Save Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa. This dish transforms simple, frozen ingredients into a rich and hearty family dinner that requires minimal effort. Featuring pillowy potato and cheese pierogi, savory smoked sausage, and a velvety cheese sauce, it is designed to be a crowd-pleaser that satisfies even the pickiest eaters.
Save The beauty of this slow cooker recipe is the way the smoky flavors of the kielbasa infuse into the creamy mushroom sauce and tender pierogi. It is a perfect choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 (16 oz) packages frozen potato and cheese pierogi
- 1 lb (450 g) kielbasa, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (10.5 oz/300 g) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream
- ½ cup (120 ml) milk
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Lightly grease the insert of a 6-quart slow cooker to prevent sticking.
- Step 2
- Layer half of the frozen pierogi evenly on the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Step 3
- Top the pierogi with half of the sliced kielbasa and half of the thinly sliced onions.
- Step 4
- Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese over the layers.
- Step 5
- Repeat the layers with the remaining frozen pierogi, kielbasa, and onions, followed by another cup of cheese.
- Step 6
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth.
- Step 7
- Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker.
- Step 8
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours, or until the pierogi are tender and the sauce is hot and bubbly.
- Step 9
- Garnish the casserole with chopped fresh chives or parsley before serving, if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For an extra layer of flavor, consider sautéing the sliced onions in a skillet with a little butter until they are soft and translucent before adding them to the slow cooker layers. This helps release their natural sweetness.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is highly adaptable. You can use turkey kielbasa for a lighter version of the dish or swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken if you prefer. For a different flavor profile, try using different varieties of frozen pierogi, such as those filled with sauerkraut or cheese and jalapeño.
Serviervorschläge
To round out this hearty meal, serve the casserole with a crisp green salad or a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. The freshness of the vegetables provides a nice contrast to the rich, cheesy sauce.
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Whether it's a chilly evening or just a day when you need a simple win in the kitchen, this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa is sure to satisfy. Dish out generous portions of this bubbly, cheesy casserole and enjoy a meal that tastes like it took hours of preparation, with only 15 minutes of actual work.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use fresh pierogi instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh pierogi work well in this casserole. Keep the cooking time the same, as the slow cooker will gently heat them through without overcooking.
- → What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
Cream of chicken soup is an excellent substitute. You can also make a simple white sauce with butter, flour, and broth if you prefer a homemade option.
- → How do I prevent the pierogi from getting mushy?
Avoid overcooking by sticking to the 4-hour timeframe on low heat. The layering method and creamy sauce protect the pierogi from drying out or becoming too soft.
- → Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
You can assemble all the layers the night before and refrigerate the slow cooker insert. In the morning, place it in the base and cook as directed, adding about 30 minutes to the cooking time.
- → What sides pair well with this casserole?
A crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed green beans complement the richness of the casserole beautifully. Garlic bread or dinner rolls also make great accompaniments.
- → Can I use turkey or chicken kielbasa?
Absolutely. Turkey or chicken kielbasa are lighter alternatives that work just as well. Beef kielbasa is another delicious option if you prefer a different flavor profile.