Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further than this delicious crockpot recipe for pierogi and kielbasa! This comforting dish combines the irresistible taste of Polish pierogi with savory kielbasa sausage, all slow-cooked to perfection in your trusty crockpot. It's the ultimate in easy recipes, perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. This healthy meal is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it an excellent choice for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) jar sauerkraut, drained
- 1 (16 ounce) package frozen pierogi (cheese or potato and cheese recommended)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
- Fresh dill, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
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Prep the Ingredients: Begin by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Slice the kielbasa into rounds. If your sauerkraut is particularly juicy, consider squeezing out some extra liquid before adding it to the crockpot. This will help prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
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Layer the Crockpot: Place the sliced kielbasa at the bottom of your crockpot. Top with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Evenly distribute the drained sauerkraut over the onion and garlic.
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Add Pierogi and Broth: Arrange the frozen pierogi on top of the sauerkraut. Pour the chicken broth evenly over everything.
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Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pierogi are heated through and the flavors have melded beautifully. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will develop.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, gently stir the pierogi and kielbasa together. Serve immediately, topped with a dollop of sour cream and fresh dill, if desired. This delicious dish pairs well with crusty bread for dipping.
Cooking Tips for the Best Pierogi and Kielbasa:
- Don't overcrowd the crockpot: Allow enough space for the ingredients to cook evenly. If necessary, use a larger crockpot or cook in batches.
- Adjust the broth: If the mixture seems too dry during cooking, add a little more chicken broth. Conversely, if it's too wet, you can remove some liquid before serving.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of caraway seeds or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick of flavor.
- Use different pierogi: Experiment with different types of pierogi, such as potato and onion, or even fruit pierogi for a sweet and savory twist (though this may change the overall balance of flavors).
Delicious Variations:
- Add some vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables such as diced carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers for added nutrients and flavor.
- Use different sausage: Substitute the kielbasa with other smoked sausages, such as andouille or Polish sausage.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a can of cream of mushroom soup during the last hour of cooking for a richer, creamier dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 (depending on pierogi filling and additions)
- Protein: Approximately 20-25 grams
- Fat: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40 grams
This pierogi and kielbasa crockpot recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. It's a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and comforting dish you'll want to make again and again. Enjoy!