Kielbasa and Pierogi Bake

Kielbasa and Pierogi Bake is one of those dishes I turn to when I need serious comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. This hearty one-dish meal combines smoky kielbasa with tender cheese pierogies in a creamy, tangy sauce that gets bubbly and golden in the oven. I love how it brings together classic Eastern European flavors in such a simple, satisfying way.

I discovered this recipe on a cold winter evening when I had a package of frozen pierogies and kielbasa in my fridge. The combination was pure magic. The creamy sauce coats every pierogi while the kielbasa adds that smoky, savory depth that makes this casserole so addictive. It’s become my go-to for weeknight dinners and casual family gatherings. This Kielbasa and Pierogi Bake requires minimal prep, comes together in under 15 minutes, and delivers maximum comfort with every cheesy, satisfying bite.

Everything You Need for This Comforting Bake

I always use good quality kielbasa for this recipe since it’s a star ingredient. Pro tip: browning the kielbasa and onions before baking adds incredible depth of flavor that you simply can’t skip.

• 1 (16 oz) package frozen potato and cheese pierogies
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 1 (14 oz) kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added color and flavor)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

My tip: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce that coats the pierogies perfectly.

How to Make This Easy Pierogi Casserole

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Set aside while you prepare the other components.

Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened and turning golden brown. The onions should be fragrant and slightly caramelized.

Step 3: Add the sliced kielbasa to the skillet with the onions. Cook for another 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kielbasa is lightly browned on the edges. This step is crucial for developing flavor in your Kielbasa and Pierogi Bake. Remove from heat.

Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream, softened cream cheese, milk, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika until completely smooth and combined. The mixture should be creamy with no lumps.

Step 5: Place the frozen pierogies directly into your prepared baking dish. No need to thaw them first. Pour the cream sauce over the pierogies and gently toss with a spoon to coat each one evenly.

Step 6: Add the cooked onions and kielbasa on top of the sauced pierogies. Mix slightly to distribute throughout, but don’t overmix or you’ll break the delicate pierogies.

Step 7: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the entire surface. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.

Step 8: Bake covered for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden. For extra crispy cheese, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.

Step 9: Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving your Kielbasa and Pierogi Bake hot.

What to Serve with Your Pierogi Bake

This rich, creamy casserole pairs perfectly with lighter, fresh sides that cut through the richness and add nutritional balance.

Crisp Green Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with tangy vinaigrette provides refreshing contrast to the creamy, cheesy casserole. The acidity helps balance the rich flavors and adds a healthy vegetable component.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts with a hint of balsamic bring earthy, slightly bitter notes that complement the smoky kielbasa beautifully. The crispy texture adds nice variety to the meal.

Tangy Sauerkraut: Traditional fermented sauerkraut is a classic pairing with kielbasa and pierogies. The tangy, probiotic-rich side cuts through the richness while staying true to Eastern European roots.

Steamed Green Beans: Simple steamed or sautéed green beans with garlic keep things light and add color to the plate. This is one of the best sides for Kielbasa and Pierogi Bake when serving family-style.

More Hearty Comfort Food Recipes

This Kielbasa and Pierogi Bake pairs wonderfully with other satisfying comfort food dishes that bring warmth to the dinner table. For a complete Eastern European-inspired feast, serve this alongside hearty Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa for potluck gatherings, or pair with rich Creamy Potato Soup for a cozy winter meal.

When planning weekly dinners, this pierogi bake complements other easy one-dish meals like Crockpot Sausage Casserole and Crazy Good Casserole. For a lighter option to balance the richness, serve with fresh Winter Salad or warm Potato and Sausage Chowder on the side.

Storing Your Leftover Pierogi Bake

Store leftover Kielbasa and Pierogi Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually develop and improve after a day, making leftovers incredibly delicious.

To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, though the oven method keeps the texture better and prevents sogginess.

Pro tip: this casserole freezes beautifully. Portion into individual freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Common Questions About This Recipe

Print