Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

Ingredients

Three packages of Mrs. T’s Cheddar Pierogies
Four cups of chicken broth
One 8-ounce block of cream cheese
One cup of shredded cheddar cheese
One pound of kielbasa sliced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Combining Ingredients in Crockpot: In a 4-6 quart crockpot, combine three cups of the chicken broth, the frozen pierogies, sliced kielbasa, and shredded cheddar cheese. Ensure that the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Cooking the Casserole: Set the crockpot to cook on high for 3-4 hours, or alternatively, on low for 6 hours. This long cooking time allows the flavors to fully develop and meld together, resulting in a cohesive and flavorful dish.
Preparing Cream Cheese Mixture: Approximately 30 minutes before the end of the cooking time, warm the block of cream cheese with the remaining one cup of chicken broth. This can be done either in a microwave or on a stovetop. Once warmed, whisk the mixture until it achieves a smooth consistency.
Final Assembly: Pour the smooth cream cheese mixture into the crockpot, stirring well to integrate. Sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the flavors to bind.
Serving: Serve the casserole hot, ideally garnished with sliced green onions if desired, to add both color and a mild, oniony crunch that complements the rich flavors of the dish.

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa

History of Pierogi and Kielbasa

Pierogi and kielbasa are traditional foods deeply rooted in Eastern European cuisine, particularly in Poland. Pierogi, which are filled dumplings, have been a staple of Polish cooking for centuries, originating as peasant food. They were traditionally made with basic ingredients like flour, potatoes, and cheese, and over time, variations have evolved using meat, mushrooms, and fruits. Kielbasa, a type of smoked sausage, has also been a key part of Polish culture, historically made in rural households from pork or a mix of meats. Together, pierogi and kielbasa represent comfort food for many Eastern Europeans and have become popular in North America, often making appearances at family gatherings, holidays, and community dinners.

Benefits of Crockpot Pierogi Casserole

1. Time-Saving and Convenient:
   This dish is made in a slow cooker, allowing for a “set it and forget it” method. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. The ingredients are easy to find, and the preparation is minimal.
2. Comfort Food at Its Best:
   Combining creamy pierogi and savory kielbasa creates a dish that’s rich and comforting, ideal for cold days or when you’re craving something hearty. The cheese and creaminess from the sour cream add a luxurious texture that’s hard to resist.
3. Protein-Rich:
   Kielbasa provides a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body maintenance. The casserole also contains dairy (cheese and sour cream), which adds to its protein content, supporting satiety and keeping you full longer.
4. Customizable for Added Nutrition:
   You can easily add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to boost the fiber, vitamins, and minerals in this dish. This makes the casserole more balanced and nutritious without compromising its hearty nature.
5. Family-Friendly:
   This dish is typically a hit with both kids and adults, thanks to its mild, savory flavors. It’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners, where everyone can dig into a filling, crowd-pleasing meal.
6. Energy-Dense for Active Lifestyles:
   With its combination of carbohydrates from the pierogi and fat from the cheese and sausage, this casserole provides a high-energy meal. It’s great for people who need a filling, calorie-dense meal after physical activity or those with higher energy needs.
7. Versatile Ingredients:
   The ingredients, such as kielbasa and pierogi, are widely available and often affordable. You can easily substitute variations of pierogi (such as those filled with meat or sauerkraut) or experiment with different sausages like turkey kielbasa for a lighter version.

Nutritional Benefits of the Key Ingredients

• Pierogi (Potato and Cheese): Rich in carbohydrates, which provide energy. The cheese adds calcium, supporting bone health.
• Kielbasa: High in protein, aiding in muscle maintenance and repair. Also rich in iron and B vitamins, which support energy production.
• Cheese: A good source of calcium, essential for bone health, and provides fats that help absorb fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).
• Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and provides calcium, along with probiotics if using a live-culture version.

By making a few tweaks, such as adding vegetables or using lower-fat versions of the ingredients, you can increase the health benefits of this comforting casserole.

This dish combines the comforting flavors of pierogi with the savory goodness of kielbasa in a convenient, slow-cooked format. There are several benefits to this hearty meal:

• Time-saving: Cooking everything in a crockpot allows you to focus on other tasks while the meal cooks itself.
• High in protein: Kielbasa offers a good amount of protein, while the dairy in pierogi (often filled with cheese or potatoes) also contributes some.
• Comforting and filling: The combination of potatoes, cheese, and sausage creates a satisfying meal perfect for cold days.
• Customizable: You can add vegetables like onions, peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving Estimate)

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content per serving for Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa. This is based on a recipe serving 6 people.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving):

• Calories: 550-600 kcal
• Protein: 17-20g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g
• Sugars: 4-6g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Fat: 30-35g
• Saturated Fat: 12-15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 70-90mg
• Sodium: 900-1200mg
• Calcium: 15-20% of daily recommended intake
• Iron: 8-10% of daily recommended intake

Key Points:

• High in protein due to the kielbasa and cheese.
• High in fat, especially saturated fat from the kielbasa, cheese, and sour cream.
• Carbohydrates come from the pierogi (potato and dough), making this a filling dish.
• Sodium content is quite high due to the kielbasa, canned soup, and cheese. If you’re watching sodium intake, using low-sodium versions of the soup and sausage can help.

This casserole provides a filling, energy-dense meal, though it’s best enjoyed in moderation due to the higher fat and sodium levels. To balance it out, consider pairing it with a light green salad or steamed veggies.

• Calories: 500-600 kcal
• Protein: 15-20g
• Carbohydrates: 40-50g
• Fats: 25-30g
• Fiber: 2-4g
• Sodium: 800-1000mg

For the Lovers of Rich, Comforting Food

This Crockpot Pierogi Casserole is perfect for anyone who craves rich, hearty meals. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Polish cuisine or just love a comforting, savory dish, this recipe is a hit with families, especially during colder months. Its combination of creamy, cheesy pierogi and the smoky, meaty flavor of kielbasa makes it a crowd-pleaser at potlucks, family dinners, and casual get-togethers.

Formation of the Dish

• 1 lb kielbasa, sliced
• 1 package (16 oz) frozen pierogi (potato and cheese filling)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 cup sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor

Instructions:

1. Prep the Ingredients: Start by slicing the kielbasa and dicing the onion. If you’re adding vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers, sauté them in a little oil until soft.
2. Layer in the Crockpot: In your crockpot, add a layer of frozen pierogi. Then, top with the kielbasa slices and diced onion. If you’re using extra veggies, add them now.
3. Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir until combined.
4. Pour Over: Pour the sauce mixture over the pierogi and kielbasa. Use a spoon to make sure everything is coated evenly.
5. Cook: Set your crockpot to low and cook for 3-4 hours, or until the pierogi are tender and the sauce is bubbly.
6. Add Cheese: About 15-20 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top, then close the lid to let it melt.
7. Serve: Once the cheese is melted and the casserole is heated through, serve it hot. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley if desired.

Conclusion

Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a perfect dish for lovers of comfort food, blending the heartiness of Eastern European tradition with modern convenience. The ease of preparation in a crockpot makes it an excellent go-to meal for busy families or for those who love the “set-it-and-forget-it” approach to cooking. Rich in flavor and deeply satisfying, this casserole is sure to be a hit at any table, offering both nostalgia and comfort in every bite.