I remember the exact moment I first tasted the magic of Crockpot Pierogi Casserole. It was a cozy Sunday afternoon at a friend’s house, the kind of day when the sky is gray but the kitchen feels warm and inviting. I was instantly surprised by how the combination of soft, pillowy pierogi layered with a creamy cheese sauce and savory sausage created a comforting meal that felt like a big hug on a plate. There was something so simple yet deeply satisfying about this slow cooker pierogi casserole that kept me coming back for bites even after seconds.
What makes this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole unforgettable isn’t just how easy it is to pull together; it’s how it transforms a humble dumpling into a family favorite with minimal effort. It perfectly captures my passion for approachable comfort food that brings people together—no fancy skills required. This recipe fits beautifully into my kitchen philosophy: meals that nurture the soul without demanding hours in the kitchen.
I’m genuinely excited to share my Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with you. Whether you’re craving a cozy dish for a busy weeknight or a special meal that sparks smiles around the dinner table, this recipe is ready to deliver. Let’s get you cooking some crockpot comfort food that everyone will love!
Ingredients
For this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole, the ingredients are friendly, simple, and focused on comfort. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 (16 oz) package frozen potato and cheese pierogies – The secret to perfect softness and richness without extra effort! Look for pierogies made with quality potatoes and creamy cheese inside.
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced – Adds a savory punch, but you can swap for kielbasa or even a meatless sausage for a different twist.
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced – Adds sweetness and depth as it cooks low and slow.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – This brings creamy, melty goodness. Feel free to upgrade to sharp cheddar for extra flavor.
- 1 cup sour cream – For that tangy, smooth layer in the casserole.
- 1 cup heavy cream – If you prefer lighter dishes, half-and-half is a good alternative.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for warming up the whole flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – Simple seasoning to bring it all together.
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped – For bright color and a fresh finish on top.
You’ll find the best ingredients for this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole at your local grocery store or ethnic food markets where they often have fresh pierogi options. If you want to splurge on one ingredient, make it the smoked sausage—it really adds a beautiful smoky richness that lifts this dish.
If you need to cater to dietary preferences, you can easily customize the sausage choice or use non-dairy cream alternatives but keep in mind the texture might shift a bit.
Pro tip: Prep your pierogies frozen, so they hold their shape while cooking in the crockpot, and slice your sausage a day ahead for hassle-free assembling time on cooking day.
Let’s Make This!
1. Start by layering your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with half of the frozen pierogies spread evenly in the bottom of your slow cooker.
2. Next, add half of your sliced sausage and onions on top. Don’t worry about mixing—the layers will meld as it cooks.
3. Sprinkle half of your shredded cheddar cheese over the meat and pierogi layer.
4. Mix together the sour cream, heavy cream, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This creamy mix is what makes the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole irresistibly smooth.
5. Pour half of this creamy blend over the first layer in the crockpot, spreading gently with a spoon.
6. Repeat the layering with the remaining pierogies, sausage, onions, cheese, and cream mixture.
7. Cover your slow cooker with the lid, and set it to low. In my experience, this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole takes exactly 3 to 4 hours on low to reach that perfect soft, melty, and savory finish.
8. Your home will fill with such a wonderful aroma — a mix of melted cheese, smoky sausage, and buttery pierogies — that everyone will be drawn to the kitchen!
9. Once cooked, let the Crockpot Pierogi Casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps set everything and makes scooping easier.
10. Garnish with fresh chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Here’s a helpful tip for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole success: Avoid stirring too much during cooking to keep your layers intact and allow flavors to meld beautifully. If your slow cooker runs hot, keep an eye closely after 3 hours to prevent overcooking.
For a different twist, I’ve tested adding mushrooms or swapping sausage for bacon—both comforting and cozy variations worth trying.
While your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole is cooking, check out this recipe for Crock Pot Pierogi and Kielbasa Casserole – The Country Cook to see how others infuse similar flavors with a bit of a twist!
