Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty meal on a chilly evening, and this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is the ultimate comfort food! Picture layers of tender pierogies, savory kielbasa, and creamy goodness all melded together in one pot. It’s a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of traditional polish cuisine with the convenience of crockpot cooking. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this casserole serves up both nostalgia and satisfaction, making it a favorite in my home!
Ingredients
- 1 package (16 ounces) frozen pierogies
- 1 pound kielbasa, sliced
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 7 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by layering half of the frozen pierogies in the bottom of your crockpot, spreading them out evenly.
- Next, add half of the sliced kielbasa over the pierogies, seasoning with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.
- In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Stir well until the mixture is creamy and homogeneous.
- Spread half of this delicious soup mixture over the layer in the crockpot, ensuring all pierogies are well covered.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the soup mixture, creating a cheesy layer full of flavor.
- Now, repeat the layers with the remaining pierogies, kielbasa, another dash of salt and pepper, the remaining soup mixture, and the rest of the cheddar cheese.
- If you’re using sauerkraut, add it on top of the last layer of cheese for a delightful crunchy twist.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the pierogies are tender and heated through.
- Once done, garnish with chopped green onions just before serving for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize this casserole with your favorite add-ins! Consider adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for an additional veggie boost. For a touch of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile. If you don’t have kielbasa on hand, Polish sausage or another type of smoked sausage works beautifully as well. And don’t skimp on the green onions—they add a fresh crunch!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe highlights the art of layering ingredients in a crockpot, allowing each layer to infuse its flavor into the others over the long cooking time. The beauty of the slow cooker is it transforms basic ingredients into something wonderfully rich and satisfying without much fuss. The slow cooking process ensures that the pierogies soften perfectly while absorbing the creamy and savory flavors from the kielbasa and soup.
FAQ
Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If you have fresh pierogies, just be sure to reduce the cooking time slightly, as they will cook faster than frozen ones.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftover pierogi casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before cooking! Just assemble it in a freezer-safe container and cook from frozen, adding a little extra time to ensure it heats through properly.
Conclusion
With its comforting textures and mouthwatering flavors, this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, it brings warmth to the table and joy to every bite. Enjoy serving this delectable dish to your loved ones, and relish the compliments that are sure to come!