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Pierogi Casserole Recipe

If you love comfort food that warms your soul, this Pierogi Casserole Recipe is an absolute game-changer. It’s like all the best parts of pierogi—those soft, pillowy dumplings filled with creamy potatoes—layered into a bubbly, cheesy casserole that’s both hearty and irresistibly cheesy. I love how this recipe takes frozen pierogi, which are super convenient, and turns them into a real crowd-pleaser, perfect for those cozy nights when you want a fuss-free but satisfying dinner.

What makes this Pierogi Casserole Recipe really stand out is how easy it comes together and the mix of textures and flavors—from the smoky kielbasa to the fresh spinach and gooey cheddar topping. Whether you’re feeding a family or want a simple meal prep option, this casserole works beautifully. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become one of your go-to dishes for casual get-togethers or weeknight dinners.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Prep: Uses frozen pierogi and simple pantry staples, so you can whip it up any night without stress.
  • Comfort in Every Bite: That creamy cheese and kielbasa combo makes it an all-in-one, filling meal your whole family will enjoy.
  • Customizable Layers: You can switch up the fillings or cheeses to make it your own version of this Pierogi Casserole Recipe.
  • Great for Leftovers: It reheats beautifully, so making extra means easy lunches or dinners later in the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together in such a satisfying way. The blend of cheeses with spinach and kielbasa brings balance to the dish, while using pre-made pierogi keeps things quick. When shopping, grabbing a good quality smoked kielbasa really amps up the flavor here.

  • Extra-virgin olive oil: Divided, so you use some for greasing and some for drizzling, adding moisture and flavor.
  • Potato pierogi: Frozen works perfectly, making prep a breeze—you can use your favorite flavor for a twist.
  • Cheddar cheese soup or cream of mushroom soup: Adds creaminess and ties all the layers together.
  • Cheddar cheese: Shredded; part folded into the layers and part sprinkled on top for that melty, golden crust.
  • Farmer’s cheese or ricotta: Crumbled for a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the cheddar.
  • Spinach: Fresh or frozen, just make sure it’s well-drained to avoid soggy casserole.
  • Yellow onion: Finely chopped or thinly sliced adds subtle sweetness.
  • Smoked kielbasa sausage: Thinly sliced; gives a smoky, savory bite that pairs perfectly with the cheese and pierogi.
  • Kosher salt: To season and enhance all those layers of flavors.
  • Thinly sliced scallions: For a fresh, mildly sharp garnish that brightens each serving.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love making this Pierogi Casserole Recipe my own by tweaking ingredients depending on what I have on hand. You can easily switch up the type of cheese or sausage—or even add mushrooms for an earthy touch. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

  • Meat-Free Version: Swap kielbasa for sautéed mushrooms and extra spinach for a vegetarian casserole that’s just as hearty.
  • Cheese Swap: Try swapping cheddar for pepper jack or gouda for a different cheesy twist—I’ve caught friends raving over smoked gouda versions!
  • Extra Veggies: Feel free to add diced bell peppers or caramelized onions to boost flavor and nutrition.

How to Make Pierogi Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Get Your Oven Ready & Prepare the Base

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). I like to grease my baking dish with about half of the olive oil, which helps keep the casserole from sticking and adds a subtle richness. Then, lay out 12 potato pierogi in a single layer on the bottom—this base layer starts building the comforting texture that makes this dish special.

Step 2: Mix Cheese Soup and Layer Flavors

While the oven warms up, mix your canned cheddar cheese soup (or cream of mushroom) with three-quarters of the shredded cheddar cheese in a bowl. This sauce is what binds everything together and keeps the pierogi nice and creamy. Pour half of this mixture evenly over your pierogi, then crumble half of the farmer’s cheese, sprinkle half the spinach, onion, and kielbasa slices, and don’t forget a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.

Step 3: Layer It Again and Drizzle with Oil

Repeat the layering with the remaining pierogi, sauce, farmer’s cheese, spinach, onion, and sausage. Finish by topping with the rest of the cheddar cheese, seasoning lightly with salt, and drizzling the remaining olive oil on top. This last drizzle helps achieve that golden finish and keeps the top from drying out.

Step 4: Bake and Broil to Perfection

Pop the casserole in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes until it’s bubbly and cooked through. Here’s a trick I learned: When it’s done baking, switch your oven to broil and broil the top for 2-3 minutes, but watch it closely. This step crisps up the cheddar on top and gives it an irresistible golden crust that my family absolutely goes crazy for.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle thinly sliced scallions over the top. They add just the right touch of freshness and a little crunch that balances all the richness.

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Pro Tips for Making Pierogi Casserole Recipe

  • Don’t Skip the Broil: That quick broil transforms the casserole from good to unforgettable with a crispy, cheesy top.
  • Drain Spinach Well: Excess moisture can make the casserole soggy—squeeze out as much liquid as you can.
  • Use Quality Sausage: Smoked kielbasa brings a big flavor punch; trust me, the whole dish tastes better with it.
  • Layer Evenly: Spreading ingredients evenly ensures every bite is balanced and cheesy all the way through.

How to Serve Pierogi Casserole Recipe

Pierogi Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

I always top this casserole with thinly sliced scallions because they add the perfect pop of color and a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that cuts through all the rich cheese and sausage. Sometimes I like to add a dollop of sour cream on the side for an extra tangy bite that everyone appreciates.

