There's nothing quite like the comfort of a warm, cheesy casserole to soothe the soul after a long day. This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the ultimate fusion of hearty flavors, featuring tender pierogies, smoky kielbasa, and a creamy cheese sauce that ties everything together.

I first discovered this gem of a recipe during a holiday potluck, where it quickly became the star of the table. Now, it's a regular in our meal rotation, loved for its simplicity, rich flavors, and how easily it feeds a crowd with minimal effort. Let’s dive into why this dish belongs in your repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa

Get ready to fall head over heels for this incredibly satisfying crockpot casserole. Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting friends for a casual dinner, this dish checks all the boxes.

First off, it's effortless to prepare. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, letting you toss in the ingredients, set it, and forget it. No need to hover over the stove – perfect for multitasking on busy days.

The combination of pillowy pierogies and savory kielbasa is unbeatable. The pierogies soak up all the flavors of the sauce, while the kielbasa adds a smoky depth that takes this dish to the next level.

It's a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving kids or adults, everyone loves the comforting, cheesy goodness of this casserole. Plus, it's easy to double the recipe for larger gatherings!

And let’s not forget how budget-friendly it is. With simple, readily available ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish without breaking the bank.

Ready to get started? Let’s talk ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that come together in perfect harmony.

Pierogies: You’ll need a bag of frozen pierogies for this recipe. I recommend classic potato and cheese pierogies for the ultimate comfort food experience, but you can experiment with other flavors like sauerkraut or mushroom if you’re feeling adventurous.
Kielbasa: The smoky, savory star of this dish! Choose your favorite smoked kielbasa and slice it into bite-sized rounds. Turkey or chicken kielbasa works well if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This creates the creamy base of the casserole. You can substitute with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup if you prefer.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar cheese adds a rich, tangy flavor that ties everything together. For an extra creamy casserole, feel free to mix in some mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese.
Sour Cream: This adds a slight tang and creaminess to the sauce. Greek yogurt can work as a substitute for a lighter option.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics enhance the overall flavor, giving the casserole a homemade, comforting taste.

Lastly, make sure you have a 6-quart crockpot or larger for this recipe. It’s the perfect size to fit all the delicious layers.

How To Make This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa

Creating this comforting dish is as easy as layering ingredients and letting your crockpot do the rest. Here's how:

Start by prepping your kielbasa and aromatics. Slice the kielbasa into bite-sized pieces and dice your onion. Mince a clove of garlic for an extra punch of flavor.

In your slow cooker, add a thin layer of cream of chicken soup to prevent sticking. Then, arrange half of your frozen pierogies in an even layer.

Top the pierogies with half the kielbasa, followed by a sprinkle of diced onion and garlic. Pour half of the cream of chicken soup over the top, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle with a generous handful of shredded cheddar cheese.

Repeat the layering process with the remaining pierogies, kielbasa, onion, garlic, soup, and cheese.

Finish by spreading sour cream over the top layer, creating a creamy blanket for your casserole. Sprinkle with a final layer of cheddar cheese.

Set your crockpot to low heat and let it cook for 4-5 hours, or on high heat for 2-3 hours. The pierogies will become tender, and the cheese will melt into gooey perfection.

Once the casserole is bubbling and golden on top, it’s ready to serve. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color if desired.

Storage Options

This casserole is perfect for leftovers and stores beautifully. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerator: Store the casserole in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freezer: This dish can be frozen before or after cooking. If freezing before, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe container, skip the crockpot step, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Add a splash of broth or cream to keep the casserole moist.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some ways to make it your own:

Vegetarian Version: Skip the kielbasa and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies like broccoli and bell peppers for a hearty meat-free option.
Spicy Twist: Use spicy kielbasa and add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.
Different Pierogies: Try experimenting with different pierogi fillings, like spinach and feta or potato and onion, to change up the flavors.
Creamier Casserole: Mix cream cheese into the sauce for an ultra-rich texture, or swap sour cream for heavy cream.
Lighter Option: Use turkey kielbasa, low-fat cheese, and Greek yogurt for a lighter version that still tastes indulgent.

No matter how you customize it, this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Gather your ingredients, set your crockpot, and get ready to enjoy some serious comfort food magic!