There’s something so comforting about coming home to the warm, savory aroma of a crockpot meal, isn’t there? It’s like a hug in a bowl! One of my absolute favorites is this crockpot pierogi casserole with kielbasa. It’s an easy, hearty dish that makes the busy days feel a little less hectic. I remember the first time I made it; my family gathered around the table, and I could see the smiles spreading as they took their first bites. The combination of tender pierogi and smoky kielbasa is just magical. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less mess for me! Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your home, too!
Ingredients List
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making this delicious crockpot pierogi casserole with kielbasa. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 package frozen pierogi (16 oz) – I love using potato and cheese pierogi, but feel free to pick your favorite!
- 1 pound kielbasa, sliced – The smoky flavor of kielbasa really brings this dish to life.
- 1 onion, diced – This adds a wonderful sweetness as it cooks down.
- 2 cups shredded cheese – Cheddar works beautifully, but you can mix in other cheeses like mozzarella for fun.
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz) – It creates a creamy base that ties everything together.
- 1 cup sour cream – This adds richness and tanginess to the dish.
- 1 cup chicken broth – Use low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake; it helps keep everything moist.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it really enhances the flavors!
Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go, and you’ll be all set for a stress-free cooking experience!
How to Prepare Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa
Making this crockpot pierogi casserole with kielbasa is super simple and incredibly satisfying! Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you at the end of the day.
Layering the Ingredients
The key to this dish is how you layer the ingredients. Start by placing the frozen pierogi in an even layer at the bottom of your crockpot. This helps them cook evenly. Then, add the sliced kielbasa and diced onion on top of the pierogi. The onions will soften and sweeten as they cook, which is just heavenly! Remember, don’t mix the layers just yet; we want those flavors to meld throughout the cooking process.
Mixing the Sauce
Now, let’s get to the creamy goodness! In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. You’ll want to whisk it until it’s completely smooth—this will help prevent any clumps in your casserole. If you notice any chunks, just keep mixing! Once it’s all blended, pour it evenly over the layered pierogi and kielbasa. This step is essential for creating that delicious, comforting sauce that ties everything together.
Cooking Time and Temperature
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. If you’re unsure when it’s done, just peek in there! The dish is ready when the pierogi are tender and the kielbasa is heated through. A gentle stir before serving will help combine all those flavors beautifully. You’ll be amazed at how easy and comforting this meal is!
Nutritional Information
Before diving into this deliciousness, it’s good to know that nutritional values can vary based on the ingredients and brands you choose. Here’s a typical breakdown for one serving of my crockpot pierogi casserole with kielbasa:
- Calories: Approximately 450
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sodium: 800mg
Keep in mind that these are just estimates. Feel free to adjust ingredients based on your dietary needs. Enjoying this dish is all about savoring those cozy flavors!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a one-pot meal that saves you time on cleanup—yay!
- Perfect for busy days when you want something hearty without the hassle.
- Rich, creamy flavors that make every bite feel like a warm hug.
- Easy to customize with your favorite veggies or cheeses.
- Great for feeding a crowd or having leftovers for the week.
- It brings everyone together around the table, creating cozy family moments.
Tips for Success
To make your crockpot pierogi casserole with kielbasa even better, here are some of my favorite tips! First off, feel free to swap out the kielbasa for other proteins like smoked sausage or even diced chicken if you’re in the mood for something different. If you want to sneak in some veggies, try adding bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms—just toss them in with the onions for a pop of color and nutrition!
Also, if you like a bit of crunch, you can broil the casserole for a few minutes after cooking to give it a nice golden topping. And don’t forget to taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed; it makes a world of difference. Trust me, these little tweaks will elevate your dish and impress your family and friends!
Variations on Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa
The beauty of this crockpot pierogi casserole with kielbasa is that it’s super flexible! If you’re feeling adventurous, why not switch up the protein? Instead of kielbasa, you could use smoked sausage for a similar flavor or even some diced chicken for a lighter option. If you want to pack in more veggies, try adding sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or even some fresh spinach; they’ll add color and nutrients while still keeping it cozy.
Cheese lovers, rejoice! You can mix and match your cheeses—think gouda, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, use whole wheat pierogi or experiment with gluten-free alternatives. The possibilities are endless, and each variation brings a new twist to this comforting dish. Get creative, and make it your own!
Serving Suggestions
To round out your meal, consider serving your crockpot pierogi casserole with kielbasa alongside a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette. It adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the casserole. For a heartier touch, some steamed broccoli or roasted Brussels sprouts would be fantastic. And let’s not forget about drinks! A crisp, cold glass of lemonade or a light lager pairs beautifully with this comforting dish. Enjoy the flavors and let them come together for a delightful dining experience!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers from your crockpot pierogi casserole with kielbasa is super easy! Just let the casserole cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to save some for later, you can also freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container and it should be good for up to 2 months.
When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, you have a couple of options for reheating. For the best flavor and texture, I recommend popping it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it’s heated through, about 20-25 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be sure to cover it to keep moisture in. Just remember to stir halfway through to ensure even heating. Enjoy every last bite!
Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa: 7 Easy Steps!
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting crockpot dish featuring pierogi and kielbasa, perfect for busy days.
Ingredients
- 1 package frozen pierogi (16 oz)
- 1 pound kielbasa, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Layer the frozen pierogi in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Add the sliced kielbasa and diced onion on top of the pierogi.
- In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and chicken broth until smooth.
- Pour the mixture over the pierogi and kielbasa.
- Top with shredded cheese, and season with salt and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Stir gently before serving to combine layers.
Notes
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- If you prefer a crunch, broil the dish for a few minutes after cooking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: Polish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: crockpot pierogi casserole, kielbasa recipe, easy pierogi dish
