This hearty Crockpot Pierogi Casserole is filled with cheesy pierogies and tasty kielbasa, all magically cooked together in one pot. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
What I love most? Just throw everything in the crockpot and let it do the work! When dinner time hits, the smell will make everyone gather around the table in no time! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pierogies: Frozen cheese pierogies are the star ingredient. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try making homemade ones! But if you’re short on time, the store-bought ones work perfectly here.
Kielbasa: This sausage adds a nice smoky flavor. If you want a lighter option, turkey kielbasa is a great substitute. You can also use any other sausage you love, like bratwurst or chicken sausage.
Onion and Bell Pepper: These veggies give the dish essential flavor. If you’re not a fan of either, try using leeks or mushrooms instead. They add nice textures, too!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my go-to for that bold flavor. If you’re looking for a creamier taste, feel free to mix in some mozzarella. You can also use a dairy-free cheese for a healthier option.
Sour Cream and Soup: I love the tanginess from the sour cream. If you’re looking for a lighter version, Greek yogurt works well. For the soup, any cream soup can be used if you prefer a different flavor, like cream of celery!
How Do I Layer and Cook This Casserole Successfully?
Layering the ingredients is key for the best outcome. Start with a base of frozen pierogies, then top with the kielbasa and veggies. Pour some of the sauce over them, followed by cheese. This method prevents the pierogies from getting too mushy and ensures even cooking.
- Always spray the crockpot to avoid sticking.
- Make sure to check for doneness after cooking; pierogies should be soft and heated through.
- Feel free to mix up the layers or add more vegetables if you want a little extra.
Your crockpot does the heavy lifting here, so sit back and relax while it works its magic! Perfect for busy days or when you want a cozy meal without much fuss.
Easy Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (about 12 oz) frozen cheese pierogies
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 10 minutes of prep time, and then you can set it to cook for 3-4 hours on low or 1.5-2 hours on high in your crockpot. It’s perfect for when you’ve got a busy day ahead!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Kielbasa and Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced kielbasa. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until it’s lightly browned. Then, add the thinly sliced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Once done, take it off the heat and set aside.
2. Mixing the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, stir together the sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, and milk until everything is nicely blended. Don’t forget to season it with a little salt and pepper according to your taste!
3. Layering in the Crockpot:
Spray the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray for easy cleanup. Now, it’s time to layer! Start, by placing half of the frozen cheese pierogies in the bottom of the crockpot. Next, spread half of the cooked kielbasa, onions, and peppers over the top of the pierogies. Then, pour half of the sour cream mixture over everything. Finally, sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
4. Completing the Layers:
Repeat the layering process one more time: add another layer of pierogies, followed by the remaining kielbasa mixture, the sour cream mixture, and top it off with the rest of the cheese.
5. Cooking the Casserole:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 3-4 hours, or on high for 1.5-2 hours. It’s done when the pierogies are heated through and tender. The aroma will surely fill your kitchen!
6. Serving Up Your Casserole:
Once ready, you can garnish your casserole with some chopped fresh parsley for that beautiful touch! Serve it warm and enjoy the comforting flavors of your delicious Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa!
This recipe is super simple and allows the rich flavors to meld together beautifully, making for a cozy gathering meal or a family dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Fresh Pierogies Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh pierogies! Just shorten the cooking time to about 2-3 hours on low or 1 hour on high since they will heat through more quickly than frozen ones.
What Can I Substitute for Kielbasa?
If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey kielbasa or any sausage like bratwurst or smoked sausage works great! For a vegetarian option, try using sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based sausage.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare all the layers and assemble the casserole in the crockpot the night before. Just refrigerate it overnight and then cook it in the morning. You might need to add a bit of extra cooking time if it goes in cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Feel free to tweak this FAQ to suit your audience’s needs!
