Crock Pot Pierogi Kielbasa

This Crock Pot pierogi casserole is my go-to comfort dish for chilly evenings when I need something cozy and filling. The combination of cheesy sauce, tender pierogies, and smoky kielbasa creates a meal that everyone comes running for.

I threw this together on a busy weeknight and watched everyone fight for seconds. It is now in heavy rotation whenever we crave something hearty.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Frozen pierogies: Choose any flavor but onion or potato cheddar are my favorite because they hold up well in the slow cooker and soak up the sauce
• Kielbasa sausage: Go for a good quality smoked kielbasa which adds deep savory flavor and a satisfying texture
• Cream cheese: Make sure it is softened for easiest blending and extra creamy sauce
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for extra punch and meltability
• Sour cream: Full fat works best for a rich sauce and helps balance the smokiness
• Chicken broth: Use a low sodium or homemade version if possible to control saltiness while adding moisture
• Small onion: Choose a fresh firm onion for brightness and flavor base
• Butter: Real butter gives a better caramelized edge to the onions and depth to the dish
• Salt and pepper: Grind your own pepper and add salt to taste for best results

How to Make It

Sauté the Aromatics:

Melt butter in a skillet set over medium heat. Add in finely chopped onion and cook for about eight minutes or until golden and fragrant. This step gives the casserole its foundational sweet and savory notes.

Brown the Kielbasa:

Toss sliced kielbasa into the same skillet and cook a few minutes until the edges get lightly browned. Browning the sausage deepens its smoky taste and adds delicious texture.

Mix the Creamy Sauce:

In a large bowl combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and chicken broth. Whisk together until completely smooth. Add a sprinkle of garlic powder along with some salt and cracked pepper. Taste and adjust as you like.

Layer the Casserole:

Spray the inside of your crock pot with non stick spray. Start by layering half the frozen pierogies on the bottom. Top with half the browned kielbasa, spoon over half of the creamy mixture. Repeat with the remaining ingredients. Gently spread to cover.

Cook and Finish:

Set crock pot to low for about three hours or high for about one and a half hours. During the last twenty minutes, sprinkle cheddar cheese all over the top so it gets gooey. If you want some added color, toss in a handful of frozen peas or spinach near the end.

Serve and Enjoy:

Scoop hot servings onto plates, making sure everyone gets pierogies, sausage, and plenty of sauce. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli.

Pierogies have always been my freezer staple, but when I first made this with smoky sausage the combo was such a hit my husband called it the ultimate comfort food. Now we make it for every family movie night.

Flavor Boosters

Feel free to swap in turkey kielbasa for a lighter version or smoked tofu for a meatless option. I have swapped sour cream for Greek yogurt in a pinch and the sauce still turned out silky. If you cannot find pierogies, use refrigerated or frozen potato dumplings for a similar result.

Serving Suggestions

This holds its own as a main course, but it shines with crisp coleslaw or vinegary cucumbers on the side. For a full meal I love serving it alongside steamed green beans or a garlicky salad.

Creative Twists

Pierogi casseroles are often inspired by Eastern European comfort cooking where dumplings and smoked sausage meet creamy sauces and loads of cheese. While this version is more American style using convenient store bought pierogies, the spirit of gathering and sharing fills every bite. In the fall, try adding sauteed mushrooms or cubed roasted squash. For a spring version toss in fresh baby spinach and a squeeze of lemon right before serving.

This cozy casserole brings comfort every time. Enjoy it for a family meal or share with friends—it always disappears fast!

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ What kind of pierogies should I use?

Choose any frozen pierogie flavor, like cheddar, onion, or potato, for added variety and taste.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the layers in your crock pot and refrigerate. Cook when you're ready to enjoy.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors improve after a day!

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Stir in spinach or peas during the last 30 minutes for color and freshness.

→ What makes the sauce creamy?

The rich sauce comes from blending cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, and cheddar.