Slow Cooker Pierogi and Kielbasa Casserole Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and incredibly easy to make, this Slow Cooker Pierogi and Kielbasa Casserole is just what you need. The creamy, cheesy goodness of Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies combined with savory kielbasa creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Just toss everything into your crockpot and let the flavors meld together while you go about your day. With minimal prep and a delicious result, this casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and some crusty bread for a complete, mouthwatering meal.
Slow Cooker Pierogi and Kielbasa Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
Three boxes of Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies—preferably mini-sized for bite-sized convenience—work best for this casserole. Additionally, you’ll need:
4 cups of chicken broth
8 oz. block of cream cheese
1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
1 pound of sliced kielbasa (or another cooked meat as suggested)
Salt and pepper, adjusted to your taste
Instructions
Place all the ingredients into your crockpot.
Set it to cook on high for 3-4 hours, or on low for 6 hours.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad and some crusty bread.
Notes:
Pierogi Size: Mini-sized pierogies work best for this casserole as they ensure more even cooking and bite-sized convenience. If using larger pierogies, consider cutting them into smaller pieces.
Chicken Broth: For a richer flavor, you can use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt level. If you prefer a slightly thicker casserole, consider using less broth or adding a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before adding it to the crockpot for easier blending and a smoother texture. You can also use flavored cream cheese (e.g., garlic herb) for an extra layer of flavor.
Kielbasa: If you’re looking to reduce the fat content, you can use turkey kielbasa or another lean cooked meat. Also, remember that kielbasa is already seasoned, so be cautious with the amount of salt you add.
Cooking Times: Cooking times may vary depending on your crockpot. For best results, check the casserole toward the end of the cooking time to ensure the pierogies are tender and the cheese is melted.
Stirring: If possible, give the mixture a gentle stir halfway through cooking to ensure even distribution of the ingredients and to prevent the cheese from sticking to the sides of the crockpot.
Garnish Options: For added flavor and texture, consider garnishing with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving. A sprinkle of additional shredded cheddar cheese on top during the last 30 minutes of cooking can add a nice cheesy crust.
Pairing Suggestions: This casserole is rich and hearty, so serving it with a light, fresh salad and crusty bread helps balance the meal. You can also consider adding a side of steamed vegetables for extra nutrition.
Nutrition Information:
YIELDS: 8 | SERVING SIZE: 1
Calories: 592 | Total Fat: ~41g | Saturated Fat: ~15g | Carbohydrates: ~35g | Fiber: ~1.5g | Sugars: ~4g | Protein: ~26g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use different types of pierogies?
Yes, you can use different types of pierogies, such as those filled with potato and onion or other flavors.
However, Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies are recommended for their flavor and texture in this recipe.
Can I substitute the kielbasa with another type of meat?
Absolutely. You can use other cooked meats like sausage, ham, or even chicken.
Ensure the meat is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.
Can I make this recipe with frozen pierogies?
Answer: Yes, you can use frozen pierogies.
There is no need to thaw them before adding them to the crockpot; just increase the cooking time slightly if needed.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the kielbasa and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Consider adding extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for additional flavor and texture.
Can I use low-fat or fat-free cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat or fat-free cream cheese.
The casserole may be slightly less creamy, but it will still be delicious.
What if I don’t have chicken broth?
You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or beef broth.
For a richer flavor, you can also use a combination of broth and a splash of white wine or a bit of sour cream.
How can I thicken the casserole if it’s too watery?
If the casserole is too watery, you can thicken it by stirring in a slurry of cornstarch and water (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Alternatively, you can reduce the amount of broth used.