Name: Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-486188H48M46S
Total time: PT-486188H48M46S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 (16-ounce) packages frozen cheddar pierogies; 1 (14-ounce) package kielbasa, sliced into rounds; 3 cups chicken broth; 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional); ¼ cup chopped green onions (for garnish)

There is nothing better than a warm, hearty casserole that practically cooks itself. This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together the rich, cheesy goodness of pierogies with the smoky, savory flavor of kielbasa. Everything is coated in a creamy, flavorful sauce that melds together perfectly in the slow cooker. It is the kind of dish that fills your home with an irresistible aroma and makes you excited for dinner.

What makes this dish special is how easy it is to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that tastes like it took hours of effort. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing you to go about your day without standing over a stove. Whether you are making this for a cozy family dinner, a gathering with friends, or even meal prep for the week, this recipe will not disappoint.

I first discovered pierogi casseroles when I was looking for ways to elevate frozen pierogies into a full meal. While pierogies are delicious on their own, I wanted something that felt more substantial. Adding kielbasa was a game-changer. The smoky sausage perfectly complements the cheesy, potato-filled pierogies, and when combined with a rich, creamy sauce, it becomes pure magic. Over the years, I have experimented with different variations, and this version remains my favorite. It is simple, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Recipe

There are so many reasons why this crockpot pierogi casserole deserves a spot in your meal rotation. It is effortless, satisfying, and packed with flavor.

Easy to Make – This is a true dump-and-go recipe. Simply layer the ingredients in the crockpot, turn it on, and let it do the work. No complicated steps or fancy techniques required.
Minimal Ingredients – You only need a handful of simple, affordable ingredients that you can find at any grocery store. Most of them are pantry staples.
Ultimate Comfort Food – The combination of cheesy pierogies, smoky kielbasa, and creamy sauce makes this dish incredibly rich and satisfying. It is the perfect meal for chilly nights or when you need something comforting.
Great for Meal Prep – Leftovers store well and reheat beautifully, making this a great make-ahead meal. You can enjoy it throughout the week without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Family-Friendly – This is a dish that appeals to all ages. Kids love the cheesy pierogies, and adults appreciate the depth of flavor from the kielbasa. Even picky eaters find this meal irresistible.
Customizable – You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences. Whether you want to add vegetables, change up the cheese, or make it gluten-free, there are endless ways to tweak it to your liking.

Health Benefits

While this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole is undeniably indulgent, it does offer some nutritional benefits, especially when you make a few smart substitutions.

Good Source of Protein – Kielbasa provides a significant amount of protein, which helps keep you full and satisfied. If you opt for turkey or chicken kielbasa, you can reduce the fat content while still enjoying the rich flavor.
Calcium-Rich – The cheese and cream cheese in this dish provide a good amount of calcium, which is essential for bone health.
Balanced Carbs and Fats – Pierogies contain a mix of carbohydrates from the dough and potatoes, giving you energy while keeping the dish hearty. The fats from the cheese and kielbasa contribute to satiety, ensuring that a small serving is filling.
Option to Add Vegetables – If you want to boost the nutritional profile, you can easily add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. This will increase the fiber and vitamin content without compromising the dish’s flavor.
Gluten-Free and Low-Sodium Options – By using gluten-free pierogies and reducing the amount of added salt, you can make this dish fit specific dietary needs without sacrificing taste.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total Time: 4-6 hours (depending on your slow cooker setting)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4-6 hours (slow cooker)
Servings: 6-8

Nutritional Information per Serving:

Calories: ~450
Protein: ~18g
Carbohydrates: ~35g
Fat: ~25g
Fiber: ~3g
Calcium: ~15% DV

Ingredients List

2 (16-ounce) packages frozen cheddar pierogies
1 (14-ounce) package kielbasa, sliced into rounds (chicken or turkey kielbasa for a lighter option)
3 cups chicken broth
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt (adjust based on preference)
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
¼ cup chopped green onions (for garnish, optional)

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Crockpot
- Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Layer the Ingredients
- Pour 3 cups of chicken broth into the slow cooker.
- Arrange the frozen pierogies in a single layer at the bottom.
- Evenly distribute the sliced kielbasa over the pierogies.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Season the Dish
- Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and smoked paprika over the layers.
Slow Cook
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
- About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, warm the cream cheese in a microwave-safe bowl for 20-30 seconds or on the stovetop with a little chicken broth until smooth.
- Stir the mixture well until it becomes a creamy consistency.
Combine Everything
- Pour the cream cheese mixture into the crockpot and gently stir to coat the pierogies and kielbasa.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Final Cook Time
- Cover and cook on low for an additional 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and the sauce is thick and creamy.
Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle chopped green onions over the dish for a fresh flavor boost.
- Serve hot and enjoy.

How to Serve

As a Main Dish – This casserole is filling enough to serve on its own. Simply scoop portions onto plates and enjoy.
With a Side Salad – A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the dish.
With Garlic Bread – Warm, buttery garlic bread makes a perfect accompaniment.
With Roasted Vegetables – Roasted Brussels sprouts, broccoli, or bell peppers pair well with the creamy casserole.

