Crockpot Pierogi Casserole Sausage (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 1 (16 oz) package frozen pierogies (cheddar or potato-filled)
02 - 1 lb smoked sausage (kielbasa or Polish sausage), sliced
03 - 1 small onion, diced
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
06 - 1 cup sour cream
07 - 1/2 cup milk
08 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
09 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
10 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
11 - 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
12 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or parsley (for garnish)

# Instructions:

01 - Grease the slow cooker and layer half of the frozen pierogies. Add half of the sliced sausage and diced onion. Repeat with the remaining pierogies and sausage.
02 - In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic, Dijon mustard, black pepper, and paprika.
03 - Pour the sauce over the pierogi and sausage mixture. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours until heated through and bubbly.
04 - Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese on top. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes until melted.
05 - Sprinkle with dried thyme or parsley before serving. Serve hot with a side of sour cream or crusty bread.

# Notes:

01 - For added crunch, top with crispy bacon bits before serving.
02 - For a spicy twist, mix in ½ teaspoon cayenne or red pepper flakes.
03 - To lighten the dish, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.