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Slow Cooker Pierogies and Kielbasa: Easy Garlic Butter Comfort Food
If you're looking for a comforting dinner that requires very little effort, this slow cooker pierogies and kielbasa recipe is a wonderful choice. Tender potato-filled pierogies, smoky sausage, sweet onions, and buttery garlic sauce come together in one delicious meal.
This easy crockpot dinner uses simple ingredients and minimal preparation, making it perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or cozy weekends.
With every bite, you get soft, flavorful pierogies and savory slices of kielbasa coated in a rich garlic butter sauce.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Easy preparation: Just a few minutes of hands-on work.
- Comforting flavors: Smoky sausage, buttery pierogies, and garlic.
- Simple ingredients: Made with convenient grocery-store staples.
- Family-friendly: A satisfying dinner everyone can enjoy.
- Minimal cleanup: Everything cooks in one slow cooker.
- Customizable: Add vegetables, cheese, or your favorite seasonings.
Ingredients
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
- 2 packages (16 ounces each) frozen potato and cheese pierogies
- 14 ounces fully cooked kielbasa sausage, sliced into thick rounds
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, optional
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, optional
How to Make Slow Cooker Pierogies and Kielbasa
Step 1: Prepare the Kielbasa
Slice the fully cooked kielbasa into rounds approximately 1/2 inch thick.
For extra flavor, heat the optional olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the sausage slices for 2–3 minutes per side.
This step is optional, but it gives the kielbasa a delicious golden finish.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt.
Stir until well mixed.
Step 3: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the inside of a 5–6-quart slow cooker with butter or nonstick cooking spray.
Arrange half of the frozen pierogies in the bottom.
Add half of the sliced kielbasa and onions.
Repeat with the remaining pierogies, sausage, and onions.
Step 4: Add the Sauce and Broth
Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the ingredients.
Add the chicken broth around the edges of the slow cooker.
Gently move the ingredients with a spoon to help distribute the liquid without breaking the pierogies.
Step 5: Cook Until Tender
Cover and cook on LOW for approximately 2–3 hours, or until the pierogies are heated through and tender.
Cooking times vary depending on the slow cooker and the brand of pierogies. Follow the package instructions for the pierogies and ensure the center of the dish is thoroughly heated.
Avoid cooking much longer than necessary, as the pierogies can become overly soft.
Step 6: Stir Carefully
Once the pierogies are tender, gently stir to coat them with the garlic butter sauce.
Be careful not to break the dumplings.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the finished dish with chopped fresh parsley.
Serve warm with a spoonful of the buttery cooking sauce over each portion.
Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Pierogies
Use fully cooked kielbasa: This keeps the preparation simple and reduces cooking time.
Don't overcook: Pierogies can become mushy if left in the slow cooker too long.
Use a large enough cooker: A 5–6-quart slow cooker provides space for even cooking.
Brown the sausage: A quick sear adds extra savory flavor.
Stir gently: Pierogies are delicate after cooking.
Adjust the broth: Use slightly less for a buttery coating or a little more for a saucier dish.
Delicious Recipe Variations
Cheesy Pierogies and Kielbasa
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the dish during the final 15–20 minutes of cooking. Cover until melted.
Creamy Ranch Pierogies
Add 2 tablespoons of ranch seasoning and 1/3 cup sour cream after cooking for a creamy, tangy variation.
Pierogies With Cabbage
Add 2 cups of thinly sliced cabbage along with the onions for a classic Eastern European-inspired combination.
Spicy Kielbasa Pierogies
Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or use a spicy smoked sausage for a little extra heat.
Mushroom and Onion Pierogies
Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms for a savory vegetable addition.
What to Serve With Pierogies and Kielbasa
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with simple vegetables and fresh sides.
- Steamed green beans
- Roasted broccoli
- Fresh cucumber salad
- Sautéed cabbage
- Applesauce
- Garden salad
- Roasted carrots
- Sour cream for dipping
For a comforting family dinner, serve the pierogies and kielbasa with sautéed cabbage and a spoonful of sour cream.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Refrigerator
Transfer leftovers to airtight containers and refrigerate within two hours.
Store at 40°F (4°C) or below and enjoy within 3–4 days.
Freezer
You can freeze cooked leftovers in freezer-safe containers for approximately 1–2 months for best quality.
Keep in mind that the texture of the pierogies may soften after freezing and thawing.
Reheating
Reheat in a covered skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or butter.
Alternatively, microwave individual portions until thoroughly heated.
For food safety, reheat leftovers to 165°F (74°C).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put frozen pierogies directly in the slow cooker?
Many frozen pierogies can be cooked without thawing, but check the manufacturer's directions and your slow cooker's guidance. Ensure they heat thoroughly and do not remain at unsafe temperatures for extended periods.
What type of kielbasa works best?
Fully cooked smoked kielbasa is an excellent choice because it adds rich flavor and requires minimal preparation.
Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen?
Yes, but fresh pierogies may cook more quickly. Check them earlier to prevent overcooking.
Do I need to add broth?
A small amount of broth helps distribute the garlic butter sauce and provides moisture during cooking.
Can I make this recipe without kielbasa?
Absolutely. Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms, onions, or other vegetables for a meatless variation.
Why are my pierogies falling apart?
They may have cooked too long or been stirred too vigorously. Cook just until tender and handle them gently.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can slice the sausage, chop the onions, and mix the seasonings in advance. Refrigerate the prepared ingredients and assemble the dish shortly before cooking.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
- Cooking Time: Approximately 2–3 hours
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
Final Thoughts
Slow cooker pierogies and kielbasa is a comforting dinner that brings together tender dumplings, smoky sausage, and rich garlic butter flavor.
With minimal preparation and simple ingredients, this recipe makes a wonderful option for busy evenings or relaxed family meals.
Whether you enjoy it with sautéed cabbage, fresh vegetables, or a spoonful of sour cream, it's a delicious dish worth adding to your dinner rotation.
Love easy crockpot meals? Save this pierogies and kielbasa recipe for later and share your favorite variation in the comments!