Serving & Presentation
When it’s time to enjoy your Crockpot Pierogi Casserole, presentation can make the moment feel extra special without extra fuss.
Serve this slow cooker pierogi casserole directly from the crockpot, scooping generous portions onto warm plates.
Pair it with a bright side salad or roasted vegetables to balance the rich, creamy layers.
This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole is perfect for casual family dinners or potlucks where comfort food shines. People always smile when I serve this dish at gatherings, often asking for the recipe or second helpings.
For leftovers, it reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave. You can even transform the next day’s serving into individual skillet portions topped with a fried egg—another easy twist I’ve enjoyed!
If you’re curious about seasonal takes, I’ve swapped the traditional cheddar for smoked gouda and added caramelized onions in fall versions with rave reviews.
This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole creates the sweetest moments at family dinners and pairs wonderfully with other cozy dishes. For more inspiration, check out my Sweet Potato Casserole – Deliciously Easy for side ideas.
FAQs
- Can I make this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare all layers in the crockpot insert the night before, keep it covered in the fridge, and cook fresh the next day. This makes dinner prep super smooth. - What if I don’t have smoked sausage for my Crockpot Pierogi Casserole?
No worries—kielbasa or even breakfast sausage are tasty substitutes. For a vegetarian version, you might try plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms. - How do I know when my Crockpot Pierogi Casserole is perfectly done?
Your casserole should be bubbling around the edges, the cheese melted fully, and the pierogies soft but not mushy. The aroma alone is a great sign it’s ready! - Can I add veggies to my Crockpot Pierogi Casserole?
Definitely! Sautéed onions and peppers work well. You can find more combo ideas from community favorites like over on Sausage and pierogi casserole cooking tips needed. - Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
If you find gluten-free pierogies, this recipe stays almost the same. Be sure your sausage choice and other ingredients don’t contain gluten. - How long can I keep leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat gently for best texture. - Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Here’s a helpful Instant Pot Pierogi Casserole – 365 Days of Slow Cooking and … for a quicker version with similar flavors.
Why This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Will Become Your New Favorite
This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole truly reflects everything I stand for—simplicity, warmth, and meals that invite connection around the table. It’s the kind of recipe that makes busy evenings feel cozy and special without complex techniques.
Here are my Crockpot Pierogi Casserole success tips:
1. Keep your layering simple and intact for the best texture.
2. Use quality smoked sausage—it lifts the whole dish.
3. Don’t rush the cooking time; slow and steady brings melty magic.
I’ve also loved trying versions with spinach added for a green boost, swapping cheddar for mozzarella for a milder cheese pull, and making a classic potato cheese pierogi casserole with just cream and cheese layered in.
The version with sausage earns the most smiles at my table, but I’m confident you’ll find your favorite too!
I encourage you to add this Crockpot Pierogi Casserole recipe to your repertoire. You’ll create delicious moments filled with comfort, connection, and joy.
Please share your delicious results with me—I’d love to hear how your family falls in love with this easy pierogi casserole recipe!
If you want more classic comfort inspiration, dive into my Crockpot Potato Soup or my festive Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole recipes.
Let’s keep creating beautiful, satisfying meals in our kitchens!
Crockpot Pierogi Casserole
This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish featuring layers of tender pierogies, creamy cheese, and savory sautéed onions, slow-cooked to perfection for a hearty family meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 (16 oz) package frozen pierogies (potato and cheese)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté the sliced onion until caramelized, about 10 minutes.
- Spray the crockpot with non-stick cooking spray.
- Layer half of the frozen pierogies evenly in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Spread half of the caramelized onions over the pierogies.
- Spread half of the sour cream and sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the onions.
- Repeat layering with the remaining pierogies, onions, sour cream, and cheese.
- Pour milk evenly over the top layers to add creaminess.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until pierogies are tender and cheese is melted.
- Garnish with chopped chives or parsley before serving, if desired.
Notes
For extra flavor, add cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms between layers, or serve with a side of sour cream for dipping.