If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, crave-worthy dish that will have everyone asking for seconds, let me introduce you to the magic of Crack Chicken Pierogi Casserole: Creamy, Cheesy & Addictive Recipe. This casserole perfectly marries tender chicken, smoky bacon, creamy Alfredo sauce, and classic cheddar pierogies into one spectacularly cheesy, rich, and soul-satisfying meal. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends, this dish is a total winner that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Crack Chicken Pierogi Casserole: Creamy, Cheesy & Addictive Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a critical role in achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the pillowy pierogies to the savory chicken and bacon, every item comes together effortlessly to create comfort food magic.
- Frozen Classic Cheddar Pierogies (2 packages, 16 oz each): These form the hearty, chewy base that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
- Alfredo sauce (2 jars, 15 oz each): A rich and velvety sauce that binds all the elements with luscious creaminess.
- Cooked chicken (3 cups, chopped): Tender, protein-packed pieces that add substance and a savory note to the casserole.
- Cooked chopped bacon (3/4 cup): Crispy, smoky bits that contrast beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Ranch dressing mix (2 to 3 tablespoons): Adds a subtle tang and blend of herbs to elevate the overall flavor profile.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups): Melts to form an irresistible golden crust and extra cheesy layers inside.
How to Make Crack Chicken Pierogi Casserole: Creamy, Cheesy & Addictive Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Start by heating your oven to 375ºF and lightly spraying a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This simple prep ensures the casserole doesn’t stick and bakes evenly for a perfectly browned top layer.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Filling
In a large bowl, combine the Alfredo sauce, chopped cooked chicken, crispy cooked bacon, half a cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and the ranch dressing mix. Stir until everything is perfectly blended, then Toss in the thawed pierogies, making sure each one is evenly coated with the creamy, flavorful mixture.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer your coated pierogie mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese generously over the top to promise that gooey, cheesy crust that we all love.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole uncovered for 35 to 45 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and turn golden, while the sauce bubbles away perfectly beneath. You’ll know it’s done when you see a lightly browned cheese crust and a hot, fragrant aroma filling your kitchen.
How to Serve Crack Chicken Pierogi Casserole: Creamy, Cheesy & Addictive Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate presentation and flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top. The pop of fresh herbs adds a splash of color and a crisp bite that cuts through the creamy richness wonderfully.
Side Dishes
Serve this casserole alongside a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal veggies to balance the decadent flavors. A simple cucumber and tomato salad with a light vinaigrette can be a refreshing partner to this rich dish.
Creative Ways to Present
You can portion this casserole into individual ramekins as impressive personal servings or layer it in a clear glass dish for a visual of the cheesy, saucy layers. Either way, it’s a guaranteed conversation starter at your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Crack Chicken Pierogi Casserole: Creamy, Cheesy & Addictive Recipe, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld beautifully overnight making the next day’s meal even better.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well, so you can make it ahead of time. To freeze, fully assemble in a freezer-safe dish but don’t bake. Wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking as instructed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350ºF for about 20 minutes or until warmed through and bubbly. You can also microwave individual portions, though oven reheating preserves the delicious crust better.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh pierogies will work wonderfully and might even have a slightly different texture, but either way, the casserole will be deliciously creamy and cheesy.
What type of chicken is best to use?
Leftover cooked chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even poached chicken breast work perfectly here. The key is chopped bite-sized pieces for even distribution.
Is ranch dressing mix necessary?
While optional, the ranch dressing mix adds a hint of herbal and tangy depth that really elevates the overall flavor; it’s a small ingredient with a big impact!
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, but you’ll need to find gluten-free pierogies or substitute with another gluten-free pasta or dumpling. Just ensure the Alfredo sauce and ranch mix are also gluten-free.
How spicy is this casserole?
This recipe is mild and comforting, making it perfect for all taste buds. You can add a pinch of cayenne or some sliced jalapeños if you want to add a little kick.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Crack Chicken Pierogi Casserole: Creamy, Cheesy & Addictive Recipe, it’s bound to become one of your go-to comfort foods. It’s easy to make, irresistibly creamy, and bursting with savory flavors. Whether for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to revisit time and time again. So don’t wait – grab those pierogies and get baking!
Print
Crack Chicken Pierogi Casserole: Creamy, Cheesy & Addictive Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crack Chicken Pierogi Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and addictive comfort food dish that layers tender cheddar pierogies with a savory mixture of chicken, bacon, Alfredo sauce, and ranch seasoning. Baked to perfection and topped with melted cheddar cheese, this casserole is an easy dinner option perfect for family meals or potlucks.
Ingredients
Frozen Pierogies
- 2 (16-oz) packages frozen Classic Cheddar Pierogies, thawed
Sauce & Seasoning
- 2 (15-oz) jars Alfredo sauce
- 2 to 3 tablespoons ranch dressing mix
Protein & Cheese
- 3 cups chopped cooked chicken
- 3/4 cup cooked chopped bacon
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375ºF (190ºC). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking, then set it aside for later use.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the Alfredo sauce, chopped cooked chicken, cooked chopped bacon, 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and ranch dressing mix. Stir until well blended. Add the thawed pierogies to the bowl and toss everything together gently until all the pierogies are evenly coated with the sauce mixture.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the coated pierogie mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top to create a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35 to 45 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top, and the casserole is heated through.
Notes
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle some chopped green onions or parsley on top before serving.
- Make sure the pierogies are thawed before mixing to ensure even cooking.
- Feel free to substitute cooked chicken with rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- You can prepare this casserole a few hours ahead and refrigerate before baking; increase bake time slightly if baking from cold.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
