Slow Cooker Cheesy Sausage & Pierogi Casserole

Slow Cooker Cheesy Sausage & Pierogi Casserole

Description

Slow Cooker Cheesy Sausage & Pierogi Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s hearty, creamy, and packed with rich flavour. This easy crockpot dinner combines tender potato and cheese pierogies, smoky sausage, sweet onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and a creamy seasoned sauce that slowly cooks into a rich, irresistible casserole. As everything simmers together, the pierogies become soft and fluffy while the sausage infuses the dish with savoury goodness. The melted cheese and creamy sauce coat every bite, creating a warm, satisfying meal the whole family will love. Best of all, this recipe requires minimal preparation—simply layer the ingredients, pour over the sauce, and let the slow cooker do all the work. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, game days, or cosy weekends when you want a filling homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Pair it with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or warm garlic bread for a complete dinner. Leftovers reheat beautifully, making this an excellent meal-prep recipe that tastes just as delicious the next day.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

  • 2 packages (16 oz each) frozen potato and cheese pierogies
  • 14 oz smoked sausage, sliced into ½-inch rounds
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

For the Creamy Sauce

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

Optional Garnish

  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • Sliced green onions
  • Extra shredded cheddar
  • Crumbled cooked bacon

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray or butter.
  2. Spread half of the frozen pierogies evenly across the bottom of the slow cooker.
  3. Layer half of the sliced smoked sausage over the pierogies.
  4. Add half of the sliced onions and sprinkle with half of both cheeses.
  5. Repeat the layers with the remaining pierogies, sausage, onions, and cheese.
  6. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, softened cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt until smooth and creamy.
  7. Slowly pour the prepared sauce evenly over the layered casserole, making sure it reaches all areas.
  8. Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2½–3 hours, until the pierogies are tender and the cheese is fully melted.
  9. During the last 20 minutes of cooking, gently stir everything together if desired for an extra creamy texture.
  10. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
  11. Garnish with parsley, green onions, extra cheese, or crispy bacon before serving.

Tips

  • Smoked kielbasa, beef sausage, or turkey sausage all work well in this recipe.
  • For extra flavour, sauté the onions before adding them to the slow cooker.
  • Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
  • Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest, creamiest sauce.
  • Avoid overcooking, as the pierogies may become overly soft.
  • Stir gently to avoid breaking the pierogies.

Notes

  • Frozen pierogies can be used directly without thawing.
  • Cream of mushroom soup can replace cream of chicken for a different flavour.
  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze cooled portions for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.
  • Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Q&A

Can I use homemade pierogies?
Yes. Homemade pierogies work wonderfully, but handle them gently since they are often more delicate.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble all the ingredients in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Start cooking the next day.

Can I substitute another cheese?
Absolutely. Monterey Jack, Colby, Gouda, or Pepper Jack are all delicious alternatives.

What can I serve with this casserole?
A fresh green salad, steamed broccoli, roasted green beans, garlic bread, or buttered corn all pair perfectly with this rich and creamy dish.

Servings

  • Serves: 6–8

Nutrition (Approx. Per Serving)

  • Calories: 560
  • Protein: 24g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fat: 35g
  • Saturated Fat: 17g
  • Fibre: 2g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 980mg

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