Name: Cheesy Pierogi Casserole for Ultimate Comfort Food Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 24 pieces Frozen Cheddar Cheese Pierogies (No need to defrost); 16 ounces Alfredo Sauce (Your favorite jarred brand); 8 ounces Crispy Cooked Bacon (Substitute with turkey bacon if preferred); 4 tablespoons Green Onions (Sliced; shallots can be an alternative); 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella (Can substitute with provolone); 1 cup Shredded Cheddar (Any sharp cheese will work); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt; 1 teaspoon Black Pepper; 2 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Parsley (For garnish)

As I scooped the last bit of Cheesy Pierogi Casserole from the baking dish, the aroma of melted cheese and crispy bacon wafted through the kitchen, beckoning my family to gather around the table. This comforting dish embodies everything I love about homemade meals: it’s quick to prepare, taking only 15 minutes of your time before sliding into the oven, and does not skimp on flavor or heartiness. Perfect for those hectic weeknights, this casserole transforms frozen cheddar cheese pierogies into a mouthwatering masterpiece, layered with creamy alfredo sauce and topped with a golden crust of gooey cheese. With just a few simple ingredients, you will create a delightful meal that pleases everyone at the table. Curious about how to bring this warm hug of a dish into your home? Let’s dive in!

Why is This Casserole So Appealing?

Quick Preparation: With a mere 15 minutes of prep, this delicious dish makes weeknight dinners a breeze.

Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cheesy pierogies! This casserole is sure to delight both kids and adults alike.

Versatile Ingredients: Use frozen cheese pierogies and your favorite store-bought alfredo sauce, saving time without compromising flavor.

Creamy and Cheesy: The velvety alfredo sauce combined with layers of gooey mozzarella and sharp cheddar creates an irresistible melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Easy Variations: Want to spice it up? Swap bacon for sautéed mushrooms or toss in some fresh spinach for an extra burst of nutrients!

This Cheesy Pierogi Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a delightful way to bring the family together! For those who enjoy other comforting casseroles, check out my Broccoli Cheese Casserole or the delicious Eggs Benedict Casserole for more weeknight inspiration.

Cheesy Pierogi Casserole Ingredients

For the Casserole
• Frozen Cheddar Cheese Pierogies – The foundation of this dish; no need to defrost before using.
• Alfredo Sauce – Adds a creamy richness; feel free to opt for your favorite jarred brand.
• Crispy Cooked Bacon – Offers a delicious crunch; substitute with turkey bacon if you prefer a leaner option.
• Green Onions – Introduces a fresh, mild onion flavor; shallots can be a great alternative.
• Shredded Mozzarella – Melts beautifully, creating that gooey top layer; provolone can be used for a different taste.
• Shredded Cheddar – Adds a sharp flavor and extra cheesiness; any sharp cheese will work if cheddar is unavailable.
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance overall flavors.
• Chopped Fresh Parsley – For garnish, bringing a burst of freshness and color to your dish.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Pierogi Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, take a moment to grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter. This ensures easy serving and cleanup later. The warmth of your oven will soon fill the kitchen with delicious aromas as the Cheesy Pierogi Casserole bakes.

Step 2: First Layer of Pierogies
Once the dish is ready, layer half of the frozen cheddar cheese pierogies on the bottom, arranging them evenly. There’s no need to defrost, as they will cook beautifully in the oven. Place them snugly to create a solid foundation for your casserole, making sure they’re flat and evenly distributed.

Step 3: Add Alfredo Sauce
Spread half of the alfredo sauce generously over the first layer of pierogies, ensuring every dumpling is well-coated. This creamy goodness will soak into the pierogies as they bake, imbuing them with flavor. The rich, velvety consistency of the sauce is crucial for achieving the ultimate cheesy comfort that this Cheesy Pierogi Casserole promises.

Step 4: Sprinkle Toppings
Now, sprinkle half of the crispy cooked bacon, followed by half of the sliced green onions, evenly across the sauced pierogies. The bacon adds a delightful crunch, while the green onions introduce a fresh, mild flavor that brightens the dish. Finally, layer half of the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese generously on top for that golden finish.

Step 5: Repeat the Layers
Next, repeat the layering process with the remaining frozen pierogies, sauce, bacon, green onions, and cheeses. Ensure that everything is evenly spread to maintain a balanced flavor throughout the Cheesy Pierogi Casserole. Don’t forget to season with kosher salt and black pepper to enhance all the rich flavors.

Step 6: Bake Covered
Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes to allow the pierogies to steam and soften. This step ensures that the entire dish heats through, creating that comforting and hearty texture that we love in a casserole.

Step 7: Bake Uncovered
After 15 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue to bake the Cheesy Pierogi Casserole for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the dish is bubbling and the cheese is beautifully melted and golden brown. The savory aroma wafting from the oven will surely entice everyone in your home!

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once the casserole is done baking, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few moments. Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a vibrant touch of color and freshness. Now your Cheesy Pierogi Casserole is ready to be served and enjoyed!

