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This crockpot pierogi casserole with sausage is the kind of slow-cooked comfort meal that takes the stress out of weeknight dinners and fills the house with cozy aromas. You get tender pierogies, rich sausage, melty cheese, and a creamy mushroom sauce all in one dish. This recipe quickly became a staple for my family on busy nights when we wanted something hearty but did not want to stand over the stove for hours.
I first made this during a chilly week when everyone seemed to need a little extra warmth and nostalgia The creamy sauce and sausage paired with pillowy pierogies became an instant hit and now it is a go-to comfort meal for us
Ingredients
- Frozen pierogies: These are the heart of the dish Choose potato cheese or onion filling Look for brands with simple ingredients for the best flavor
- Sausage: Sliced into rounds Use smoky kielbasa or a garlicky sausage for bold taste Seek out high-quality links for best results
- Onion: Diced and sautéed Builds aromatic depth For sweeter flavor select a yellow or Vidalia onion
- Cheddar cheese: Shredded Melts into creamy bites Go for sharp cheddar or your favorite blend and buy block cheese to shred yourself for superior melt
- Condensed cream of mushroom soup: Provides a savory creamy sauce Choose a low-sodium version if preferred
- Sour cream: Adds richness and tang Go for full-fat sour cream for best texture
- Milk: Thins the sauce Just a splash of whole or two percent gives creaminess without heaviness
- Butter: Used to sauté the onions Adds savory flavor Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness
- Garlic powder: For a gentle garlic undertone Use a fresh jar or grind your own for best potency
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle heat Look for coarsely ground black pepper to maximize aroma
- Smoked paprika: Gives subtle smoky warmth Seek out Spanish smoked paprika for a robust flavor
- Fresh parsley: For garnish Lends a pop of color and freshness Flat-leaf parsley is easier to chop finely
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot:
- Grease the inside of your crockpot with a little butter or nonstick spray This step makes cleanup much easier and keeps the casserole from sticking
- Sauté the Onions:
- Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat Add diced onions and stir for four minutes until translucent and fragrant This step develops sweetness and flavor
- Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Combine the cream of mushroom soup sour cream milk garlic powder black pepper and smoked paprika in a bowl Whisk until totally smooth and creamy This is your flavor anchor
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Begin with half the frozen pierogies at the bottom of the crockpot Add half the sausage sautéed onions and shredded cheddar cheese Pour over half of the creamy sauce Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients ending with cheese on top This ensures every bite is saucy and flavorful
- Slow Cook:
- Cover with the lid and set to low for four hours or high for three hours The dish is done when pierogies are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbling
- Garnish and Serve:
- Right before serving sprinkle chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and herbaceous finish Serve spoonfuls of hot cheesy casserole and enjoy
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My favorite part is the way the cream of mushroom sauce soaks into every layer I remember making this with my kids for the first time and the biggest smiles appeared as we scooped into the cheesy top
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in your fridge for up to four days If you want to freeze it let the casserole cool completely then store in a freezer-safe dish To reheat cover with foil and warm slowly in the oven so the sauce stays creamy
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap out regular kielbasa for spicy sausage if you want more heat For a meatless version use vegetarian sausage or leave it out and bump up the cheese If you do not have cream of mushroom soup cream of chicken works in a pinch
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole just as it is or add a quick green salad for contrast Steamed broccoli or oven-roasted green beans are great sides If you want to stretch the meal make garlic bread to scoop up the extra sauce
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Cultural Notes
Pierogies have a long tradition in Eastern European kitchens especially Poland and Ukraine Families gather to fill and fold them by hand so using frozen pierogies adds that flavor nostalgia without hours of prep This casserole brings those classic tastes to the table with modern weeknight ease
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use different pierogi fillings?
Absolutely! Potato and cheddar are classic options, but bacon, sauerkraut, or onion pierogies also work well and add unique flavor.
- → Is it necessary to sauté the onions first?
Sautéing onions brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall taste of the casserole, so it's highly recommended.
- → Can I substitute the sausage with another protein?
Yes, smoked kielbasa, turkey sausage, or even vegetarian sausage alternatives can be used based on your preference.
- → How can I make the sauce creamier?
Adding an extra spoonful of sour cream or a splash more milk makes the sauce richer and even more luscious.
- → Do leftovers reheat well?
Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge and reheated gently for a quick, satisfying meal.
- → Can I add extra vegetables?
Yes, thinly sliced mushrooms or bell peppers can be added for extra flavor and texture in the layers.