Recipe for a slow cooker dish with pierogies and sausage.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sausage:

Start by slicing the smoked sausage (or kielbasa) into 1/2-inch thick rounds. The smoky, savory flavor of the sausage is key to this dish, so feel free to use your favorite variety. If you like things spicier, you can use a hot sausage or a Cajun-style sausage for extra flavor.

2. Saute the Onion:

In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until it becomes soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. This will bring out the sweetness of the onion and give the dish a deeper flavor. If you prefer, you can skip this step and add the raw onion directly to the slow cooker, but sautéing it first will add a nice depth of flavor.

3. Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker:

Once the onion is sautéed, transfer it to the slow cooker. Then, add the sliced sausage, frozen pierogies, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth to give the dish moisture and to ensure the pierogies cook properly. Give everything a gentle stir to mix the ingredients together.

4. Cook the Dish:

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. The pierogies will become tender, and the sausage will infuse the dish with its smoky flavor. The broth will thicken and create a savory sauce that coats the pierogies and sausage, making every bite deliciously comforting.

5. Optional Cheese Addition:

If you like extra cheesy goodness, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the dish about 15-20 minutes before serving. Cover the slow cooker and let the cheese melt into the dish, creating a creamy, cheesy topping.

6. Garnish and Serve:

Once everything is cooked, give the dish a quick stir to combine all the flavors. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the hearty, satisfying meal.

Why This Dish is a Must-Try:

1. Effortless Preparation: This slow cooker recipe couldn’t be easier to prepare. Just chop, sauté, and toss everything into the slow cooker. It’s the ultimate hands-off meal that allows you to focus on other things while your dinner cooks itself.
2. Hearty and Filling: The combination of sausage and pierogies makes this dish incredibly hearty and satisfying. The savory sausage, soft pierogies, and flavorful broth make for a filling meal that will keep everyone at the table happy.
3. Customizable: This recipe is super versatile. You can switch up the sausage for a different variety (chicken sausage, Italian sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage) depending on your preference. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish.
4. Great for Meal Prep: This slow cooker dish is perfect for meal prepping. It stores well in the fridge for a few days, and the flavors even improve after sitting overnight. You can easily reheat it for a quick, satisfying lunch or dinner later in the week.
5. Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both adults and kids. The combination of pierogies and sausage is familiar and comforting, making it a great choice for family dinners. It’s also a great way to get kids to enjoy vegetables, as they’ll likely love the soft texture of the pierogies and the savory sausage.

Tips for Success:

• Use Frozen Pierogies: Frozen pierogies are the best choice for this recipe as they hold up well in the slow cooker. Fresh pierogies can become too soft and fall apart while cooking.
• Adjust the Broth: If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of broth to 1 1/2 cups. If you want a soupier dish, feel free to add more broth to your taste.
• Add Veggies: For added nutrition, throw in some frozen vegetables, like peas, corn, or green beans. They’ll cook alongside the pierogies and sausage and soak up the flavors of the broth.
• Spicy Kick: If you like a little spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use a spicy sausage variety to kick up the heat.

Conclusion: A Comforting, Hearty Meal with Minimal Effort

This Slow Cooker Pierogies and Sausage recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s the perfect balance of savory sausage, tender pierogies, and a deliciously seasoned broth that’s sure to warm you up from the inside out. With its ease of preparation and comforting flavors, this dish will quickly become a go-to for busy days or when you’re craving something cozy and satisfying.

So, the next time you’re looking for a delicious and effortless meal, toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic! Your taste buds (and your family) will thank you.