Expert Tips for Cheesy Pierogi Casserole

Grease the Dish: Ensure thorough greasing to prevent sticking and promote easy serving. Cleanup will be a breeze!

No Need to Defrost: Frozen cheddar cheese pierogies can go straight into the casserole without defrosting; they bake perfectly from frozen!

Layer Evenly: Distribute the pierogies and toppings evenly to ensure balanced flavor in every bite of the Cheesy Pierogi Casserole.

Cover to Steam: Remember to cover the dish with foil for the first 15 minutes to steam the pierogies, making them tender and delicious.

Check for Doneness: Look for bubbling and golden cheese on top; this indicates that your casserole is perfectly baked and ready to serve!

Serve with Sides: Complement your casserole with a fresh salad or sautéed veggies for a well-rounded meal that’s both comforting and nutritious.

Make Ahead Options

This Cheesy Pierogi Casserole is perfect for busy weeknight meal prep! You can layer the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance by preparing the pierogies and sauce layers, then covering and refrigerating it. This not only saves you time on hectic evenings but ensures the flavors meld beautifully overnight. Be sure to keep it covered to maintain its freshness, and when you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time. Enjoy a comforting home-cooked meal that is just as delicious as it would be if made fresh!

What to Serve with Cheesy Pierogi Casserole

Setting the table with delicious side dishes elevates your comfort meal experience and rounds out a memorable dinner.

Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette balance the richness of the casserole, providing a refreshing contrast.
Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: The nutty flavor of Brussels sprouts paired with savory bacon echoes the smoky notes in the casserole, offering a delightful taste harmony.
Oven-Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus roasted to perfection brings a subtle crunch and bright flavor, enhancing the overall meal experience.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks are perfect for mopping up creamy sauce, adding a bit of indulgence to your meal.
Creamy Coleslaw: This tangy-sweet side adds a crisp texture, acting as a refreshing palette cleanser amidst the cheesy goodness.
Sweet Corn on the Cob: Bright, sweet corn complements the flavors of the casserole, providing a pop of sweetness that balances the savory elements.
Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with warm apple crisp; its fruity flavor and crumbly topping contrast beautifully with the rich casserole.

Cheesy Pierogi Casserole Variations

Cooking is all about making it your own, and this cheesy delight welcomes your creative touch!

Vegetarian Delight: Replace crispy bacon with sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, meatless option. Earthy and flavorful, it adds a lovely depth to the dish.
Homemade Touch: Swap the jarred alfredo sauce for a homemade cheese sauce. This way, you can control the flavors and make it uniquely yours!
Veggie Boost: Toss in chopped spinach or diced tomatoes between the layers for a pop of color and extra nutrients. It makes your casserole healthier and visually appealing!
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the alfredo sauce or layer sliced jalapeños for an extra kick of heat. Fire up those taste buds!
Flavor Fusion: Incorporate cooked Italian sausage along with the bacon for a delicious flavor combination. This adds a savory twist that your family will love.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheese combinations like pepper jack or gouda for a unique twist. Those flavors will surprise and delight everyone at the table!
Creamy Spin: Mixing in a dollop of sour cream with the alfredo sauce gives a tangy creaminess that takes this casserole to an even higher level of comfort.
Herbal Notes: Sprinkle fresh thyme or dill among the layers for a refreshing herbal note that upliftingly enhances the flavor profile.

Feel free to explore these variations and make this Cheesy Pierogi Casserole truly yours! And if the love for baked delights calls you, why not check out my Buttermilk Pancake Casserole or indulge in a savory Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf for more comforting options? Happy cooking!

How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Pierogi Casserole

Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, ensuring they remain fresh and tasty for quick meals throughout the week.

Freezer: To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored for up to 2 months without compromising flavor.

Reheating: Thaw the casserole overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 30 minutes. Enjoy that comforting Cheesy Pierogi Casserole again!

Cheesy Pierogi Casserole Recipe FAQs

What kind of pierogies should I use?
For this Cheesy Pierogi Casserole, I recommend using frozen cheddar cheese pierogies. They provide the perfect flavor base for the dish, and there’s no need to defrost them beforehand—just layer them straight from the freezer!

How do I store the leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I often enjoy reheating them in the microwave at reduced power to keep them nice and creamy without drying out.

Can I freeze Cheesy Pierogi Casserole?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely after baking. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through (about 30 minutes).

What are some common issues when making this casserole?
If your pierogies turn out a bit tough, it might be because they weren’t steamed enough at the beginning. Make sure to cover the dish with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking to create steam. Also, uneven layering can lead to some bites tasting less flavorful. Be sure to distribute the sauce, toppings, and pierogies evenly for the best results!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
This casserole contains dairy and gluten from the pierogies and cheeses, so it may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivities. If you’re feeding a crowd, consider using gluten-free pierogies and a dairy-free cheese alternative to make this dish more inclusive for different dietary needs.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Very much! Adding vegetables not only boosts nutrition but also adds vibrant color. I suggest incorporating sautéed spinach or diced tomatoes between the layers for an extra flavor twist. Just be sure to keep the moisture in check to avoid a soggy casserole!