Slow Cooker Pierogi Casserole

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Slow Cooker Pierogi Casserole

A creamy, savory, “set it and forget it” twist on a classic comfort dish.

Prep time: 15 mins | Cook time: 3–4 hours (Low) | Servings: 6–8

Ingredients

  • Frozen Pierogies: 2 boxes (approx. 16 oz each), potato and onion or potato and cheese flavor.

  • Chicken Broth: 1 cup (low sodium preferred).

  • Cream Cheese: 1 block (8 oz), cubed and softened.

  • Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, shredded (sharp cheddar adds the best kick).

  • Kielbasa or Smoked Sausage: 1 lb, sliced into rounds.

  • Green Onions: ½ cup, sliced (for garnish).

  • Garlic Powder: 1 tsp.

  • Black Pepper: ½ tsp (salt is usually unnecessary due to the broth and kielbasa).

Instructions

  1. Layer the Base: Lightly grease your slow cooker. Place the frozen pierogies and sliced kielbasa into the pot.

  2. Add the Liquids: Pour the chicken broth over the pierogies. Evenly scatter the cubed cream cheese and sprinkle the garlic powder and pepper over the top.

  3. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 3 to 4 hours. Avoid cooking on High, as the dairy can break and the pierogies may become too mushy.

  4. The Melt: About 20 minutes before serving, open the lid and gently stir to incorporate the now-melted cream cheese. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover and cook until the cheddar is bubbly and melted.

  5. Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh green onions and serve warm.

Notes & Tips

  • Don’t Overcook: Frozen pierogies are precooked. If you leave them in for 6+ hours, they will lose their shape and turn into a (delicious) mashed potato blob.

  • Sausage Sear: If you have an extra 5 minutes, brown the kielbasa in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker for extra depth of flavor.

  • Vegetarian Option: Swap the kielbasa for sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Values are estimates based on a 6-serving yield.

Nutrient Amount
Calories 540 kcal
Total Fat 32g
Carbohydrates 42g
Protein 22g
Sodium 1,150mg

The Benefit

The primary benefit of this dish is efficiency. Traditional pierogies are labor-intensive; this version provides a high-protein, filling meal with minimal “active” kitchen time. It’s also incredibly kid-friendly and reheats beautifully for lunch the next day.

Q&A

Q: Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen?A: Yes, but reduce the cooking time by about an hour. Fresh pierogies cook much faster and can become soggy quickly in a slow cooker.

Q: My sauce looks a bit thin, how do I thicken it?A: If the sauce is too watery after stirring in the cream cheese, leave the lid off for the final 20 minutes of cooking. This allows excess moisture to evaporate.

Q: Can I add vegetables?A: Absolutely. Chopped bell peppers or a bag of frozen peas/carrots work well. Add them at the beginning with the pierogies.

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