Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa: Easy Family Comfort Food

Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is one of those set-it-and-forget-it dinners that practically cooks itself while filling your house with the kind of comforting aroma that makes everyone wander into the kitchen asking, “Is it ready yet?” This hearty dish combines cheesy pierogies and smoky kielbasa in a creamy sauce that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.

Perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or when you just need a little carb-filled comfort, this recipe lets your crockpot do all the heavy lifting. The best part? You’ll spend just 15 minutes prepping before you can kick back and let the magic happen. If you love cozy, stick-to-your-ribs meals like my Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo, you’re going to want this one on repeat.

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What is Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa?

Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a Polish-inspired comfort food turned easy American slow-cooker meal. Traditionally, pierogies—those pillowy potato-and-cheese dumplings—are boiled or pan-fried, but here they’re transformed into a creamy casserole that practically melts in your mouth. Sliced kielbasa adds a smoky, savory note that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce made from cream cheese, cheddar, and chicken broth.

The result? A cheesy, meaty, one-pot wonder that tastes like grandma’s kitchen met modern convenience. This version keeps all the soul of traditional pierogies but skips the hassle of boiling and frying. Just layer, pour, and let the slow cooker handle it while you conquer your day.

Reasons to Try Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

There are plenty of reasons this Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation. First, it’s absurdly simple—no chopping a mile-long ingredient list or juggling a dozen pans. You can literally toss everything in the crockpot before work and come home to dinner ready to go. Second, it’s family-approved! Even picky eaters can’t say no to gooey cheddar, tender dumplings, and smoky sausage.

Third, it’s versatile. You can add veggies like peas or spinach for a little extra nutrition (or sneak them in without anyone noticing). Finally, it’s pure comfort food that doesn’t break the bank. Just like my Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create something downright magical.

Ingredients Needed to Make Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

• 1 lb kielbasa, sliced
• 16 oz frozen pierogies
• 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
  Optional: frozen peas or spinach for added veggies

Instructions to Make Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa – Step by Step

Step 1: Layer the Kielbasa

Start your step-by-step journey by laying sliced kielbasa across the bottom of your crockpot. This creates a flavorful foundation as the sausage releases its smoky oils during cooking. You can use traditional Polish kielbasa or a milder smoked sausage depending on your family’s taste. Don’t worry about perfection—just spread it out evenly so every bite later gets that savory goodness.

Step 2: Add the Pierogies

Next, take those frozen pierogies and scatter them right over the kielbasa layer. No need to thaw them—straight from freezer to crockpot works beautifully. This is the secret to that melt-in-your-mouth texture by the end. Think of this step as building the cheesy, carby heart of your casserole.

Step 3: Add Cream Cheese and Seasonings

Now cube your cream cheese (so it melts faster and more evenly) and dot it across the top. Sprinkle in a pinch of salt and a few cracks of pepper. The cream cheese will slowly melt into the broth later, creating that rich, creamy sauce we all crave. Pro tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in a little garlic powder or onion powder here for a deeper flavor profile.

Step 4: Pour in Chicken Broth

Pour chicken broth gently over your layers. Don’t stir—just let it seep down naturally. The broth not only keeps the pierogies moist but helps everything blend into a creamy, dreamy sauce by the end of cooking. It’s the glue that ties all the cheesy, sausage-y layers together.

Step 5: Top with Cheddar Cheese

Finally, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top like a golden blanket. You can use sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor or mild if you want something more subtle. If you want that picture-perfect gooey cheese pull, don’t be shy—add an extra handful.

Step 6: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your crockpot and set it to LOW for 4–6 hours. This step-by-step slow-cooking process allows the flavors to marry perfectly. You’ll notice the cream cheese melting into the broth, the pierogies becoming tender, and the kielbasa infusing everything with smoky goodness. Around the 4-hour mark, peek in to make sure nothing’s drying out. If it looks a little thick, add a splash more broth.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

When the timer’s up, stir everything gently to coat the pierogies in the luscious sauce. Scoop it into bowls, top with a sprinkle of parsley if you’re feeling fancy, and watch your family dive in. That first bite of creamy pierogi, cheesy sauce, and juicy kielbasa? Absolute comfort food perfection.

What to Serve with Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but a simple green side never hurts. Try serving it with a crisp salad, roasted Brussels sprouts, or even garlic bread to soak up that creamy sauce. If you want to keep the Polish theme going, serve it alongside a tangy cabbage slaw or some sauerkraut. And for dessert? My Strawberry Shortcake Cups make the perfect light finish after such a rich meal.

Key Tips for Making Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

1. Use pre-cooked kielbasa—it saves time and avoids any worries about undercooking.
2. Don’t thaw the pierogies. Cooking them from frozen keeps them tender, not mushy.
3. Want more sauce? Add an extra half cup of broth or a splash of heavy cream near the end.
4. Sneak in veggies like frozen spinach or peas for added nutrition.
5. If you prefer a little crunch, pop the cooked casserole under the broiler for a few minutes to brown the cheese.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Leftovers (if there are any) keep beautifully! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven with a splash of broth or milk to bring back the creamy texture. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight before reheating. It’s the perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeks when you need something cozy without the effort.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen? Yes! Just reduce the cooking time by an hour.
Can I make this without cream cheese? You can substitute with sour cream or a mix of heavy cream and shredded cheese.
Can I double the recipe? Absolutely—just use a larger slow cooker or split between two.
Is it spicy? Not unless you use spicy kielbasa. You can always add red pepper flakes for a kick.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is everything comfort food should be—creamy, hearty, and absolutely no-fuss. It’s one of those recipes you’ll come back to whenever life gets busy and you still want a meal that feels homemade. With just a handful of ingredients and a slow cooker, dinner practically makes itself. If you love easy slow cooker meals, be sure to check out my Creamy Crockpot Marry Me Chicken next—it’s another crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.

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