Crock Pot Pierogi with Kielbasa (Print Version)
Creamy pierogi layered with smoky kielbasa and cheese, slowly cooked for maximum comfort.
# 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
# How-To Steps:
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 the layering with remaining pierogi, kielbasa, and onions to create a second complete layer.
04 - In a mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream, melted butter, cream cheese, garlic, black pepper, salt, and smoked paprika until smooth and well combined.
05 - Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the layered ingredients, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese across the top.
06 - Cover and cook on low setting for 4 hours until pierogi are tender and the casserole is bubbly throughout.
07 - Sprinkle fresh chives over the top before serving, if desired, and serve hot.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- Everything comes together in one pot, leaving you free to enjoy a glass of wine while it works its magic
- The combination of smoky, creamy, and comforting flavors feels like a warm hug on a cold day
- Leftovers somehow taste even better, making it the gift that keeps giving throughout a busy week
02 -
- Peeking under the lid releases precious heat and adds about fifteen minutes to your cooking time every single time you do it
- Some slow cookers run hotter than others, so start checking at the three-and-a-half-hour mark to avoid overcooked, gummy pierogi
03 -
- Set your slow cooker on a timer if you'll be out longer than four hours, as overcooked pierogi turn into an unfortunate texture situation
- Line your slow cooker insert with a removable liner for cleanup so easy you'll feel like you're cheating