Slow Cooker Pierogi and Sausage
Description
Slow Cooker Pierogi and Sausage is a hearty, comforting meal that combines tender potato-and-cheese pierogies with smoky sausage in a rich, creamy sauce. This easy crockpot recipe requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, potlucks, or cozy weekends at home. As the ingredients slowly cook together, the pierogies become soft and flavorful while the sausage adds a savory, satisfying bite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 package (32 oz) frozen potato and cheese pierogies
- 14 oz smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into rounds
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Sliced green onions
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or a small amount of oil.
Step 2: Add Ingredients
Place the frozen pierogies, sliced sausage, and onions into the slow cooker.
Step 3: Season
Sprinkle garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika evenly over the ingredients.
Step 4: Add Liquid
Pour the chicken broth over everything.
Step 5: Cook
Cover and cook on:
- Low for 4–5 hours, or
- High for 2–3 hours
Step 6: Make It Creamy
About 30 minutes before serving, add the cubed cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently until the cheeses melt and create a creamy sauce.
Step 7: Serve
Spoon into bowls and garnish with parsley, green onions, extra cheese, or sour cream if desired.
Notes
- Frozen pierogies can be added directly without thawing.
- Kielbasa provides the best smoky flavor, but turkey sausage or chicken sausage also work well.
- For extra vegetables, add sliced bell peppers or mushrooms.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a little extra broth before serving.
Tips for Success
✔ Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
✔ Stir gently to avoid breaking the pierogies.
✔ Add cheese near the end of cooking to prevent separation.
✔ For a richer flavor, replace half of the broth with heavy cream.
✔ Brown the sausage in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker for deeper flavor.
Servings
- Makes: 6 servings
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4–5 hours on Low
- Total Time: Approximately 5 hours
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Approximate values:
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 980mg
Benefits
- Provides a good source of protein from sausage and cheese.
- Rich in carbohydrates for lasting energy.
- Easy one-pot meal with minimal cleanup.
- Family-friendly comfort food suitable for busy schedules.
- Can be customized with vegetables for added nutrients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen?
Yes. Fresh pierogies work well, but reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent overcooking.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Q: What sausage works best?
Smoked kielbasa is the traditional choice, but smoked turkey sausage, beef sausage, or chicken sausage are excellent alternatives.
Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth or milk if the sauce has thickened.
Q: Can I make it spicy?
Yes. Add crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or spicy smoked sausage for extra heat.