Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

The kitchen fills with the kind of smell that makes you slow down as you cross the hallway. There is a gentle sizzle from the skillet where kielbasa browns, and a soft, warm aroma of melted cheese and garlic floats through the apartment. My kids chatter about homework at the table, and for a moment the city noise fades. This Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa – loudasrecipes is one of those dishes that feels like a hug on a plate. I reach for the wooden spoon, stir the pot, and remember my grandmother who would have loved a simple slow-cooked meal like this.

I love how this recipe bridges busy weekdays and slow Sunday afternoons. It is practical, forgiving, and full of flavor. Meanwhile, it gives you time to help with homework, fold laundry, or rush out for a quick errand while dinner quietly comes together. If you have ever wished a warm, comforting meal could make itself, this crockpot casserole almost does.

Why Make This Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa – loudasrecipes

This dish is perfect for families who need a reliable, tasty dinner after a long day. The pierogies soak up a rich, creamy broth. The kielbasa adds smoky depth. Cheese ties everything together. Kids usually ask for seconds. From there, the leftovers make a great lunch the next day.

I make this casserole on nights when I want a sense of home without hours of standing at the stove. It reminds me of winters in New York, when neighbors exchange loaves of bread and salads, and every bite warms you from the inside. This recipe fits in with a busy life, but it also brings people together. We eat at the table, pass bowls, and laugh over stories from the day.

This Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa – loudasrecipes works because it is built from a few strong parts. Pierogies give a soft, pillowy base. Kielbasa adds savory, meaty bites. The cream cheese and broth make a silky sauce. Cheese on top adds a crunchy, golden layer. It is simple, but it is full of texture and comfort.

How to Make Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa – loudasrecipes

“Every time I stir this pot, it smells just like Sunday at home.”

Before we go into specifics, picture the colors: golden slices of kielbasa, the pale ivory of pierogies, the creamy off-white sauce, and flecks of black pepper. The kitchen warms up. The aroma of garlic and browned meat arrives next. Once it’s ready, the top will be bubbly and lightly browned around the edges.

Start by browning the kielbasa to release those caramelized edges. Meanwhile, the cream cheese softens and blends into the chicken broth. From there, add the pierogies in a single layer so they cook evenly. Slow heat allows the flavors to mingle gently. This method keeps the pierogies soft and the sauce smooth, with cheese melting through every layer.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 3 packages Mrs. T’s cheddar pierogies
• 1 lb kielbasa, sliced
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Personal side note: If you can, use a good quality kielbasa and the real Mrs. T’s pierogies. They hold their texture well in slow cooking. Use fresh parsley or chives if you can; it gives the dish a little garden brightness at the end.

How I shop: I usually buy the pierogies in the frozen aisle, and the kielbasa from the deli counter here in Queens. I like the smoked variety for extra depth. If you want to make it lighter, choose a lower-sodium chicken broth.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the kielbasa. Slice the kielbasa into half-moons. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil, and brown the kielbasa for 4 to 6 minutes. Work in batches if needed. Watch for golden edges. Browning gives the kielbasa a deep, smoky flavor.
2. Soften the cream cheese. While the kielbasa browns, let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for a few minutes. This helps it melt smoothly into the broth. Alternatively, warm it in a microwave for 10 to 15 seconds, then stir until creamy.
3. Combine broths and cheese. In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 cups chicken broth with the softened cream cheese. Stir until mostly smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste. If the cream cheese is still a little lumpy, a whisk or fork will help it blend.
4. Layer the pierogies. Spray the bottom of your crockpot lightly with nonstick spray. Place one package of Mrs. T’s cheddar pierogies in an even layer. Break apart any that stick together so they cook evenly. From there, add a layer of browned kielbasa over the pierogies.
5. Add broth mixture. Pour about half of the chicken broth and cream cheese mixture over the first layer. Spread gently with a spoon so the liquid covers as much as it can. This helps the pierogies absorb flavor and soften uniformly.
6. Repeat layers. Add the second package of pierogies in another even layer. Top with more kielbasa. Pour the remaining broth mixture. Finish with the third package of pierogies on top, pressing them slightly into the sauce.
7. Slow cook. Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, or on high for about 2 to 2.5 hours. Check at the end of the time to ensure pierogies are tender and heated through. Every crockpot runs a little different, so check for doneness by tasting a pierogi.
8. Add shredded cheese. Once the pierogies are soft and the sauce looks thick and creamy, sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese across the top. Cover and let it melt for about 10 to 15 minutes. Watch for golden edges and bubbling.
9. Final touch. After cheese melts, turn the crockpot to warm if you are not serving immediately. Sprinkle chopped chives or parsley for color. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Once it’s ready, scoop generous portions onto plates and serve hot.
10. Serve and enjoy. Use a wide serving spoon and get a little bit of everything in each helping. The best bites are a mix of soft pierogi, smoky kielbasa, and melty cheese.

Tip: If you want a crisper top, transfer the finished casserole to an oven-safe dish and place under a hot broiler for 2 to 3 minutes. Watch closely so the cheese browns but does not burn.

Serving Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa – loudasrecipes at the Family Table

This is a family-style dish. I like to bring it to the center of the table in the crockpot on its warming setting. It makes for a cozy scene. The top steams when you lift the lid. My daughter always reaches for a second helping, and my son looks for the kielbasa slices first.

