Recipe for a slow cooker dish with pierogies and sausage.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Slice the Sausage: Begin by slicing your smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using kielbasa, you can slice it into rounds or half-moons.
2. Dice the Onion and Mince the Garlic: Chop the onion and garlic, which will add depth and flavor to your dish.

Step 2: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

1. Layer the Ingredients: In your slow cooker, layer the sliced sausage, frozen pierogies, diced onion, minced garlic, and fresh spinach.
2. Add Broth and Seasoning: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring all the ingredients are submerged. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring gently to combine.

Step 3: Cook the Dish

1. Set the Slow Cooker: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will meld together.
2. Check for Doneness: About 30 minutes before serving, check the pierogies and sausage for doneness. The pierogies should be heated through, and the sausage should be warmed and infused with flavor.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Scoop and Serve: Once everything is cooked, give the mixture a gentle stir and taste for seasoning, adjusting as needed.
2. Garnish (Optional): Serve the dish in bowls and top with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped chives, or a handful of grated cheese for extra richness.
3. Pair with Sides: This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.

Tips for Success

• Choose Quality Sausage: The flavor of the sausage will significantly impact the overall taste of the dish, so opt for a high-quality smoked sausage.
• Frozen vs. Fresh Pierogies: Frozen pierogies work best in this recipe, as they hold their shape during the long cooking process. If using fresh pierogies, reduce the cooking time slightly.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to customize the dish with additional vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Depending on the type of sausage you use, you may want to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Spicy sausage may require less added spice.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Pierogies and Sausage is a delightful, comforting dish that brings together rich flavors and hearty ingredients in one easy-to-make recipe. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit. With minimal preparation and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or whenever you crave a satisfying meal. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a warm bowl of comfort!