Baked Pierogi Casserole: A Comforting Dish That’s Sure to Please

Craving a hearty and comforting meal that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor? Look no further than Baked Pierogi Casserole! This delightful dish features tender potato and onion pierogies, savory kielbasa sausage, creamy cream cheese, and a cheesy topping that will have your taste buds singing with joy. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering with friends and family, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So, let’s dive into the culinary goodness and discover how to make this irresistible Baked Pierogi Casserole that will leave everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients:

• 1 package (16 oz) frozen potato and onion pierogies
• 1 tablespoon water
• 7 oz kielbasa sausage, sliced
• 4 oz cream cheese (from 8-oz package), very softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup Progresso™ chicken broth (from 32-oz carton)
• 1/8 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (4 oz)
• 1/2 cup thinly diagonally sliced green onions

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking dish or casserole dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Prepare the Pierogies: In a microwave-safe bowl, place the frozen pierogies and water. Microwave uncovered on High for about 4 minutes, stirring halfway through cooking, until thawed and warm.
3. Layer the Ingredients: Arrange the thawed pierogies in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with sliced kielbasa sausage.
4. Make the Creamy Mixture: In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
5. Pour Over the Pierogies: Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the pierogies and sausage in the baking dish, making sure to coat them evenly.
6. Add the Toppings: Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, followed by the thinly sliced green onions.
7. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the Baked Pierogi Casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional green onions, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the delicious flavors of this comforting dish!

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate your favorite vegetables into the casserole, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach, for added color and nutrition.
• Use Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, Swiss, or Monterey Jack, to customize the flavor of the casserole to your liking.
• Make it Spicy: Add a kick of heat by incorporating diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the creamy mixture for a spicy twist.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

To make a keto-friendly Baked Pierogi Casserole, consider the following adjustments:

• Substitute the potato and onion pierogies with cauliflower florets or sliced zucchini for a lower carb option.
• Replace the sour cream with full-fat Greek yogurt or a keto-friendly sour cream alternative.
• Use almond flour or coconut flour as a thickener instead of chicken broth to reduce the carb content.

Low-Carb Version:

For those looking to cut carbs, try the following modifications:

• Omit the potato and onion pierogies altogether and use cauliflower gnocchi or shirataki noodles as a substitute.
• Replace the cream cheese with a combination of heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese for a lower carb creamy sauce.
• Use beef broth or vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to reduce the carb content further.

In conclusion, Baked Pierogi Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, savory sausage, and cheesy topping, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or entertaining guests, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the delicious flavors of Baked Pierogi Casserole!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen? A: Yes, you can use fresh pierogies if you prefer. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as fresh pierogies may cook faster than frozen ones.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the Baked Pierogi Casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers of the casserole? A: Yes, leftovers of the Baked Pierogi Casserole can be frozen for later enjoyment. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.

Q: Can I customize the ingredients in this casserole? A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the Baked Pierogi Casserole with your favorite ingredients, such as different types of sausage, vegetables, or cheeses, to suit your taste preferences. The possibilities are endless!

Q: Can I make this casserole vegetarian? A: Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of the Baked Pierogi Casserole by omitting the sausage and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.