Description
Slow Cooker Pierogi and Sausage is the kind of hearty, comforting meal that makes dinner easy without sacrificing flavor. Tender frozen pierogies, smoky slices of sausage, and sweet onions slowly cook together in a buttery, savory broth seasoned with garlic, paprika, and black pepper.
The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing the flavors to blend while the pierogies become soft and satisfying. A little shredded cheddar added near the end creates an extra creamy, cheesy finish.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you want a simple meal made with affordable ingredients.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 package (16–20 oz) frozen pierogies — Use cheese or potato pierogies. There is no need to thaw them first.
- 12–14 oz smoked sausage, sliced — Kielbasa or another smoked sausage works especially well.
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced — The onion becomes tender and sweet as it cooks.
- 2 tbsp butter, melted — Adds richness and helps create a flavorful buttery sauce.
- 1 cup chicken broth — Provides moisture and savory flavor.
- 1 tsp garlic powder — Adds a mild garlic flavor throughout the dish.
- ½ tsp black pepper — Adds gentle seasoning and warmth.
- ½ tsp paprika — Gives the dish a subtle smoky, slightly sweet flavor.
- ½ tsp salt, or adjust to taste — The amount may need to be reduced depending on how salty the sausage and broth are.
- Optional: ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese — Adds a creamy, cheesy topping.
Why These Ingredients Work
The combination of pierogies and smoked sausage makes this dish especially satisfying. The pierogies provide a soft, tender base with a delicious potato-and-cheese filling, while the smoked sausage contributes a rich, savory flavor.
The onions add natural sweetness, which balances the smoky sausage. Butter gives the dish a richer mouthfeel, while chicken broth keeps everything moist during slow cooking.
Garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt provide simple seasoning without overpowering the main ingredients. Finally, cheddar cheese can be added toward the end for an extra indulgent finish.
How to Make Slow Cooker Pierogi and Sausage
- Prepare the Ingredients
Start by slicing the smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the onion so it cooks evenly and becomes tender.
Melt the 2 tablespoons of butter and set it aside.
There is no need to thaw the frozen pierogies. They can go directly into the slow cooker.
- Layer Everything in the Slow Cooker
Place the 16–20 oz package of frozen pierogies into the slow cooker.
Add the 12–14 oz sliced smoked sausage and the thinly sliced large onion.
Try to distribute the ingredients fairly evenly rather than placing everything in one pile.
- Add the Butter, Broth, and Seasonings
Pour the 2 tablespoons melted butter and 1 cup chicken broth over the pierogies, sausage, and onions.
Sprinkle evenly with:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
If your sausage and chicken broth are already quite salty, start with less salt and adjust later.
- Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook according to your preferred setting:
LOW: 4–5 hours
HIGH: 2–3 hours
Cooking times can vary between slow cookers, so check the pierogies toward the end of the cooking time.
Avoid excessive stirring because the pierogies can become fragile and break apart.
- Add the Cheese
If using cheddar, sprinkle ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese over the top during the final 20 minutes of cooking.
Cover again and allow the cheese to melt completely.
For an especially creamy result, you can gently fold some of the melted cheese into the dish before serving.
- Serve
Once the pierogies are tender and the sausage is heated through, gently stir the mixture.
Serve warm with your favorite toppings or side dishes.
Helpful Tips for the Best Results
Don’t thaw the pierogies. Frozen pierogies can be added directly to the slow cooker.
Stir gently. Pierogies can break apart when they become soft, so use a gentle hand.
Choose flavorful sausage. Kielbasa or another smoked sausage adds plenty of savory flavor.
Watch the salt. Smoked sausage and chicken broth can both contain significant amounts of sodium.
Don’t overcook. Cooking considerably longer than recommended can make the pierogies overly soft.
Easy Variations
Creamy Pierogi and Sausage
For a richer dish, add a splash of heavy cream toward the end of cooking. Stir gently and allow it to warm through.
Crispy Sausage Version
For deeper flavor, sauté the sliced sausage in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. This gives the sausage browned edges and a more intense smoky flavor.
Add Vegetables
Bell peppers and mushrooms are excellent additions. You can also experiment with other vegetables that hold up well during slow cooking.
Spicy Version
Add red chili flakes or a small amount of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Cheesy Version
Use the optional ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese, or experiment with another melting cheese such as Monterey Jack or Colby.
Lighter Version
Use turkey sausage and reduce the butter. You can also replace some or all of the butter with olive oil.
What to Serve With Pierogi and Sausage
Because this is already a filling one-pot meal, simple sides work best. Consider serving it with:
- A crisp green salad
- Steamed vegetables
- Roasted broccoli
- Green beans
- Sauerkraut
- A spoonful of sour cream
- Fresh parsley for garnish
A simple salad is particularly useful for adding freshness and crunch to the rich, savory dish.
Can I Make This on the Stovetop?
Yes. For a quicker version, combine the ingredients in a large skillet or pot and cook over medium heat for approximately 20–25 minutes, stirring carefully as the pierogies become tender.
Keep an eye on the liquid and add a small amount of broth if necessary.
Storage
Allow leftovers to cool before transferring them to an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
When reheating, use the microwave or a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small splash of broth or water if the pierogies seem dry.
Can You Freeze Pierogi and Sausage?
Yes, although the texture of the pierogies may become somewhat softer after freezing and reheating.
For best results, cool the leftovers completely, place them in a freezer-safe airtight container, and freeze.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen?
Yes. Fresh pierogies can be used, but reduce the cooking time slightly because they generally become tender faster than frozen pierogies.
Q2: Do I need to thaw the frozen pierogies?
No. Add them directly to the slow cooker from frozen.
Q3: What type of sausage works best?
Kielbasa and other smoked sausages work particularly well because their smoky, savory flavor pairs beautifully with the buttery pierogies and sweet onions.
Q4: Can I add cheese?
Absolutely. Add ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese during the final 20 minutes and allow it to melt.
Q5: Can I add heavy cream?
Yes. A small splash of heavy cream can make the finished dish richer and creamier.
Q6: Why are my pierogies falling apart?
They may have been stirred too frequently or cooked too long. Stir gently and avoid unnecessary handling once the pierogies become tender.
Q7: Can I make this healthier?
Yes. Turkey sausage can replace smoked sausage, and you can reduce the butter or use olive oil. Adding vegetables can also increase the nutritional variety of the meal.
Q8: How long do leftovers last?
Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Approximate Nutrition
Per serving, based on approximately 4–5 servings:
- Calories: 400–480 kcal
- Protein: 15–20 g
- Fat: 20–28 g
- Carbohydrates: 35–45 g
- Sodium: 700–1000 mg
Actual nutrition will vary depending on the brand of pierogies, sausage, broth, butter, and cheese used.
Recipe at a Glance
Prep Time: About 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4–5 hours on LOW or 2–3 hours on HIGH
Servings: 4–5
Difficulty: Easy
Cooking Method: Slow cooker
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Pierogi and Sausage is a simple, budget-friendly comfort meal that requires very little hands-on preparation. With frozen pierogies, smoky sausage, tender onions, butter, broth, and a few everyday seasonings, you can create a warm and satisfying dinner with minimal effort.