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Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa
John

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Creamy, cheesy comfort food featuring tender pierogies, smoky kielbasa, and rich cheese sauce made easy in the slow cooker.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American, Polish
Calories: 684

Ingredients
  

  • 3 packages frozen cheddar pierogies (16 oz each) Mrs. T's recommended
  • 4 cups chicken broth divided
  • 1 lb kielbasa or smoked sausage sliced into rounds
  • 1 medium yellow onion thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil for browning
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded, divided
  • freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • sliced green onions for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • 6-quart slow cooker
  • Large skillet
  • Small saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Brown the kielbasa and onions: Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced kielbasa and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes. Add onions and cook until softened, 3-4 minutes more.
  2. Layer the casserole: Place half the frozen pierogies in a 6-quart slow cooker. Pour 2 cups chicken broth over them. Add half the kielbasa-onion mixture and 1 cup shredded cheddar. Repeat layers with remaining pierogies, broth, kielbasa, and cheese.
  3. Cook: Cover and cook on HIGH for 2-3 hours or LOW for 4-5 hours, gently stirring once halfway through to prevent sticking.
  4. Make the cream sauce: About 30 minutes before serving, warm cream cheese with 1/2 cup chicken broth in a small saucepan over low heat, whisking until smooth.
  5. Finish the casserole: Pour cream cheese mixture over the casserole and gently stir to combine. Sprinkle remaining 1 cup cheddar on top. Cover and cook on LOW for 30 more minutes until cheese melts and sauce thickens.
  6. Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions if desired. Let rest 10 minutes before serving for best texture.

Notes

  • Don't skip browning the kielbasa - it adds crucial smoky flavor
  • Use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumpy sauce
  • Reduce cook time if your slow cooker runs hot to prevent mushy pierogies
  • Let casserole rest before serving so sauce sets up properly