Description
This Crock Pot Pierogi Casserole with Beef Kielbasa is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. It combines tender pierogi, savory kielbasa, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker.
Ingredients
Scale
- 500g (1lb 2oz) Frozen Potato‑and‑Cheese Pierogi: Use for a classic base; reserve half for topping.
- 300g (10.5oz) Beef Kielbasa: Sliced into ½-inch rounds, dusted with smoked paprika.
- 1 Large Onion (≈150g / 5oz): Diced for aromatic flavor.
- 2 Cloves Garlic: Minced for savory notes.
- 1 Red Bell Pepper (≈120g / 4oz): Diced for sweetness and color.
- 240ml (1cup) Low‑Sodium Vegetable Broth: Provides liquid base; control salt level.
- 240ml (1cup) Heavy Cream: Creates a rich sauce.
- 200g (7oz) Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Shredded for cheesy flavor; reserve some for topping.
- 2tbsp (30ml) Olive Oil: For sautéing.
- 1tsp (5ml) Dried Thyme: Adds earthy aroma.
- ½tsp (2.5ml) Smoked Paprika: Adds smoky depth.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- 1tbsp (15ml) Lemon Juice: Brightens flavors.
- Fresh Dill: For garnish.
Instructions
- Sear Kielbasa: Brown sliced kielbasa in olive oil for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Sauté Aromatics: Sauté diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened.
- Spice & Deglaze: Add smoked paprika, thyme, salt, pepper, and vegetable broth; deglaze the pan.
- Layer Crock Pot: Layer vegetables, half the pierogi, kielbasa, and remaining pierogi in a crock pot.
- Creamify & Cook: Stir in heavy cream and half the cheddar cheese; cook on LOW for 4 hours or HIGH for 2 hours.
- Melt & Rest: Sprinkle reserved cheddar on top during the last 15 minutes; rest for 10 minutes.
- Plate & Garnish: Serve with sauce, dill, and lemon juice.
Notes
For a richer flavor, sear the kielbasa and sauté the vegetables before adding them to the crock pot. Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Polish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
