Description
Comfort meets excitement in this crack chicken pierogi casserole, blending creamy textures with zesty flavors. Polish-inspired ingredients create a hearty meal that promises warmth and satisfaction for anyone craving a delicious dinner shortcut.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 (16 ounces / 453 grams) packages frozen classic cheddar pierogies, thawed
- 3 cups chopped cooked chicken
- 2 (15 ounces / 425 grams) jars alfredo sauce
Protein Additions:
- 3/4 cup cooked chopped bacon
Seasoning and Cheese:
- 2 to 3 tablespoons ranch dressing mix
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by coating it with a light layer of non-stick spray, ensuring complete surface coverage.
- Mix the Alfredo sauce, shredded chicken, crispy bacon bits, half of the cheddar cheese, and Ranch seasoning in a spacious mixing bowl until thoroughly combined.
- Gently fold the frozen pierogies into the creamy mixture, ensuring each pierogi is evenly coated with the flavorful sauce.
- Transfer the sauced pierogies to the prepared baking dish, spreading them in an even layer to promote consistent heating.
- Generously sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese across the top of the casserole, creating a golden, melty surface.
- Place the uncovered dish in a preheated oven at 375°F and bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-7 minutes to allow the sauce to set and cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with optional chopped green onions or fresh parsley for added color and fresh flavor if desired.
Notes
- Customize the casserole by using gluten-free pierogies and ensuring all ingredients are gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
- Enhance flavor by using rotisserie chicken for a more intense, pre-seasoned meat that adds depth to the dish.
- Reduce sodium and calories by selecting low-fat Ranch dressing mix and using turkey bacon as a lighter alternative to traditional bacon.
- Prep ahead by assembling the casserole earlier in the day and refrigerating, then baking when ready to serve for maximum convenience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 980 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 39 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg