Kielbasa and Pierogi Bake Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines hearty flavors with effortless prep, look no further than this delightful Kielbasa and Pierogi Bake Recipe. Imagine tender, golden pierogies smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce, studded with smoky kielbasa and sweet sautéed onions—all baked to bubbling perfection. This is not just a meal; it’s a warm, satisfying hug on a plate that’s ready to become one of your favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this bake comes alive thanks to a handful of simple, yet invaluable ingredients. Each element plays a vital role—from the creamy texture and sharp flavor of the cheeses to the savory punch from the kielbasa and the subtle sweetness of the caramelized onions.

• Frozen potato and cheese pierogies (16 oz): The comforting, pillowy base that makes this dish irresistible.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Perfect for sautéing the onions and kielbasa to golden, flavorful perfection.
• Medium yellow onion (1, thinly sliced): Adds sweetness and depth to balance the hearty sausage.
• Kielbasa sausage (14 oz, sliced): The smoky star of the dish, providing a satisfying savory bite.
• Sour cream (1/2 cup): Delivers tangy creaminess that ties the sauce together beautifully.
• Cream cheese (1/2 cup, softened): Creates a rich and smooth sauce base with a luscious texture.
• Whole milk (1/4 cup): Thins the sauce slightly to coat pierogies just right.
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses the bake with subtle, savory warmth.
• Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just the right bit of spice to enhance the flavors.
• Paprika (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Offers a lovely color and a hint of smoky complexity.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts over the top for that irresistible cheesy crust.
• Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): A fresh, vibrant garnish that adds a pop of green and flavor.

How to Make Kielbasa and Pierogi Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This simple setup ensures your pierogi bake won’t stick and is ready to receive all those fabulous layers.

Step 2: Sauté Onions Until Golden

In a large skillet over medium heat, warm your olive oil. Toss in the thinly sliced onions and cook them for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they turn soft and golden brown. This step is crucial because caramelized onions bring a subtle sweetness that perfectly balances the smoky kielbasa.

Step 3: Brown the Kielbasa

Add the sliced kielbasa to the skillet and continue cooking for another 4 to 5 minutes. Let the sausage pieces develop a slight crisp and rich color. Removing from heat here locks in their smoky flavor while preventing overcooking.

Step 4: Craft the Creamy Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream, softened cream cheese, whole milk, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika until smooth and well combined. This is the luscious sauce that will embrace your pierogies, making each bite irresistibly creamy.

Step 5: Assemble the Bake

Spread the frozen pierogies evenly in your prepared baking dish. Pour the creamy sauce over the pierogies and gently toss to coat them thoroughly. Next, add the sautéed onions and browned kielbasa on top, gently mixing them in to distribute through the dish.

Step 6: Top with Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the entire surface. Cover your dish with foil and pop it into the oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. You want the cheese melted and bubbling with a lovely golden finish.

Step 7: Final Touch

Once it’s out of the oven, scatter the chopped fresh parsley over the top. This bright, herbaceous note adds an inviting pop of color and freshness that complements every savory bite.

How to Serve Kielbasa and Pierogi Bake Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley is not only beautiful but also adds a touch of herbal brightness that cuts through the richness. For an extra flair, consider a few thin slices of green onion or a dollop of sour cream on the side for dipping.

Side Dishes

This bake is a hearty, filling dish on its own, but pairing it with crisp green salads, steamed vegetables, or even a light cucumber salad can balance the richness perfectly. Roasted Brussels sprouts or a simple coleslaw also make amazing companions.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve this bake family-style right from the dish at the table, allowing everyone to scoop out generous portions. Alternatively, plate individual servings with a fresh herb garnish and a sprinkle of paprika on top for a restaurant-worthy presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Kielbasa and Pierogi Bake Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors often develop even more, making leftovers a tasty treat.

Freezing

You can freeze this bake before cooking or after baking. Wrap the dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap if freezing uncooked, or transfer leftovers into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly. Microwaving works too but may affect the texture of the pierogies slightly. Adding a bit of extra shredded cheese on top before reheating can refresh the cheesy goodness.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh pierogies will work wonderfully, but you may need to adjust cooking times as they tend to cook faster and won’t need as long in the oven.

Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap the kielbasa for plant-based sausage or omit it and add sautéed mushrooms or extra vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for added flavor and texture.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Definitely. You can assemble the entire dish and refrigerate it overnight before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

What can I use if I don’t have cream cheese on hand?

Sour cream alone can be used for the sauce, but it will be less creamy. Alternatively, a mild cream cheese substitute or mascarpone can work, adjusting the amount of milk to achieve the right consistency.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Traditional pierogies often contain wheat, so if you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free pierogies or consider making your own using gluten-free dough.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say the Kielbasa and Pierogi Bake Recipe is a recipe you want in your regular rotation. It’s cozy, satisfying, and beyond simple to pull together. Whether feeding family on a weeknight or impressing friends on a chilly weekend, this dish hits all the right notes. Give it a try—you’ll be glad you did!

Print