Slow Cooker Buttered Pierogi

Slow Cooker Buttered Pierogi (Ultimate Comfort Style)

Tender pierogi cooked low and slow with butter and savory add-ins, turning a bag of frozen dumplings into a rich, hearty, soul-warming meal.

Description

This slow cooker pierogi recipe is the definition of dump-and-go comfort food. Frozen pierogi gently steam and soak up buttery, savory flavors while staying pillowy and soft. Perfect as a main dish, side, or potluck favorite—no boiling, no babysitting, no stress.

Prep & Cook Time

  • Prep: 5 minutes

  • Cook: 2–3 hours (LOW) or 1–1½ hours (HIGH)

  • Total: About 2½ hours

Servings

  • Serves: 4–6 people

 Ingredients

  • 1 (16–24 oz) bag frozen pierogi (potato & cheese recommended)

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, cut into cubes

  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced (optional but excellent)

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

  • ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth

  • ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • Optional add-ins:

    • ½ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella

    • ½ cup sour cream (stir in at the end)

    • 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled

    • Smoked sausage or kielbasa slices

    • Fresh chives or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease the slow cooker.

  2. Add frozen pierogi in an even layer (no need to thaw).

  3. Scatter onion and garlic over the top (if using).

  4. Pour in broth.

  5. Dot the pierogi with butter cubes.

  6. Season with salt and pepper.

  7. Cover and cook:

    • LOW: 2–3 hours

    • HIGH: 1–1½ hours
      Stir gently once halfway if possible.

  8. Add cheese or sour cream during the last 15 minutes (optional).

  9. Garnish with bacon or herbs before serving.

 Tips for Best Results

  • Don’t overcook – pierogi can break apart if left too long.

  • Use broth, not water for max flavor.

  • If things look dry, add a splash more broth—not milk.

  • Want crispy edges? Finish under the broiler or in a skillet with butter for 2–3 minutes.

 Nutritional Info (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: ~380–450

  • Carbohydrates: ~45g

  • Fat: ~22g

  • Protein: ~9g
    (Varies by pierogi brand and add-ins)

 Benefits

  • Convenient: Frozen pierogi + slow cooker = zero effort

  • Budget-friendly: Feeds a crowd for cheap

  • Comforting: High satiety, cozy textures, rich flavor

  • Customizable: Vegetarian, meaty, or extra cheesy—your call

 Q & A

Q: Can I use any pierogi flavor?
A: Yes! Potato & cheese works best, but onion, bacon, or even mushroom pierogi are great.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. Reheat on LOW with a splash of broth or butter.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: You can, but texture is best when fresh. Refrigerate up to 3 days instead.

Q: How do I make it heartier?
A: Add kielbasa, bacon, or sautéed mushrooms.

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