Pierogi Casserole with Sausage

Pierogi casserole with sausage is the kind of comforting dish that brings warmth to the table no matter the season. Creamy, hearty, and full of satisfying flavors, this casserole combines tender pierogies, savory sausage, caramelized onions, and a rich cheesy sauce into a layered bake that feels like home. It’s a shortcut version of traditional pierogies and kielbasa, turning familiar ingredients into a one-pan dinner that’s both nostalgic and incredibly easy to prepare.

Whether you’re craving a cozy weeknight meal or feeding a hungry crowd, this casserole delivers big flavor without complicated steps. It’s creamy, indulgent, and loaded with Polish-inspired comfort—perfect for those nights when you want something especially hearty and satisfying.

Why This Pierogi Casserole With Sausage Works So Well

This dish succeeds because it brings together key comfort-food elements:

• Tender pierogies that stay soft inside while absorbing rich flavors

• Sliced sausage that adds smoky, savory depth

• Caramelized onions for sweetness and aroma

• A creamy sauce that ties everything together

• Cheese for extra indulgence and baked-in richness

Each component supports the others, creating a casserole that’s filling, flavorful, and deeply comforting.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet

• 9×13-inch baking dish

• Mixing bowl

• Cutting board

• Sharp knife

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Aluminum foil (optional, for baking)

Ingredients List

For the Casserole

• 1 (16–18 oz) box frozen pierogies (potato & cheese recommended)

• 1 lb smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced

• 1 large onion, thinly sliced

• 2 tbsp butter

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and black pepper

• Optional: 1 cup sautéed mushrooms

• Optional: 1 cup spinach or kale

For the Creamy Cheese Sauce

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack

• ¼ cup chicken broth or milk

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp paprika

• ½ tsp onion powder

• Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

Toppings

• Fresh parsley

• Crispy bacon pieces (optional)

• Extra cheese

Timing & Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 30–35 minutes

• Total Time: 45–50 minutes

• Servings: 6 servings

How to Make Pierogi Casserole with Sausage

This casserole comes together with simple skillet prep and finishes beautifully in the oven.

Step 1. Preheat Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2. Brown the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Add sliced smoked sausage and cook until golden brown on the edges.

This step deepens the flavor and adds irresistible texture.

Step 3. Caramelize the Onions

Add butter to the skillet and stir in sliced onions.

Cook for 8–10 minutes until soft, golden, and fragrant.

Expert Note: Slow cooking the onions enhances their sweetness and balances the richness of the cheese sauce.

Step 4. Prepare the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a medium bowl, mix together:

• Sour cream

• Cheddar cheese

• Mozzarella

• Chicken broth or milk

• Garlic powder

• Onion powder

• Paprika

• Black pepper

Stir until smooth. Adjust thickness with more broth if needed.

Step 5. Assemble the Casserole

Layer frozen pierogies evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Top with browned sausage and onions.

Pour the cheese sauce over everything and spread gently.

Sprinkle with extra cheese if you want an extra golden top.

Step 6. Bake Until Hot and Bubbly

Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.

Let sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the layers to settle.

Why This Dish Is So Comforting

Pierogi casserole brings together hearty ingredients and nostalgic flavors:

• Pierogies offer pillowy texture and potato-cheese richness.

• Sausage adds smoky, savory depth that balances the creamy sauce.

• Cheese sauce provides indulgence and ties everything together.

• Onions bring warmth and sweetness.

It’s a complete comfort-food meal baked into a single casserole dish.

Flavor Variations & Customizations

This casserole is flexible, making it easy to adjust based on preference.

Make It Spicy

• Use spicy kielbasa

• Add red pepper flakes

• Swirl in a little hot sauce

Make It Creamier

Add a splash of heavy cream to the cheese sauce.

Add More Vegetables

Try adding:

• Spinach

• Mushrooms

• Bell peppers

• Broccoli

Swap the Sausage

Use:

• Turkey sausage

• Chicken sausage

• Vegetarian sausage

Use Different Cheese

Mix in:

• Gruyère

• Monterey Jack

• Swiss cheese

• Sharp white cheddar

Make It Extra Crispy

Add a topping of:

• Buttered breadcrumbs

• Crushed Ritz crackers

• Bacon crumbles

Serving Ideas

Pierogi casserole is filling on its own but pairs well with lighter sides.

Great Side Dishes

• Simple green salad

• Steamed green beans

• Roasted Brussels sprouts

• Pickled cucumbers

• Garlic bread

These sides help balance the richness of the casserole.

Meal Prep, Storage & Reheating Tips

Pierogi casserole stores and reheats exceptionally well.

Refrigerator

Store leftovers for 3–4 days in airtight containers.

Freezer

Freeze baked casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating

• Oven: 350°F for 15–20 minutes

• Microwave: Heat in short intervals

• Air fryer: 350°F for 5–7 minutes for crisp edges

Expert Tips for the Best Pierogi Casserole

Use Frozen Pierogies Directly

No need to thaw—they cook perfectly in the oven.

Brown the Sausage Well

This adds smoky flavor and improves texture.

Layer Evenly

Even distribution ensures every bite has sausage, pierogi, and onions.

Taste the Sauce

Adjust seasonings before pouring it over the casserole.

Rest Before Serving

A short rest helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes serving easier.

Nutritional Facts (Approx. per Serving)

• Calories: 520–560 kcal

• Protein: 22–26 g

• Carbohydrates: 38–42 g

• Fat: 32–36 g

• Saturated Fat: 14–17 g

• Cholesterol: 85–95 mg

• Fiber: 3–4 g

• Sugar: 4–6 g

• Sodium: 950–1,100 mg

Values depend on sausage type and cheese amounts.

Love warm and filling dinners like this? You may also enjoy Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas, Slow Cooker Salsa Verde Chicken, or Dirty Rice with Ground Beef.

Conclusion

Pierogi casserole with sausage is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that transforms simple ingredients into a hearty, flavorful meal. With tender pierogies, smoky sausage, sweet onions, and a creamy cheese sauce, it offers everything you want in a classic comfort-food casserole. Whether you’re serving a family dinner or reheating leftovers for lunch, this recipe delivers warm, nostalgic flavor every single time.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make pierogi casserole with sausage ahead of time?

Yes. You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best texture.

2. What type of sausage works best in pierogi casserole?

Smoked sausage, kielbasa, or Polish sausage work best. They add rich flavor and hold their texture well during baking.

3. Can I freeze pierogi casserole?

Yes. Let the casserole cool completely, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

4. How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Reheat covered in the oven at 325°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

5. Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Absolutely. Onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach pair well and add extra flavor and texture without overpowering the dish.