Cream Cheesy Pierogi Casserole

Mercy's Note:

I admit that I have never had a real pierogi, but I took samplings from many different casserole recipes, added some of my own touches and called it YUMMY. I hope this recipe gives the humble pierogi the respect that it deserves.

• Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 45 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 6

• 3 cups leftover mashed potatoes or 3 cups leftover garlic mashed potatoes
• 2 cups cheddar cheese , grated
• 8 ounces cream cheese , softened
• ½ lb bacon , raw and diced
• 2 cups chopped onions
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 12 ounces lasagna noodles , 18 noodles,cooked and drained
• salt and pepper , to taste

Directions:

1. Beat the mashed potatoes with the Cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese.
2. Saute the bacon and onions in the butter.
3. Add 1/3 of the onion mixture to the potato mixture and add salt and pepper, if necessary.
4. Generously grease a 9"x13" casserole pan.
5. Place a layer of lasagna noodles (6 noodles) in the bottom of the casserole, then spread half of the potato mixture over the noodles.
6. Repeat the layers and top with the remaining 6 noodles.
7. Pour the remaining onions, bacon and any pan drippings/fat over the top of the noodles.
8. Bake, covered, at 350°F for 35 to 40 minutes.
9. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and/or chives.