Slow Cooker Pierogies and Kielbasa

This Slow Cooker Pierogies and Kielbasa recipe is a simple, hearty comfort-food dinner made with tender potato pierogies, smoky kielbasa, soft onions, butter, broth, and easy seasonings.

It is especially useful for busy weeknights because the slow cooker does most of the work. The pierogies become tender without falling apart, the kielbasa adds plenty of smoky flavor, and the onions cook down into the buttery broth for a satisfying family meal.

Serve it as-is or pair it with green beans, broccoli, cabbage, or a simple salad.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy slow cooker dinner
• Minimal prep work
• Smoky kielbasa flavor
• Tender potato pierogies
• Simple everyday ingredients
• Family-friendly comfort food
• Great for busy weeknights
• Easy to customize

Ingredients

• 2 packages frozen potato and cheddar pierogies, about 16 ounces each
• 14 ounces kielbasa or smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, optional

How to Make Slow Cooker Pierogies and Kielbasa

Step 1: Brown the Kielbasa

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the sliced kielbasa and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the edges are lightly browned.

Browning is optional, but it gives the sausage better texture and deeper flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Onion

Remove the kielbasa from the skillet and set it aside.

Add the sliced onion to the same skillet and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until slightly softened.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 3: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Lightly grease the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker.

Add half of the frozen pierogies in an even layer.

Step 4: Add Kielbasa and Onions

Scatter half of the browned kielbasa and half of the onion mixture over the pierogies.

Add the remaining pierogies, followed by the remaining kielbasa and onions.

Step 5: Season the Dish

Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried parsley, black pepper, and salt evenly over the ingredients.

Step 6: Add the Broth

Combine the chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce.

Pour the mixture around the sides of the slow cooker rather than directly over the pierogies.

Step 7: Add the Butter

Scatter the butter pieces evenly over the top.

Step 8: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours or on HIGH for 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 hours.

The pierogies are done when they are fully heated, tender, and soft around the edges but still hold their shape.

Avoid overcooking because pierogies can become too soft if left in the slow cooker for too long.

Step 9: Gently Stir

During the final 20 to 30 minutes, gently stir the pierogies, sausage, and onions so everything is evenly coated in the buttery broth.

Step 10: Serve

Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Pierogies

• Use frozen pierogies: There is no need to thaw or boil them first.
• Do not overcook: Pierogies can become overly soft if cooked too long.
• Brown the sausage first: This adds better color and more savory flavor.
• Use sliced onions: They soften beautifully and add sweetness to the broth.
• Stir gently: Pierogies are delicate once cooked.
• Check salt near the end: Kielbasa and broth can already be salty.

Easy Variations

Cheesy Pierogies and Kielbasa

Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese over the top during the final 20 minutes of cooking.

Creamy Pierogi Version

Stir in 4 ounces of softened cream cheese during the final 30 minutes for a richer sauce.

Cabbage and Kielbasa Pierogies

Add 3 cups thinly sliced cabbage during the final 1 to 1 1/2 hours of cooking.

Mushroom Version

Add 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms with the onions for extra savory flavor.

Spicy Kielbasa Pierogies

Add crushed red pepper flakes and use spicy smoked sausage.

Bacon Pierogies

Finish the dish with cooked crumbled bacon for extra smoky flavor.

What to Serve with Pierogies and Kielbasa

• Green beans
• Roasted broccoli
• Steamed cabbage
• Coleslaw
• Garden salad
• Roasted Brussels sprouts
• Pickles
• Crusty bread

Make-Ahead Instructions

The kielbasa and onions can be browned up to 2 days ahead and stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator.

When ready to cook, layer them with the frozen pierogies and remaining ingredients in the slow cooker.

For the best texture, do not assemble the entire slow cooker overnight because frozen pierogies may soften as they thaw.

Storage

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freezing cooked pierogies is possible, but their texture may become softer after thawing.

If freezing, store cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a small splash of chicken broth or butter.

Individual portions can also be reheated in the microwave until hot throughout.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 to 4 hours on LOW
• Total Time: About 3 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 6 to 8
• Course: Main Dish
• Cuisine: American
• Calories: Approximately 520 calories per serving

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put frozen pierogies directly in the slow cooker?

Yes. Frozen pierogies can go directly into the slow cooker without thawing or boiling first.

What kielbasa works best?

Polish-style smoked kielbasa works very well, but any fully cooked smoked sausage can be used.

Why did my pierogies fall apart?

They were likely cooked too long or stirred too aggressively. Check them near the lower end of the cooking time and stir gently.

Can I add cheese?

Yes. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend can be added near the end of cooking.

Can I use different pierogi flavors?

Yes. Potato and cheddar, potato and onion, sauerkraut, or loaded baked potato pierogies can all work well.

Can I make this creamy?

Yes. Add cream cheese, sour cream, or a small amount of heavy cream near the end of cooking.

Do I have to brown the kielbasa?

No. You can add it directly to the slow cooker, but browning improves the flavor and texture.

Can I cook this on HIGH?

Yes. Cook on HIGH for about 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 hours, checking early so the pierogies do not become too soft.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Pierogies and Kielbasa recipe combines tender pierogies, smoky sausage, soft onions, butter, and a savory broth in an easy crockpot dinner that requires very little active cooking.

It is simple enough for busy weeknights but hearty enough for a relaxed family dinner. Keep the cooking time controlled, stir gently, and serve warm for the best texture and flavor.