 lb kielbasa, sliced into bite-sized pieces – go for a smoky, high-quality kielbasa for rich flavor.
- 1 cup sour cream – full-fat gives the creamiest texture.
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can of cream of mushroom soup – adds depth and smoothness.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – freshly shredded melts much better than pre-packaged.
- 1 small onion, diced – optional, but sautéing it adds a sweet, savory layer.
- 1 tablespoon butter – for sautéing the onion, if using.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – adds a little zip to the sauce.
- Salt and pepper – season to taste.
- ¼ cup chopped green onions or parsley – for garnish (optional but adds a fresh finish).
Note: This recipe serves about 6 people generously based on the ingredient quantities.
Variations
Want to tweak the recipe a little? Here are some fun swaps and upgrades:
- Dairy-Free Option: Use a plant-based sour cream and dairy-free shredded cheese.
- Add Veggies: Mix in spinach, peas, or sautéed bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Meat-Free Version: Replace kielbasa with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage.
- Spice it Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the sauce mix.
- Different Cheese: Try mozzarella or Colby Jack for a milder flavor.
Love variety? You can add this recipe to your weekly dinner ideas rotation alongside comfort meals like Instant Pot White Chicken Chili.
Cooking Time
Here’s how long it takes from start to finish:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 3–4 hours (on low in the crockpot)
- Total Time: 4 to 4.5 hours
Most of this is hands-off, so you can relax while it cooks!
Equipment You’ll Need
These basic kitchen tools made the process super easy:
- Crockpot (6-quart): For slow cooking and layering everything.
- Sharp knife and cutting board: To slice kielbasa and dice onions.
- Mixing bowl: To stir together the creamy sauce.
- Measuring cups and spoons: So the ratios are just right.
- Large spoon or tongs: Helps with layering the ingredients easily.
How to Make Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa?
This recipe is all about simple steps that come together for an amazing result. Let me walk you through it.
Prep the Kielbasa and Onion
Start by slicing your kielbasa into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using onion (which I highly recommend), sauté it in a bit of butter for about 5 minutes until it’s soft and lightly golden. This brings out its sweetness and makes the flavor richer in the final dish.
Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until smooth, then fold in your shredded cheddar cheese. This sauce is what makes the casserole so creamy and comforting.
Layer the Ingredients
In your crockpot, add a layer of pierogies, then a layer of sliced kielbasa, followed by some sautéed onions and a good spoonful of the creamy sauce. Keep layering like this until you’ve used everything. Finish with a generous sprinkle of cheese on top.
Let It Cook
Cover the crockpot and set it on low. Let it cook for 3 to 4 hours. The pierogies will soak in all that flavor while the cheese melts into gooey perfection. By the end, everything will be piping hot, tender, and delicious.
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
After making this a few times, here are my personal tips for getting the best results:
- Use refrigerated pierogies if you’re short on time—they cook a bit faster than frozen ones.
- I like to brown the kielbasa briefly in a skillet for added texture and flavor before layering.
- Don’t skip the cheese on top—it creates a deliciously melty crust.
- If the sauce seems thick after cooking, stir in a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.
- For easier cleanup, spray the crockpot with nonstick spray before layering everything.
How to Serve Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa?
Serving this dish is just as fun as making it. Here’s how I like to plate it:
- Scoop it straight from the crockpot into bowls for a cozy, rustic feel.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Add a side salad with tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Serve it with crusty bread to soak up any extra creamy sauce.
Planning a full spread? This goes great with crockpot barbecue ribs for the ultimate comfort-food combo.
Nutritional Information
This recipe is rich and satisfying. Here’s a rough breakdown per serving:
- Calories: Around 480
- Protein: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fat: 28g
Make Ahead and Storage
Here’s how to keep leftovers fresh or prep ahead of time.
- Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay good for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual portions in sealed containers for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm up in the microwave or oven. Add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This comforting dish checks all the boxes. Here’s why I keep coming back to it:
- Super Easy: The crockpot does all the hard work for you—just layer and go.
- Family Favorite: It’s hearty, creamy, and appeals to both kids and adults.
- Customizable: You can switch up the meats, cheeses, or add veggies easily.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep or potlucks.
- Incredibly Comforting: Warm, cheesy, and full of smoky flavor—what’s not to love?
Incredibly Comforting: Warm, cheesy, and full of smoky flavor—what’s not to love? It’s the kind of meal that pairs perfectly with other dinner ideas.
Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Start by slicing your kielbasa into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using onion (which I highly recommend), sauté it in a bit of butter for about 5 minutes until it’s soft and lightly golden. This brings out its sweetness and makes the flavor richer in the final dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until smooth, then fold in your shredded cheddar cheese. This sauce is what makes the casserole so creamy and comforting.
- In your crockpot, add a layer of pierogies, then a layer of sliced kielbasa, followed by some sautéed onions and a good spoonful of the creamy sauce. Keep layering like this until you’ve used everything. Finish with a generous sprinkle of cheese on top.
- Cover the crockpot and set it on low. Let it cook for 3 to 4 hours. The pierogies will soak in all that flavor while the cheese melts into gooey perfection. By the end, everything will be piping hot, tender, and delicious.
Notes
- Use refrigerated pierogies if you’re short on time—they cook a bit faster than frozen ones.
- I like to brown the kielbasa briefly in a skillet for added texture and flavor before layering.
- Don’t skip the cheese on top—it creates a deliciously melty crust.
- If the sauce seems thick after cooking, stir in a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.
- For easier cleanup, spray the crockpot with nonstick spray before layering everything.
