- Preheat Oven and Prepare Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re including sauerkraut in your recipe, make sure it’s well-drained.
- Cook Onion and Bacon:
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and cook the chopped onion until soft and translucent. Add the cooked, crumbled bacon to the skillet and mix well. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Casserole Base:
- In a large bowl, combine the can of soup, milk, and sour cream. Stir until well mixed. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re using sauerkraut, fold it into this mixture.
- Layer the Casserole:
- Spread a thin layer of the soup mixture at the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange a single layer of frozen pierogies on top.
- Sprinkle half of the onion and bacon mixture over the pierogies, then cover with half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
- Repeat the layers starting with the pierogies, followed by the remaining onion and bacon, and the rest of the cheese.
- Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Let the casserole stand for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. Garnish with chopped green onions or chives before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
This casserole is hearty and rich, making it a complete meal on its own. However, if you’re looking to add sides, consider serving it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. A dollop of sour cream on top or a side of apple sauce can also complement the flavors beautifully.
Tips:
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of pierogies for this recipe. Potato and cheese pierogies are a classic choice, but onion, spinach, or even meat-filled pierogies can also work well.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just add a few minutes to the baking time if you’re cooking it straight from the fridge.
Cheesy Pierogi Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic dish, offering all the flavors you love in a convenient and easy-to-make form. Perfect for busy weeknights, special occasions, or whenever you’re in the mood for something comforting and delicious.