This comforting Kielbasa and Pierogi Bake combines hearty Polish dumplings with smoky kielbasa sausage in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing casserole perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings. Rich, savory, and wonderfully satisfying, this bake turns simple ingredients into a delicious, oven-baked meal.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

1 (16-ounce) package frozen potato and cheese pierogi
14 ounces kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup milk
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 4–5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Arrange the frozen pierogi evenly in the prepared baking dish. Scatter the sliced kielbasa over the pierogi.
In a medium bowl, whisk together sour cream, milk, remaining melted butter, black pepper, and smoked paprika until smooth. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
Pour the sour cream mixture evenly over the pierogi and kielbasa in the baking dish.
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 530
Total Fat: 36g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 1060mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 20g

Origins of the Dish

The Kielbasa and Pierogi Bake brings together two beloved staples of Eastern European cuisine: kielbasa sausage and pierogi. Kielbasa, with its rich, smoky flavor, has roots in Polish culinary tradition, where it has been enjoyed for centuries. Pierogi, dumplings typically filled with potatoes, cheese, or meat, are an iconic comfort food in Poland and neighboring countries. Combining these ingredients into a baked casserole is a distinctly modern twist, created to offer the same comforting flavors in a convenient, one-pan meal that suits today’s busy kitchens.

Nutritional Profile and Benefits

Although hearty and indulgent, this dish provides a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats that make it satisfying and filling. Kielbasa contributes protein and iron, while pierogi add energy-rich carbs. The cheese and sour cream in the bake provide calcium, which supports bone health. Using fresh herbs like parsley offers small amounts of vitamins A and C. To keep the dish lighter, you can choose turkey kielbasa or reduced-fat dairy products, which help lower saturated fat content without sacrificing taste.

Popular Variations

The Kielbasa and Pierogi Bake is easy to customize based on personal preferences or dietary needs. Some cooks add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or baby spinach for extra vegetables and nutrients. Others replace potato and cheese pierogi with sauerkraut pierogi to add tanginess. For a spicier version, hot kielbasa or smoked chorizo can replace traditional kielbasa, while a sprinkling of crushed red pepper adds heat. You can even swap cheddar cheese for pepper jack, mozzarella, or Swiss to create new flavor profiles.

Serving Suggestions

This bake is hearty enough to serve as a complete meal, but adding sides can create a balanced dinner. A simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole. Steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or braised cabbage add color and freshness. For those wanting a traditional Polish touch, serve with a spoonful of sauerkraut on the side. Warm rolls or crusty bread can also be offered to soak up the creamy sauce.

Pairing Ideas

Pairing beverages with the Kielbasa and Pierogi Bake can enhance the dining experience. A crisp lager or pilsner works well with the smoky flavors of the kielbasa, cutting through the richness of the cheese and sour cream. For wine lovers, a chilled Riesling or Grüner Veltliner provides acidity and fruitiness to balance the dish’s creamy base. Those preferring non-alcoholic options might enjoy sparkling water with lemon or an herbal iced tea to cleanse the palate between bites.

Tips for Making Ahead

One of the biggest advantages of this bake is its convenience, especially if prepared ahead of time. Assemble the entire dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply preheat the oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking directly from the fridge. This makes it ideal for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or when hosting guests.

Storage and Reheating Advice

Leftovers store well and taste just as good the next day. Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, place a serving in the microwave, covered, until warmed through, or reheat the entire dish in a 350°F oven until hot. Freezing is also an option: wrap the casserole tightly in foil and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking or reheating.

Making It Lighter

For those looking to reduce calories and saturated fat, there are several easy swaps. Use turkey kielbasa instead of pork, and choose low-fat or fat-free sour cream and cheese. Incorporate more vegetables like cauliflower florets or zucchini slices to replace some of the pierogi, which cuts carbs while adding fiber and nutrients. Even small adjustments like using reduced-sodium kielbasa help make the dish more heart-friendly without losing its comforting essence.

Why It’s a Crowd Favorite

Part of this bake’s enduring appeal lies in its versatility and nostalgic flavor. Combining smoky sausage with tender pierogi in a creamy sauce makes it universally comforting, while the golden, melted cheese topping offers visual and textural appeal. It’s a dish that appeals to both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Its make-ahead nature and freezer-friendliness add to its practicality for home cooks.

Inspiration for Leftovers

Leftover Kielbasa and Pierogi Bake can easily be transformed into new meals. Dice the leftovers and sauté in a skillet until crispy to make a quick breakfast hash, adding scrambled eggs on top. Or warm them and stuff into a crusty roll with a bit of mustard and sauerkraut for a hearty sandwich. Leftovers also work well as a filling in puff pastry pockets, creating hand pies that are great for lunches or picnics. Creative reuse keeps this dish interesting and minimizes food waste.

Cooking Tips for Best Results

To get the best texture, don’t thaw the pierogi before baking; adding them frozen prevents them from becoming overly soft. Slice the kielbasa evenly to ensure every bite has balanced flavor. When mixing the sour cream sauce, whisk until smooth so it coats the pierogi evenly. Finally, keep an eye on the casserole in the final minutes of baking to avoid over-browning the cheese; tent loosely with foil if needed to keep the top golden but not burnt. These small tips ensure every bake comes out creamy, cheesy, and delicious.

Conclusion

The Kielbasa and Pierogi Bake is a comforting, flavorful dish that perfectly blends traditional Eastern European ingredients with modern convenience. Its rich, smoky kielbasa paired with tender, cheesy pierogi and a creamy sauce makes it an irresistible meal for any occasion. Whether served fresh from the oven or enjoyed as leftovers reinvented in new ways, this bake offers versatility, hearty satisfaction, and easy preparation. With simple customization options and practical make-ahead potential, it’s a dish that belongs in every home cook’s recipe collection.

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