Pairing Suggestions

Beverage Pairings – Sparkling water with lemon, iced tea, or a refreshing fruit juice like apple or cranberry complements the dish.
Side Dish Options – Steamed green beans, sautéed spinach, or mashed sweet potatoes make great side choices.
Dipping Sauces – Sour cream, hot sauce, or a drizzle of honey mustard can add an extra layer of flavor.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing – Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating – Warm in a saucepan over low heat or microwave with a splash of broth to prevent drying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a simple and straightforward dish, there are a few mistakes that can affect the final result. Being aware of these pitfalls will help you achieve a perfectly creamy, cheesy, and flavorful casserole every time.

One of the most common mistakes is not using enough liquid. Since frozen pierogies absorb moisture as they cook, adding enough chicken broth ensures they stay soft and don’t dry out. If you skimp on the broth, the casserole may turn out too thick or dry. On the other hand, adding too much liquid can make it overly soupy, so sticking to the recommended amount is key.

Another mistake is not softening the cream cheese properly before adding it to the crockpot. If you add cold cream cheese directly, it won’t blend smoothly, leading to lumps in the sauce instead of a creamy consistency. To avoid this, always warm the cream cheese separately with a little broth before mixing it in.

Overcooking the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole is another issue that can affect texture. While slow cookers are great for set-it-and-forget-it meals, leaving this dish on high heat for too long can cause the pierogies to become mushy. Cooking on low for six hours or high for three to four hours is ideal to maintain the perfect balance between soft and structured pierogies.

A mistake some people make is not stirring the dish before the final cooking phase. Since the ingredients cook in layers, stirring after adding the cream cheese mixture ensures that everything is evenly coated in sauce and the flavors meld together. Skipping this step may lead to uneven flavor distribution.

Finally, not seasoning the dish properly can result in a bland casserole. While kielbasa and cheese add natural saltiness, it’s important to taste and adjust seasonings before serving. A pinch of smoked paprika, black pepper, or even a little garlic powder can enhance the overall depth of flavor.

Pro Tips

To get the most out of your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa, keep these expert tips in mind.

One of the best ways to elevate the dish is to sear the kielbasa before adding it to the crockpot. While this step is optional, browning the sausage in a skillet for a few minutes caramelizes the edges and deepens the flavor. It also adds a slight crispiness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.

If you want an even creamier and richer texture, consider using half-and-half or heavy cream instead of some of the chicken broth when melting the cream cheese. This small change makes the sauce extra luscious and indulgent.

For an added layer of flavor, use smoked cheese instead of regular cheddar. Smoked gouda or smoked cheddar bring a subtle, smoky depth that complements the kielbasa perfectly. You can also try a mix of cheeses to create a more complex flavor profile.

If you love a little crunch in your casserole, top the dish with buttered breadcrumbs before serving. Simply mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle them over the casserole, then broil for a few minutes after slow cooking. This adds a golden, crispy topping that makes the dish even more satisfying.

Another tip is to let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and prevents it from being too runny when scooping. It also helps distribute flavors more evenly.

Finally, for a balanced meal, consider adding vegetables to the crockpot. Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or even peas work well in this dish, adding color, nutrients, and a slight contrast to the richness of the cheese sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen?
Yes, but fresh pierogies cook faster than frozen ones. If using fresh pierogies, reduce the cooking time by about an hour on low to avoid overcooking them.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before, store them in the refrigerator, and then start cooking in the morning. Leftovers also reheat well, making this a great meal prep option.

What can I use instead of kielbasa?
If you don’t have kielbasa, you can substitute smoked turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even cooked shredded chicken. For a vegetarian version, use plant-based sausage.

How do I make this dish lighter?
To make a lighter version, use turkey kielbasa instead of pork, replace regular cream cheese with reduced-fat cream cheese, and use low-fat cheddar cheese. You can also increase the amount of vegetables to balance the dish.

Can I bake this casserole instead of using a slow cooker?
Yes! To bake, preheat your oven to 375°F. Layer the ingredients in a greased casserole dish, cover with foil, and bake for 35-40 minutes. Uncover, stir in the cream cheese mixture, top with cheese, and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until bubbly.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a simple, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing meal that brings together rich flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing it for meal prep, this dish delivers maximum comfort with every bite. The combination of cheesy pierogies, smoky kielbasa, and a creamy sauce is nothing short of irresistible.

What makes this recipe so great is its flexibility. You can tweak the ingredients to match your preferences, add extra seasonings for more flavor, or toss in vegetables for a balanced meal. With just a few minutes of prep time, the slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with a delicious, hassle-free dinner.

Now it’s your turn to try this recipe! If you make this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa, let me know how it turns out. I’d love to hear your feedback in the comments. Did you add any personal touches? Did your family love it as much as mine does? Share your experience, and if you take a picture, tag me on social media—I love seeing your creations!

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it for later and share it with friends who love easy, comforting meals. Looking for more slow cooker recipes? Check out my other crockpot favorites for more delicious and effortless meal ideas. Happy cooking!