Crockpot Pierogi Casserole With Kielbasa Recipe

If you're looking for a comforting, easy-to-make meal that combines the hearty flavors of pierogies and kielbasa, this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the perfect dish for you. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious blend of creamy textures and smoky flavors that everyone will love. Follow this guide to learn how to make this fantastic dish, and don't forget to read through all the steps to ensure a perfect result!

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What is a Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa?

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together traditional Polish pierogies and savory kielbasa sausage, all cooked in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Pierogies, which are doughy dumplings typically filled with mashed potatoes, cheese, or other ingredients, are a staple in Eastern European cuisine. Kielbasa, a type of smoked sausage, adds a robust flavor that complements the softness of the pierogies. This dish is perfect for those who want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The crockpot makes it incredibly convenient—just throw in the ingredients, set it, and forget it until it's time to eat!

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Ingredients List for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Here’s a detailed list of the ingredients you’ll need to make this delightful casserole:

• 32 ounces of frozen pierogies (2 x 16-ounce boxes): You can use any variety of pierogies, such as potato and cheese, sauerkraut, or meat-filled pierogies, depending on your preference.
• 1 pound of kielbasa: Cut into 1-inch slices. You can opt for turkey kielbasa or other varieties if you're looking for a lower-fat option.
• 3 cups of low-sodium chicken broth: This forms the base of your cooking liquid and helps to keep the dish moist while cooking.
• Salt and pepper to taste: These basic seasonings are crucial for enhancing the flavors of the dish.
• 4 ounces of block-style cream cheese: This adds a rich creaminess to the casserole.
• ½ cup of low-sodium chicken broth: Used separately to blend with the cream cheese, making it easier to mix into the casserole.
• ½ cup of sour cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess, balancing out the richness of the cheese and sausage.
• 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Adds a nice, sharp flavor to the dish, making it extra cheesy and delicious.

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Toppings

To finish off your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa, you'll need the following toppings:

• 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: This will melt over the top of the casserole, creating a gooey, cheesy layer that’s irresistible.
• Green onions, diced: These add a pop of color and a bit of freshness to the dish, balancing out the richness of the cheese and cream.

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Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is versatile, and you can easily make substitutions based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand:

• Pierogies: If you can’t find frozen pierogies, you can use homemade pierogies or even substitute with ravioli for a similar texture and flavor profile.
• Kielbasa: For a lighter option, substitute kielbasa with turkey sausage or chicken sausage. Vegetarians can use plant-based sausage alternatives to keep the flavors smoky and satisfying.
• Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Gouda, Swiss, or even mozzarella can be used in place of cheddar to change up the flavor.
• Sour Cream: Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative to sour cream, providing the same tanginess with less fat.
• Add-ins: Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is incredibly simple. Here's how to do it:

1. Prepare the Kielbasa: Start by slicing the kielbasa into 1-inch pieces. If you prefer, you can lightly brown the kielbasa in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot. This step is optional but adds an extra depth of flavor.
2. Layer the Pierogies: Place the frozen pierogies directly into the bottom of your crockpot. There's no need to thaw them beforehand; just layer them evenly.
3. Add Kielbasa: Distribute the kielbasa slices over the pierogies, making sure they are evenly spread out.
4. Mix the Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine 3 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, 4 ounces of cream cheese, ½ cup of additional chicken broth, and ½ cup of sour cream. Mix until the cream cheese is fully incorporated, forming a smooth, creamy sauce.
5. Pour the Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture over the pierogies and kielbasa in the crockpot. Use a spoon to ensure the sauce is evenly distributed and covers all the ingredients.
6. Cook: Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. Cooking times may vary depending on your crockpot, so check for doneness periodically.
7. Add Cheese: About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover the crockpot again and allow the cheese to melt.
8. Garnish: Once the cooking time is complete, and the cheese has melted, sprinkle the diced green onions on top for a fresh, vibrant finish.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making this dish is easy, but here are a few common mistakes to avoid:

• Not thawing the cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature or softened before mixing it into the sauce. Cold cream cheese can be difficult to blend and may leave lumps.
• Overcooking: Be careful not to overcook the pierogies, as they can become mushy. Start checking for doneness at the lower end of the cooking time.
• Forgetting the cheese topping: Adding the cheese topping at the right time is crucial. If you add it too early, it might burn or harden too much.
• Skipping the browning step for kielbasa: While optional, browning the kielbasa adds a deeper flavor. Skipping this step might result in a less flavorful dish.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation plays a big role in how a dish is received, even a hearty, comforting dish like this one. Here are some tips on how to serve and present your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa:

• Serve Hot: This dish is best served hot, straight from the crockpot. The cheese will be gooey, and the pierogies will be soft and tender.
• Family Style: Serve this casserole family-style by bringing the crockpot directly to the table and letting everyone serve themselves. This encourages a casual, communal dining experience.
• Individual Servings: For a more refined presentation, scoop individual portions into bowls or onto plates and garnish each serving with extra green onions or a dollop of sour cream.
• Color Contrast: Add a side of sautéed green beans, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the casserole and add some color to your plate.

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How to Serve Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Serving this dish is straightforward, but here are a few tips to make it even better:

• Portion Control: This casserole is quite rich, so consider portioning it into smaller servings, especially if you’re serving it alongside other dishes.
• Sides: Serve with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots to balance the richness of the dish.
• Bread: A slice of crusty bread or a dinner roll can be a great accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.

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Presentation Ideas for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Even a comforting casserole can look beautiful on the table. Here are some presentation ideas:

• Casserole Dish: If you're transferring the dish from the crockpot to a serving dish, use a decorative casserole dish that adds to the table’s aesthetic.
• Garnishes: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or dill over the casserole before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
• Layered Presentation: If you're serving individually, try layering the pierogies and kielbasa in a bowl, topping with the cheese, and then garnishing with green onions and herbs.

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Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa Recipe Tips

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfect every time:

• Pierogi Placement: When layering the pierogies, try to overlap them slightly to ensure even cooking and that every bite gets a good mix of flavors.
• Sauce Consistency: If you find that the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth. If it's too thin, allow the casserole to cook uncovered for the last 15 minutes to reduce the liquid.
• Cheese Crust: If you like a crispy cheese topping, transfer the casserole to an oven-safe dish after cooking, add the cheese, and place it under the broiler for a few minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen ones?
A: Yes, you can use fresh pierogies, but reduce the cooking time slightly as they don’t need as long to cook as frozen ones.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole in the crockpot the night before and store it in the fridge. The next day, just turn on the crockpot and cook as directed.

Q: What can I substitute for kielbasa?
A: You can use any smoked sausage, or even cooked ground meat like beef or turkey if you prefer. For a vegetarian option, use a plant-based sausage.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

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Conclusion

This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply want a delicious, no-fuss dinner, this recipe is sure to satisfy. With its creamy sauce, cheesy topping, and hearty pierogies and kielbasa, it's a dish that everyone will ask for again and again. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family so they can enjoy it too!

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