Hey there, food lovers! If you’re looking for a cozy, no-fuss meal, this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole is your answer. It’s a hearty dish inspired by German and Eastern European flavors, perfect for busy days when you want comfort without the hassle.
This recipe brings together cheesy pierogies, savory turkey sausage, and creamy goodness, all cooked slowly to perfection. It’s a beginner-friendly dish that fills your home with an irresistible aroma as it simmers.
Whether you’re new to cooking or just craving something warm and filling, stick with me! I’ll walk you through every step to make this delicious meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Table Of Contents
Why This Dish Is a Must-Try
Curious why this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole deserves a spot on your menu? It’s not just tasty—it’s a lifesaver for busy folks. With minimal prep and incredible flavors, this slow-cooked meal offers comfort and convenience in every bite.
- Super Simple Prep: Just layer the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it do the work. No need for fancy skills—perfect for beginners.
- Comfort Food Vibes: The cheesy pierogies and savory sausage create a warm, hearty dish that feels like a hug on a plate.
- Time-Saver: Set it in the morning, and come home to a ready-to-eat meal. Ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
- Customizable: Easily swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. Add veggies or switch up the cheese for a personal twist.
Ingredients for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole
Let’s talk about what goes into this yummy Crockpot Pierogi Casserole. Each ingredient adds its own magic, creating a dish that’s rich, cheesy, and satisfying. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.
Main Ingredients:
- 16 oz Frozen Cheddar Pierogies (no thawing needed)
- 14 oz Turkey Sausage (sliced into rounds)
- 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese (for that gooey melt)
For the Sauce:
- 3 cups Chicken Broth
- 8 oz Cream Cheese (softened)
Important Ingredient Notes:
• Use frozen pierogies for best results.
• Turkey sausage can be swapped for chicken.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Making this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole is a breeze, even if you’re new to cooking. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready with minimal effort. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Preparation
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Slice the turkey sausage into bite-sized rounds if not pre-sliced. No need to thaw the pierogies—they go in frozen. Set your slow cooker to either low or high based on your timing.
Step 2: Layering
Pour 2 cups of chicken broth into the slow cooker. Add half the pierogies in an even layer, followed by half the sausage and 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Repeat with the remaining pierogies, sausage, and cheese.
Step 3: Cooking
Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The slow cooker will meld the flavors together, making the pierogies tender and cheesy. Check occasionally to ensure there’s enough liquid.
Step 4: Final Touch
About 30 minutes before serving, warm the cream cheese with the remaining 1 cup of broth in a microwave or stovetop until smooth. Stir it into the casserole for a creamy finish, then serve hot!
Expert Tips
Want to elevate your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole? Here are some handy tips to ensure success every time.
- Avoid Overcooking: Don’t cook longer than recommended, or the pierogies might get mushy. Check for tenderness after the minimum time.
- Add Extra Flavor: Toss in some sautéed onions or garlic powder with the layers for a deeper, savory taste that complements the cheese.
- Cheese Options: Mix in mozzarella or Colby jack with the cheddar for a different cheesy profile. Experiment to find your favorite combo.
Variations & Alternatives
Not everyone eats the same way, so here are some fun twists on this dish. Customize it to fit your preferences or pantry with these easy ideas.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the sausage and add veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken for a meat-free meal.
- Spicy Kick: Use spicy turkey sausage or sprinkle in red pepper flakes. It adds a nice heat that balances the creamy cheese.
- Different Pierogies: Try pierogies with other fillings like mushroom or spinach for a new flavor. Just ensure they’re frozen for best results.
Crockpot Pierogi Casserole – Quick And Easy
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A hearty dish inspired by German and Eastern European flavors, perfect for busy days when you want comfort without the hassle. This recipe brings together cheesy pierogies, savory turkey sausage, and creamy goodness, all cooked slowly to perfection.
Ingredients
- 16 oz frozen cheddar pierogies
- 14 oz turkey sausage, sliced into rounds
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and slice turkey sausage into bite-sized rounds if not pre-sliced.
- Pour 2 cups of chicken broth into the slow cooker.
- Add half the pierogies in an even layer.
- Layer half the sausage and 1 cup of cheddar cheese over pierogies.
- Repeat with remaining pierogies, sausage, and cheese.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, warm cream cheese with remaining 1 cup of broth until smooth.
- Stir the cream cheese mixture into the casserole for a creamy finish.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
Use frozen pierogies for best results – no need to thaw. Don’t cook longer than recommended or pierogies might get mushy. Turkey sausage can be swapped for chicken sausage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
What to Serve With It
Pairing your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with the right sides can make it even better. Here are some tasty options to round out your meal.
If you’re interested in more recipes, feel free to follow me on Facebook, Pinterest or Instagram!
- Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the casserole, adding a crisp, refreshing balance.
- Steamed Veggies: Broccoli or green beans steamed with a touch of butter pair well, adding color and nutrition to your plate.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. It’s a simple addition that feels so indulgent.
Häufig gestellte Fragen (FAQ)
Can I cook pierogies in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily cook pierogies in a slow cooker. For a Crockpot Pierogi Casserole, it’s ideal since the slow cooker cooks everything evenly, resulting in a flavorful dish.
You don’t need to boil the pierogies first; just layer them with ingredients like onions, cheese, and cream. Add spices and cook on low until tender and creamy.
Do you have to boil pierogies before baking?
No, there’s no need to boil pierogies before making a Crockpot Pierogi Casserole. Frozen or fresh pierogies can go straight into the slow cooker or oven, as they soften during cooking with the sauce or broth. This saves time and effort.
Just ensure there’s enough liquid to prevent drying out, and enjoy the simplicity.
How long to cook pierogi casserole?
The cooking time for a Crockpot Pierogi Casserole depends on your slow cooker setting. On low, it takes about 4-6 hours for the pierogies to become tender and flavors to blend. On high, it shortens to 2-3 hours. Check occasionally for liquid levels to avoid burning, and stir gently if needed.
Can you cook a casserole in a crockpot?
Yes, you can definitely cook a casserole in a crockpot, including a Crockpot Pierogi Casserole. A slow cooker is perfect for casseroles as it gently cooks and intensifies flavors.
Just layer your pierogies, sauce, cheese, and other ingredients, set the temperature, and let the device do the work. It’s a convenient method for home cooks short on time.
What is the difference between a slow cooker and a crockpot?
The term ‘Crockpot’ is a brand name for a specific type of slow cooker, but it’s often used interchangeably. Both devices work the same way: they cook food at low temperatures over long periods. For a Crockpot Pierogi Casserole, it doesn’t matter which you use.
Just pay attention to cooking times and temperature settings for the best results.
Conclusion
Wrapping up, this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for any day. It’s easy, flavorful, and brings a taste of home to your table with minimal effort. Perfect for beginners and busy cooks alike!
Why not give this recipe a try tonight? I’d love to hear how it turns out—drop a comment below or share your twist on it. Let’s cook up some cozy memories together!
