If you love pierogies loaded with buttery potatoes, melty cheese, and crispy bacon, this casserole version is about to become your new favorite comfort food. Bacon Pierogi Casserole takes everything you adore about classic pierogies and turns it into an easy, oven-baked dish that’s rich, hearty, and incredibly satisfying. With layers of tender pierogies, creamy sauce, sharp cheese, and smoky bacon, this recipe is perfect for cozy dinners, potlucks, or whenever you need serious comfort on a plate.
It’s indulgent, crowd-pleasing, and surprisingly simple to make.
Why Bacon Pierogi Casserole Is So Popular
All the Pierogi Flavor, Half the Work
No boiling and pan-frying pierogies one by one—this casserole lets the oven do the work while the flavors meld together beautifully.
Perfect for Busy Nights
- Simple ingredients
- Easy assembly
- Family-friendly
- Great for leftovers
Ingredients You’ll Need
Bacon Pierogi Casserole Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Frozen potato & cheese pierogies | 16–20 oz | Base of the casserole |
| Bacon (cooked & crumbled) | 8 slices | Smoky crunch |
| Butter | 3 tbsp | Richness |
| Onion (diced) | 1 medium | Savory depth |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | Aromatics |
| Sour cream | 1 cup | Creamy tang |
| Heavy cream or milk | ½ cup | Sauce balance |
| Cream cheese (softened) | 4 oz | Extra creaminess |
| Cheddar cheese (shredded) | 2 cups | Cheesy flavor |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | Seasoning |
| Green onions | Optional | Fresh garnish |
How to Make Bacon Pierogi Casserole
1. 1. Prepare the Pierogies
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Arrange the frozen pierogies in a single, even layer in the dish. There’s no need to thaw them first—baking from frozen helps them stay tender inside while absorbing the creamy sauce as they cook.
👉 Pro Tip: Spread pierogies evenly so every piece gets coated with sauce.
2. Build the Creamy Sauce
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant—avoid browning.
Reduce heat to low, then stir in the sour cream, softened cream cheese, and milk. Whisk gently until the mixture becomes smooth, rich, and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
👉 Texture Tip: Make sure the cream cheese is softened so it melts smoothly without lumps.
3. Assemble the Casserole
Pour the warm, creamy sauce evenly over the pierogies. Gently toss or spread the sauce so all the pierogies are well coated.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, followed by the crumbled cooked bacon. This layering ensures cheesy richness with bacon in every bite.
👉 Flavor Tip: Use sharp cheddar for a stronger, more savory flavor.
4. Bake
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. This allows the pierogies to cook through and absorb the sauce without drying out.
Remove the foil and return the casserole to the oven for another 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
👉 Visual Cue: The casserole should be bubbling around the edges and slightly browned on top.
5. Rest and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes serving easier.
Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh, bright finish. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Bacon Pierogi Casserole
Pro Tips
- Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor
- Don’t overbake—pierogies should stay tender
- Add bacon after sauce for even distribution
- Let casserole rest before serving
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Baking uncovered the entire time
- Using low-fat dairy (less creamy)
- Skipping seasoning
Variations & Substitutions
Easy Customizations
- Add sautéed mushrooms
- Use smoked gouda or mozzarella
- Add kielbasa slices
- Stir in spinach before baking
Lighter Options
- Use milk instead of cream
- Reduce cheese slightly
- Add more onions and vegetables
What to Serve With Bacon Pierogi Casserole
- Simple green salad
- Steamed green beans
- Roasted broccoli
- Pickles or sauerkraut
Storage & Reheating
Storage
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing
Freeze fully baked casserole for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat covered in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Bacon Pierogi Casserole be made ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble up to 24 hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate before baking.
Do I need to boil the pierogies first?
No. Frozen pierogies cook perfectly in the oven.
Can I use fresh pierogies?
Yes—reduce baking time slightly.
Is this casserole very rich?
It’s indulgent, but you can lighten it by reducing cheese or using milk.
Conclusion
If you’re craving rich, cheesy comfort food with minimal effort, Bacon Pierogi Casserole is a must-make. It combines the soul of classic pierogies with the ease of a baked casserole, delivering big flavor, creamy texture, and irresistible bacon in every bite. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or cozy nights in.