I like this recipe because it’s rich, filling, and incredibly comforting. I enjoy how the layers come together like a lasagna but taste just like homemade pierogies. I also appreciate how simple it is to assemble, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever I’m craving something warm and satisfying.
Ingredients
(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)
3 tbsp unsalted butter 3 cups yellow onions chopped 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 12 cooked lasagna noodles 6 cups mashed potatoes 5 strips smoked turkey cooked and crumbled salt and pepper
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 350℉ and greasing a deep 9×13-inch casserole dish. In a skillet over medium heat, I melt the butter and sauté the chopped onions until they turn translucent and begin to brown, then set them aside.
I mix the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses together in a bowl. I lay three lasagna noodles lengthwise in the bottom of the casserole dish, then spread one-third of the mashed potatoes over them. I add one-third of the onions and sprinkle a quarter of the cheese on top. I repeat these layers two more times.
I finish with a final layer of noodles, then top everything with the cooked smoked turkey and the remaining cheddar cheese. I season with salt and pepper, cover the dish with foil, and bake for 30 minutes. After removing the foil, I bake it for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. I let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
I usually get 8 servings from this casserole. The prep time is about 20 minutes, the cook time is around 40 minutes, and the total time comes to about 1 hour.
Variations
I sometimes add sautéed mushrooms or shredded cooked chicken between the layers for extra heartiness. I also like using smoked cheddar for a deeper flavor. When I want a little tang, I serve it with a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle chopped chives on top.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
I often use leftover mashed potatoes, and they work perfectly in this recipe.
Do I have to caramelize the onions?
I find that lightly caramelized onions add the best flavor, but I can cook them less if I’m short on time.
Can I make this ahead of time?
I like assembling it ahead, covering it, and baking it just before serving.
What works best for the savory topping?
I use cooked smoked turkey, which adds a rich, savory flavor.
Can I freeze pierogi lasagna?
I freeze it after baking and cooling, though the texture of the potatoes may soften slightly.
Do I need to cook the noodles first?
I always cook the lasagna noodles before layering so they’re tender.
Can I add more cheese?
I sometimes add extra cheese because I love a gooey casserole.
Is this dish very salty?
I season lightly and adjust salt depending on how seasoned the mashed potatoes are.
What can I serve with pierogi lasagna?
I usually serve it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
Why let it rest before serving?
I let it rest so the layers set and slice more cleanly.
Conclusion
I find this pierogi lasagna to be the ultimate comfort food mashup. I love how it delivers all the flavors of classic pierogies in an easy, crowd-pleasing casserole. Every time I make it, it turns out warm, cheesy, and deeply satisfying.
A hearty pierogi-inspired lasagna layered with creamy mashed potatoes, caramelized onions, smoked turkey, and melted cheese for a cozy, crowd-pleasing comfort food casserole.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cups yellow onions, chopped
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
12 lasagna noodles, cooked
6 cups mashed potatoes
5 strips smoked turkey, cooked and crumbled
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a deep 9×13-inch casserole dish.
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the chopped onions until translucent and lightly browned. Set aside.
In a bowl, combine the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
Lay three lasagna noodles lengthwise in the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
Spread one-third of the mashed potatoes over the noodles.
Top with one-third of the sautéed onions and sprinkle with one-quarter of the cheese mixture.
Repeat the layering process two more times.
Add a final layer of noodles, then top with the smoked turkey and remaining cheese.
Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly in this recipe.
Lightly caramelized onions add the best depth of flavor.
Letting the casserole rest helps the layers set for cleaner slices.
Serve with sour cream or chives for a classic pierogi-style finish.