Recipe
Cheesy Spinach & Chicken Pierogi Casserole
Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 30 min
Serves: 8
This casserole is so fast and easy to make using frozen pierogies. It is similar to lasagna but takes a lot less effort and is a real crowd pleaser.
Contributed By: Developed for CFC by Nancy Guppy, RD, MHSc
Ingredients
2 tsp (10 mL)
olive oil
2 cups (500 mL)
onions, diced
1 lb (0.5 kg)
boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces 1/2 inch (1.25 cm)
3 cups (750 mL)
Marinara pasta sauce, low-sodium
2 lb (1 kg)
potato and cheese pierogies, frozen
10 oz (285 g)
frozen spinach, defrosted
2 cups (500 mL)
cheddar cheese, low-fat, shredded
1 tbsp (15 mL)
low-sodium sun-dried tomato & herb seasoning
1 tbsp (15 mL)
your favourite low-sodium seasoning
Instructions
1
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a large baking pan (16 x 12 inches – 40 x 30 cm) by spraying with vegetable oil cooking spray or coating with oil.
2
Heat oil over medium-high heat in a skillet. Dice the onions and cut the chicken breast into bite-size pieces – about ½ inch (1.25 cm) diced. Add to the skillet and cook through and until lightly browned - about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3
Spread 1 cup (250 mL) of sauce over bottom of baking pan. Top with the frozen pierogies arranging them flat side down.
4
Spread the package of defrosted spinach evenly over top of pierogies. It isn’t necessary to wring the spinach out.
5
Grate cheese. Mix in a bowl with herb seasoning. Sprinkle casserole with half the cheese.
6
Sprinkle chicken and onion mixture evenly over.
7
Pour over remaining 2 cups (500 mL) of Marinara sauce. Finish by sprinkling remaining cheese and herb mixture over top.
8
Bake uncovered in preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until heated through, pierogies are tender and cheese is lightly browned.