Cream Cheesy Pierogi Casserole: A Comforting Twist on a Classic Dish
A true crowd-pleaser that elevates a classic to a whole new level, this Cream Cheesy Pierogi Casserole brings together the rich, creamy flavors of mashed potatoes, cheddar, and cream cheese, with the savory crunch of bacon and onions, all layered between soft lasagna noodles. Though it may not be a traditional pierogi, this casserole embodies all the comforting flavors that make pierogis so loved. Perfect for a family dinner or to impress at your next potluck, this dish is a simple, yet indulgent take on a beloved favorite.
Recipe Information
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Recipe Category | Potato Casserole |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 45 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 5 minutes |
| Recipe Yield | Serves 6 |
| Calories | 828.9 kcal |
| Recipe Keywords | Vegetable, Oven, <4 Hours, Inexpensive |
| Nutritional Info | High in fat and protein, hearty and satisfying |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mashed potatoes | 3 cups |
| Cheddar cheese | 2 cups |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz (softened) |
| Bacon | 1/2 lb |
| Onions | 2 medium, diced |
| Butter | 3 tablespoons |
| Lasagna noodles | 12 (cooked and drained) |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 828.9 kcal |
| Total Fat | 50 g |
| Saturated Fat | 26 g |
| Cholesterol | 124.2 mg |
| Sodium | 1023.4 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 68.1 g |
| Fiber | 4.2 g |
| Sugar | 5.2 g |
| Protein | 26.6 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Potato Mixture: Begin by mashing the potatoes until smooth. Beat the mashed potatoes together with the shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese until the mixture is creamy and well-combined. This will create the rich, cheesy base for your casserole.
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Cook the Bacon and Onions: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook them until they are soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the bacon to the pan and cook until it’s crispy, allowing the bacon fat to render out and combine with the onions for added flavor. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
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Combine Potato and Onion Mixtures: Add one-third of the cooked bacon and onion mixture into the creamy potato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients. This step adds a burst of flavor to the creamy potato base.
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Prepare the Baking Dish: Generously grease a 9″x13″ casserole dish with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
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Layer the Casserole: Start by laying 6 lasagna noodles at the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Spread half of the creamy potato mixture evenly over the noodles, smoothing it out to cover all the noodles. Add another layer of noodles (6 more noodles) on top of the potato mixture.
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Finish with Bacon and Onions: Pour the remaining bacon, onions, and any leftover bacon drippings over the top of the casserole. This will add extra flavor and richness to the top layer.
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Bake the Casserole: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the noodles are tender. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once done, remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool slightly. Serve with a dollop of sour cream on top and garnish with freshly chopped chives for a burst of freshness and flavor. This dish is perfect for family dinners or as a side for a festive meal.
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. If baking from cold, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cook time.
- Add Vegetables: For a veggie-packed twist, consider adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even peas into the potato mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Vegan Adaptation: Replace the cream cheese and cheddar with plant-based alternatives, and swap the bacon for a vegan sausage or smoky tempeh for a vegan version of this dish.
- Make it Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to the potato mixture for a bit of heat.
- Leftovers: This casserole makes great leftovers and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
This Cream Cheesy Pierogi Casserole is a simple, flavorful dish that brings comfort and indulgence to any meal. With layers of creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, and melty cheese, it’s a winning choice for a satisfying dinner that will please the whole family. Try it out today and discover why it’s quickly becoming a new favorite in the kitchen!