Side Dishes

To round out the meal, I usually serve this with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed green beans also pair beautifully with this casserole for a hearty yet wholesome dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday gatherings or potlucks, I like to bake this Pierogi Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins—everyone gets their own portion with a crispy top, which looks super inviting and is easy to serve. Another fun idea is layering in colorful veggies like roasted red peppers to brighten up each slice when served.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and they usually last 3-4 days. The casserole keeps its flavor and texture surprisingly well, making it an ideal lunch or second dinner. When you reheat, it’s best to cover it loosely with foil to avoid drying out.

Freezing

I’ve successfully frozen this casserole by baking it first, letting it cool completely, and then wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat in the oven until warmed through—it tastes almost as fresh as the day you made it.

Reheating

To reheat, I preheat the oven to 350°F and warm individual portions covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes. Taking a few minutes under the broiler at the end revives that crispy top and brings the casserole back to its delicious, just-baked glory.

FAQs

  1. Can I use other types of pierogi in this Pierogi Casserole Recipe?

    Absolutely! While potato pierogi are classic and comforting, you can swap in cheese, sauerkraut, or meat-filled pierogi depending on your taste preferences. Just keep in mind that different fillings might affect the overall flavor and texture slightly, but the casserole will still be delicious.

  2. Do I have to use cheddar cheese soup or can I make a homemade sauce?

    You can definitely make your own homemade cheese sauce if you prefer! A simple roux-based cheese sauce with sharp cheddar, cream, and seasonings will work beautifully and may even elevate the casserole. Using canned soup just keeps it easy and convenient.

  3. Is this Pierogi Casserole Recipe suitable for freezing before baking?

    Yes! You can assemble the casserole fully and freeze it before baking. Just wrap it tightly, and when you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. This makes for a fantastic make-ahead meal.

  4. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

    Simply omit the kielbasa and add extra veggies or mushrooms for savory depth. You can also use a vegetarian cheese soup or homemade cheese sauce to avoid animal products. The spinach and cheeses keep it hearty and filling.

  5. What are good side dishes to serve with pierogi casserole?

    I like pairing the casserole with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted Brussels sprouts. These sides help balance the richness of the casserole and add a nice variety of textures.

Final Thoughts

This Pierogi Casserole Recipe has become one of my favorite comfort meals because it’s so simple yet so flavorful, and it never fails to bring smiles around the dinner table. If you’re looking for a hearty dish that feels like a warm hug in food form, trust me on this one—you’ll want to keep this recipe in your rotation. Give it a try and watch how quickly it disappears; it’s a guaranteed winner every single time.

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Pierogi Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 57 reviews
  • Author: Paula
  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 45 mins
  • Total Time: 1 hr
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Eastern European

Description

This comforting Pierogi Casserole layers tender potato pierogi with savory kielbasa, creamy cheeses, spinach, and onion, all baked in a luscious cheddar cheese soup sauce. Topped with melted cheddar and a crispy broiled crust, it makes for a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.


Ingredients

Base and Sauce

  • 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • 2 lb. potato pierogi (or your favorite frozen pierogi flavor), divided
  • 1 (10.5-oz.) can cheddar cheese soup or cream of mushroom soup

Cheese and Vegetables

  • 8 oz. cheddar, shredded, divided
  • 15 oz. farmer’s cheese or ricotta, divided
  • 1 (5-oz.) pkg. fresh or frozen spinach, thawed, drained, divided
  • 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely chopped or thinly sliced, divided

Meat

  • 1 (12-oz.) pkg. smoked kielbasa sausage, thinly sliced, divided

Seasoning and Garnish

  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Thinly sliced scallions, for serving


Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare the dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 13″ x 9″ or 11″ x 7″ baking dish with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. Arrange 12 pierogi evenly to cover the bottom of the prepared baking dish, forming the base layer.
  2. Mix soup and start layering: In a medium bowl, combine the cheddar cheese soup with three-quarters of the shredded cheddar cheese until well mixed. Pour half of this creamy mixture evenly over the pierogi layer. Next, crumble half of the farmer’s cheese over the sauce-covered pierogi. Sprinkle half of the drained spinach, half of the finely chopped onion, and half of the sliced kielbasa evenly across the dish. Season with kosher salt to taste to enhance flavors.
  3. Add the second layer: Repeat the layering by arranging the remaining pierogi over the previous toppings. Pour the remaining half of the soup and cheddar mixture over this second layer. Crumble and spread the remaining farmer’s cheese, followed by the remaining spinach, onion, and kielbasa slices. Sprinkle with salt again and finally top everything with the remaining one-quarter of shredded cheddar cheese. Drizzle the last tablespoon of olive oil on top to add richness and help with browning.
  4. Bake the casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the dish is heated through and bubbling around the edges, ensuring all layers meld together and the flavors develop beautifully.
  5. Broil for a crispy top: Switch your oven to broil and carefully place the casserole under the broiler. Watch closely and broil for about 3 minutes, or until the top becomes golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with thinly sliced scallions for a fresh, mild onion flavor and an appealing presentation.

Notes

  • You can substitute the potato pierogi with cheese or meat-filled varieties as preferred.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the kielbasa and add mushrooms or extra spinach.
  • If using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
  • Feel free to swap the cheddar cheese soup for cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.
  • Watch the casserole closely while broiling to prevent burning the topping.
  • Serve with a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of casserole
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

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