Crock Pot Pierogi Kielbasa (Printable Version)
Creamy slow cooker pierogi layered with smoky kielbasa, onions, and three cheeses for ultimate comfort food.
# What You'll Need:
→ Meats
01 - 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
→ Dairy
02 - 1 cup sour cream
03 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
04 - 1/2 cup cream cheese, cubed
05 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
→ Pasta
06 - 2 lbs frozen potato and cheese pierogi
→ Vegetables
07 - 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
08 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
09 - 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
→ Spices & Seasonings
10 - 1 teaspoon black pepper
11 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
12 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
# Step-by-Step:
01 - Coat the inside of the Crock Pot with non-stick spray or a small amount of butter to prevent sticking.
02 - Arrange half the frozen pierogi in the bottom of the slow cooker, then top with half of the sliced kielbasa and half of the sliced onions.
03 - Repeat layering with remaining pierogi, kielbasa, and onions to create a second complete layer.
04 - Whisk together sour cream, melted butter, cream cheese, garlic, black pepper, salt, and smoked paprika in a mixing bowl until completely smooth and well combined.
05 - Pour the creamy sauce mixture evenly over the layered ingredients, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese across the top surface.
06 - Cover and cook on low setting for 4 hours until pierogi are tender and casserole is bubbly throughout.
07 - Sprinkle fresh chopped chives over the top just before serving, if desired.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- Everything comes together in one vessel and walks away until dinner time
- The pierogi absorb that smoky sausage flavor while still staying tender and pillowy
- This feeds a crowd with almost zero active cooking effort
02 -
- Frozen pierogi must go directly into the slow cooker because thawing makes them fall apart during long cooking
- The sauce will look thin when you pour it but thickens beautifully as the pierogi release starch
- Every slow cooker heats differently so check at the 3 hour mark if yours runs hot
03 -
- Spray your ladle with cooking spray before serving to prevent the cheesy sauce from sticking
- Place a towel under the lid if your slow cooker tends to collect condensation that drips back onto the food