Description
This Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for an easy weeknight dinner. Featuring Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies simmered with sliced kielbasa in a savory chicken broth, and topped with a luscious cream cheese and cheddar sauce, this slow-cooked casserole melds rich flavors and creamy textures, making it a satisfying crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Scale
For the casserole:
- 3 packages Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies
- 1 lb kielbasa, sliced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the cheese sauce:
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Combine main ingredients: In a 4-6 quart crockpot, add frozen Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies, sliced kielbasa, 3 cups of chicken broth, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently to distribute ingredients evenly, then season with salt and pepper to taste to create the casserole base.
- Cook the casserole: Set the crockpot on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6 hours. This slow cooking allows the pierogies and kielbasa to absorb the flavorful broth and cheese, producing a rich and hearty casserole. Cooking on low is recommended for deeper flavor development.
- Prepare cheese sauce: About 30 minutes before the casserole finishes, soften the cream cheese by warming the 8 oz block with 1 cup of chicken broth in a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan over low heat until smooth and lump-free, whisking thoroughly.
- Add cheese sauce and top casserole: Pour the smooth cream cheese mixture into the crockpot and stir gently to combine. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover and cook on low for an additional 30 minutes to melt the cheese and meld flavors.
- Serve: When bubbling and cheesy, the casserole is ready to serve. Spoon onto plates while hot and optionally garnish with sliced green onions for color and fresh flavor. Enjoy this comforting meal!
Notes
- Cooking on low heat for the full 6 hours enhances the depth of flavor.
- Frozen pierogies can be used directly; no need to thaw before cooking.
- Garnish with fresh green onions or chives for added color and freshness.
- This recipe can be doubled for larger gatherings, but use a larger crockpot.
- Use reduced-sodium chicken broth if you want to control salt intake.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: pierogi casserole, kielbasa casserole, crockpot recipes, slow cooker dinner, cheesy pierogies, comfort food, easy crockpot meal, kielbasa recipes