Set out simple sides. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness. A bowl of pickled vegetables adds a bright counterpoint. From my years of cooking, I have learned that a little acid on the side lifts the whole meal.

Pairings I love: roasted broccoli, sliced tomatoes with basil, or a jar of good dill pickles. For a heartier spread, warm crusty bread and a pot of sautéed mushrooms work beautifully.

Bring in small rituals. We pass a loaf, share stories from the day, and laugh at small things. Sometimes we make a game of who gets the most kielbasa. These are the moments that make a recipe more than a formula; they make it family.

Storing and Reheating Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa – loudasrecipes

Leftovers are honest and kind. They keep well, and the flavors deepen overnight. Here is how I handle the extras after a dinner in my tiny New York kitchen.

Store in airtight containers. Let the casserole cool for about 30 minutes. Transfer to shallow containers, then refrigerate. It will keep nicely for up to 3 days.

Freeze for longer. If you want to freeze, place portions in freezer-safe containers. They last up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheat gently. For the stovetop, add a splash of chicken broth or milk and warm on low, stirring until creamy. In the oven, cover with foil and bake at 350 F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. A microwave works in a pinch. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between to keep the sauce smooth.

Tip: The sauce thickens after chilling. A little extra broth or a spoonful of cream when reheating brings it back to that silky texture.

Quick Tips from My Kitchen

• Brown the kielbasa well. That caramelized edge adds a lot of flavor. It is worth the extra 3 to 5 minutes.
• Soften the cream cheese first. Room temperature cream cheese blends faster and gives a smoother sauce.
• Check pierogi doneness. Pierogies vary by brand, so taste one near the end of cooking time to prevent overcooking.
• Use low-sodium broth if you watch salt. You can always add more salt at the end.
• Add fresh herbs at the end. Parsley, chives, or green onions keep their color and lift the dish.

Variations on Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa – loudasrecipes

This casserole loves adaptations. Once you know the basics, you can change small things for big effects. Here are a few ideas I have tried with family and neighbors.

Vegetable boost: Add a layer of sautéed onions and bell peppers along with the kielbasa. It adds sweetness and a little crunch.

Mushroom twist: Sauté mushrooms until golden before adding. They add earthiness and blend well with the cream cheese base.

Spicy kick: Use a hot kielbasa, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. It gives a slow, warming heat that kids may not notice until later.

Cheese swap: Try pepper jack or smoked gouda in place of cheddar for a different flavor profile. Smoked gouda brings a restaurant-like depth that pairs well with the kielbasa.

Lighten it up: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and a low-fat shredded cheddar. Add more vegetables to balance textures.

Breakfast-style: Top with a fried egg for a brunch version. Serve with roasted tomatoes and a small salad.

A favorite simple weeknight twist of mine is to pair this with a bowl of soup when I need a larger variety for a potluck. If you like hearty soups, you might enjoy pairing this with an autumn tortellini option, like the one I use when I want a seasonal companion that shares the same cozy spirit, similar to this autumn tortellini soup with sausage. That soup’s warmth and spice profile match the kielbasa and bring another layer to the meal. If you prefer a morning-friendly take, this casserole asks for the same kind of comforting eggs and bread you find in a classic breakfast casserole for weekend brunch. Both are easy to prepare and resonate with the same family-friendly care you find in this dish.

Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

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• Author: cookthatdish
• Total Time: 195 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings
• Diet: Omnivore

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Description

A warm, comforting casserole that combines creamy pierogies with savory kielbasa and melted cheese, all slow-cooked to perfection.

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Ingredients

• 3 packages Mrs. T’s cheddar pierogies
• 1 lb kielbasa, sliced
• 4 cups chicken broth (divided)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Brown the kielbasa: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add oil, and brown the kielbasa for 4 to 6 minutes.
2. Soften the cream cheese: Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds.
3. Combine broths and cheese: Whisk together 3 cups chicken broth and softened cream cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Layer the pierogies: Spray the crockpot with nonstick spray and layer one package of pierogies, then top with half of the browned kielbasa.
5. Add broth mixture: Pour half of the broth mixture over the first layer, ensuring even coverage.
6. Repeat layers: Layer the second package of pierogies, remaining kielbasa, and then pour over the remaining broth mixture. Top with the third package of pierogies.
7. Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 2-2.5 hours, checking for tenderness.
8. Add shredded cheese: Once ready, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top and let it melt for 10-15 minutes.
9. Final touch: Serve hot with sprinkled fresh herbs.

Notes

For a crisper top, transfer to an oven-safe dish and broil for 2-3 minutes.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 180 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Polish

FAQs About Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa – loudasrecipes

A Final Thought

There is a quiet joy in making a meal that wraps your family in warmth. Classic Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa – loudasrecipes does just that. It is not perfect or fancy, but it is honest and full of comfort. Cooking this way reminds me that food can be both simple and meaningful. It brings us back to the table, to stories and laughter.

Thank you for letting me share this recipe and little kitchen moments with you. Whether you are rushing home from work, or carving out a weekend for family, this casserole is a reminder that good food is possible on any night. Once you try it, I hope it becomes one of those dishes you reach for when you want something warm and steady.