Savory Pierogi Casserole is a cozy, comforting dish that brings together the best parts of classic pierogies all in one pan. You get tender dumplings filled with potato and cheese, topped with caramelized onions and melted cheese that create a warm, satisfying meal. It’s like your favorite pierogi dinner, but easier to share and even easier to love.
I always think of this casserole as the perfect weeknight dinner when I want something filling without lots of fuss. What I love is how the flavors come together—soft, pillowy pierogies with those sweet onions and gooey cheese on top. I like to add a little sour cream on the side because that cool tang really balances out the richness. It’s like a hug on a plate, and making it reminds me of family dinners where everyone gathers around, eager for the first bite.
Serving this dish is a breeze, and it’s great for sharing with friends or family because it feels homey and special all at once. I sometimes sprinkle fresh herbs on top for a bit of color, but even without that, it’s a crowd-pleaser. If you have leftover casserole, it heats up just as well for lunch the next day and makes a perfect hearty snack. This recipe is one of those meals that brings comfort and smiles, no matter the season.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pierogies: Frozen potato and cheese pierogies are the star here. If you can’t find them, you can use any filled dumplings or even frozen gnocchi as a fun alternative.
Onions & Garlic: Caramelized onions bring a sweet depth. If you’re short on time, lightly sauté onions until soft instead. Garlic adds a nice kick; feel free to use garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
Dairy: Sour cream and cream cheese create a creamy sauce that coats the pierogies perfectly. For a lighter version, Greek yogurt works well. Milk thins the sauce; any milk – dairy or plant-based – will do.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts well and adds flavor. You can swap cheddar with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder taste or a stretchier texture.
Herbs: Dried parsley and dill add subtle herbal notes. Fresh herbs like chives not only taste great but brighten the dish with color.
How Can I Get Perfectly Caramelized Onions Without Burning Them?
Caramelizing onions slowly draws out their natural sweetness without burning. Here’s how I do it:
- Heat butter over medium heat, then add onions.
- Cook low and slow, stirring often, for about 5-7 minutes until soft and golden.
- Add garlic in the last minute to avoid burning it.
- If the onions start to stick, splash a tiny bit of water and stir to loosen them.
- Take your time – patient onions mean better flavor!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – I like it because it’s the perfect size to hold everything comfortably and cooks the casserole evenly.
- Large skillet – this is great for sautéing onions and garlic; it’s easy to stir and caramelize without splattering too much.
- Boiling pot – for cooking the frozen pierogies until tender; a medium-sized pot works well.
- Mixing bowl – to combine the creamy sauce ingredients smoothly.
- Rubber spatula or spoon – makes folding the pierogies into the sauce easy without breaking them.
- Grater – to shred your preferred cheese quickly and easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient portions.
- Baking sheet or foil – to line the dish if you like a cleaner cleanup.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Protein boost: Add cooked bacon, ham, or cooked sausage to give more heartiness and flavor to the casserole.
- Cheese options: Mix in gruyère, mozzarella, or even feta for different taste profiles and melting qualities.
- Veggie additions: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
- Herb twists: Top with fresh dill, parsley, or chives before baking for a bright, fresh flavor finish.
How to Make Savory Pierogi Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (16 oz) frozen potato and cheese pierogies
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, 5 minutes to cook the pierogies, and about 25 minutes to bake. So overall, expect around 40 minutes from start to finish to enjoy this cheesy, comforting casserole.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pierogies:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring a pot of water to boil and gently cook the frozen pierogies according to the package—usually a few minutes until tender. Drain them well and set aside.
2. Prepare the Onion and Garlic:
While the pierogies cook, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and golden. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, softened cream cheese, milk, dried parsley, dried dill (if using), and the sautéed onion and garlic mixture. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Pierogies with Sauce:
Add the cooked pierogies into the creamy sauce and gently fold until all are well coated. Be careful not to break the pierogies while mixing.
5. Bake the Casserole:
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the pierogi mixture evenly in the dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Sprinkle chopped fresh chives or green onions on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm, with an optional dollop of sour cream on the side for extra creaminess.
Can I Use Frozen Pierogies Directly in the Casserole?
It’s best to cook the frozen pierogies first by boiling them until just tender. This helps prevent the casserole from becoming soggy and ensures the pierogies are perfectly cooked inside the dish.
Can I Substitute the Cheeses?
Absolutely! You can swap cream cheese with mascarpone or ricotta for a different creaminess, and cheddar with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder melt. Just keep the cheese quantity similar for best results.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the casserole creamy and delicious.
Can I Add Vegetables or Meat to This Recipe?
Yes! Adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, cooked bacon, or sausage can boost flavor and heartiness. Just mix them in with the pierogies before baking.
