Slow Cooker Kielbasa and Pierogies
This easy slow cooker kielbasa and pierogies recipe is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights, game-day gatherings, and cozy family dinners. Made with just 5 simple ingredients, this hearty crockpot meal combines savory kielbasa, tender potato pierogies, tangy sauerkraut, sweet onion, and buttery goodness.
Everything cooks together in one pot, allowing the kielbasa to infuse the pierogies and sauerkraut with plenty of savory flavor. There is no complicated preparation and no extra cooking liquid needed, making this an easy dump-and-go slow cooker dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only 5 ingredients: A short ingredient list makes this recipe simple and budget-friendly.
- Easy slow cooker meal: Let the crockpot do most of the work while you take care of other things.
- Hearty and satisfying: Kielbasa and potato pierogies make this a filling comfort food dinner.
- One-pot cleanup: Everything cooks in the slow cooker, which means fewer dishes afterward.
- Perfect for gatherings: Keep it warm in the slow cooker for tailgates, potlucks, and family parties.
- Customizable: Use your favorite pierogi filling or adjust the sauerkraut to make the flavor milder or tangier.
Ingredients
- 1 pound kielbasa, sliced
- 1 package frozen pierogies, about 16 ounces
- 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
- 4 tablespoons butter, sliced or cubed
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
How to Make Slow Cooker Kielbasa and Pierogies
1. Prepare the slow cooker
Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with butter or cooking spray if desired. This makes cleanup easier.
2. Add the kielbasa and onion
Spread the sliced kielbasa across the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the thinly sliced onion over the sausage.
3. Add the sauerkraut
Spread the drained sauerkraut evenly over the kielbasa and onions.
4. Add the frozen pierogies
Place the frozen pierogies on top of the sauerkraut, arranging them as evenly as possible. Add the butter pieces over the top.
5. Slow cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours, or until the pierogies are tender and the onions are soft. There is no need to add additional liquid.
6. Stir and serve
Gently stir everything together before serving so the buttery sauerkraut and flavorful kielbasa juices coat the pierogies. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Helpful Tips
Brown the kielbasa for extra flavor:
For a deeper, slightly roasted flavor, quickly brown the sliced kielbasa in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot.
Adjust the sauerkraut:
If you prefer a milder flavor, rinse the sauerkraut briefly and drain it well. For a stronger tangy flavor, simply drain it and add it directly to the slow cooker.
Use your favorite pierogies:
Potato and cheese, cheddar potato, classic potato, and onion pierogies all work well. Frozen pierogies can go directly into the slow cooker.
Don’t overcook the pierogies:
For the best texture, check them around the 4-hour mark. Slow cookers vary, so avoid cooking much beyond 5 hours if the pierogies are already tender.
Perfect for a tailgate:
Once cooked, switch the slow cooker to the WARM setting. Give the mixture an occasional gentle stir so the butter, sausage, sauerkraut, and pierogies stay evenly distributed.
What to Serve With Kielbasa and Pierogies
This hearty crockpot dinner pairs well with simple sides such as:
- Crisp cucumber salad
- Steamed green beans
- Roasted cabbage
- Baked beans
- Kettle chips
- Dill pickles
- A simple green salad
For serving, try yellow mustard, sour cream, or a little extra melted butter.
