This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Combining the cheesy, hearty goodness of Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies with smoky kielbasa and a rich cream cheese sauce, this dish is a family favorite. Let your slow cooker do all the work for a creamy, flavorful casserole that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: Minimal prep time—just toss everything in the crockpot!
Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: Cheesy, savory, and smoky—perfect for all ages.
Time-Saving: The slow cooker handles the cooking, freeing up your day.
Versatile Ingredients: Easily customize to fit dietary preferences or taste.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

4–6-quart Crockpot: The key to slow-cooked perfection, allowing flavors to meld.
Microwave-safe bowl or saucepan: To prepare the cream cheese mixture.
Whisk: Ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce.
Knife and Cutting Board: For evenly slicing the kielbasa.

Preparation Tips

Slightly defrost the pierogies for easier handling, though frozen works fine.
Slice the kielbasa into even rounds to ensure uniform cooking.
Warm the cream cheese mixture to make it easier to blend into the casserole.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this comforting casserole:

3 packages of Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies (frozen)
4 cups chicken broth, divided
1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping
1 pound kielbasa, sliced
Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

Add 3 cups of chicken broth, the frozen pierogies, sliced kielbasa, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into your 4–6-quart crockpot.
Stir to evenly distribute the ingredients.

2. Cook the Casserole

Set the crockpot to high for 3–4 hours or low for 6 hours. This slow cooking method allows the flavors to develop and meld beautifully.

3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

About 30 minutes before the casserole finishes cooking, heat the cream cheese and the remaining 1 cup of chicken broth in a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan.
Whisk the mixture thoroughly until it becomes smooth and lump-free.

4. Final Assembly

Pour the cream cheese mixture into the crockpot, stirring well to combine.
Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese over the top for extra cheesiness.

5. Finish Cooking

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for an additional 30 minutes. This step melts the cheese and fully blends the flavors.

6. Serve

Serve the casserole hot, garnished with optional sliced green onions for a pop of color and mild onion flavor.

Notes & Variations

Add Vegetables: Stir in peas, spinach, or broccoli for extra nutrients.
Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
Substitute Protein: Swap kielbasa for smoked turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.

Serving Suggestions

This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a hearty dish that can easily be enjoyed on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides takes the meal to the next level. Here are eight delicious options to serve alongside:

Steamed Green Beans

Adds a light, fresh crunch to balance the richness of the casserole.

Garlic Bread

Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce and adding a buttery, garlicky flavor.

Caesar Salad

A crisp salad with tangy dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the casserole.

Roasted Broccoli

The slightly charred, nutty flavor of roasted broccoli pairs beautifully with the creamy dish.

Mashed Potatoes

Double down on comfort food by serving mashed potatoes for extra indulgence.

Pickled Cucumbers or Pickles

A tangy, crunchy side that cuts through the richness of the casserole.

Cornbread Muffins

Adds a sweet and savory note while being an easy side to grab.

Apple Coleslaw

A slightly sweet and refreshing side that balances the smoky kielbasa and creamy sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid & Tips for Perfect Results

Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Pierogies

Issue: Cooking too long can make the pierogies overly soft or mushy.
Solution: Stick to the recommended cooking times (high for 3–4 hours, low for 6 hours).

Lumpy Cream Cheese Mixture

Issue: Adding cold or unmixed cream cheese can result in a grainy texture.
Solution: Warm the cream cheese with chicken broth and whisk until smooth before adding it to the crockpot.

Under-seasoning

Issue: The casserole can taste flat without proper seasoning.
Solution: Taste after adding cheese and kielbasa, then season with salt and pepper as needed.

Uneven Cooking

Issue: Ingredients may not cook evenly if not properly combined.
Solution: Stir the ingredients at least once during cooking to ensure everything cooks uniformly.

Tips for Recipe Perfection

For Extra Flavor: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or garlic powder to the cream cheese mixture for depth.
Cheese Topping Tip: For a golden-brown finish, transfer the casserole to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and broil for 2–3 minutes.
Make It Veggie-Friendly: Swap kielbasa for sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or plant-based sausage.
Elevate with Garnishes: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley, sliced green onions, or crispy bacon bits on top before serving for added flavor and texture.
Customizable Protein: Try turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a leaner option.

By following these serving ideas and tips, you’ll ensure this comforting casserole is not only a delicious centerpiece but also part of a well-rounded and memorable meal.

Recipe Tips

Experiment with Pierogi Flavors: While cheddar pierogies are classic, you can try potato & onion, loaded baked potato, or even jalapeño pierogies for a fun twist.
Add Vegetables: Stir in frozen peas, sautéed spinach, or diced carrots during the last hour of cooking to add a pop of color and nutrition.
Spice It Up: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Make It Healthier: Use low-sodium chicken broth, reduced-fat cream cheese, and turkey kielbasa to reduce sodium and fat without sacrificing flavor.
Serve for a Crowd: Double the recipe and use an 8-quart crockpot to feed a larger group—perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage

Refrigerator: Allow leftovers to cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers or bags. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Label the containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

Microwave: Heat individual portions in the microwave, covered, for 2–3 minutes. Stir halfway through for even heating.
Oven: Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until heated through.
Prevent Dryness: Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to maintain the creamy texture during reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade pierogies instead of frozen?

Yes! However, homemade pierogies may cook faster than frozen ones, so check them after 2–3 hours if cooking on high.

2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely. Replace the kielbasa with sliced mushrooms, caramelized onions, or plant-based sausage for a vegetarian-friendly version. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added depth of flavor.

3. What other cheeses can I use?

Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby cheese can be used instead of cheddar. A sprinkle of Parmesan on top adds a sharp, nutty flavor.

4. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole in the crockpot (without the cream cheese mixture) and refrigerate overnight. When ready to cook, set the crockpot as directed, then add the cream cheese mixture in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

5. What protein alternatives work well in this dish?

Turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even shredded rotisserie chicken are excellent alternatives to kielbasa.

6. How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too salty?

Use low-sodium chicken broth and taste the dish before adding additional salt. Kielbasa and cheese naturally add saltiness, so additional seasoning may not be necessary.

7. Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of a crockpot?

Yes! Simmer the ingredients (except the cream cheese mixture) in a large pot over medium-low heat for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Add the cream cheese mixture during the last 10–15 minutes and stir well.

Conclusion

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the ultimate comfort food, combining the smoky flavor of kielbasa with creamy, cheesy pierogies in a rich sauce. Perfect for busy families, potlucks, or a cozy weekend meal, this dish delivers effortless satisfaction. With its customizable ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Serve it alongside fresh vegetables, garlic bread, or a crisp salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, this casserole is guaranteed to become a household favorite.

Ready to dive into more easy, family-friendly meals? Check out our collection of crockpot recipes to keep your meal planning simple and delicious!

Pin Recipe Print Recipe