Laura Mariano
Introduction to Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
Few dishes embody comfort food with country charm quite like Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole. Simple, hearty, and family-friendly, it’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug at the dinner table. Dolly Parton’s recipes resonate because they reflect her down-to-earth personality—straightforward, nourishing, and made for sharing.
This casserole is built on just five pantry staples, making it approachable for busy weeknights or beginner cooks. With minimal effort, you can create a dish that’s bubbling, golden, and packed with flavor. It’s the kind of recipe that doesn’t require fancy techniques or exotic ingredients—just wholesome basics that come together beautifully.
The magic lies in its simplicity: tender chicken or beef, creamy soup, tangy sour cream, shredded cheese, and a hearty base like noodles or hash browns. Baked until golden and bubbly, it’s a dish that delivers maximum comfort with minimal fuss.
The Appeal of 5-Ingredient Recipes
Five-ingredient recipes are beloved for their practicality. They prove that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create something delicious. With fewer steps and less prep, they’re perfect for busy families, beginner cooks, or anyone craving comfort food without the hassle.
Dolly Parton’s casserole embodies this appeal—it’s nostalgic, home-style cooking at its finest. The flavors are familiar, the ingredients are accessible, and the result is a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable. It’s proof that simplicity often leads to the most satisfying meals.
Flavor Profile Breakdown
- Creamy base: Rich and comforting, thanks to cream of mushroom or chicken soup.
- Savory notes: Garlic, onion, or seasoning blends add depth.
- Cheesy topping: Shredded cheddar or Parmesan melts into a golden crust.
- Protein: Chicken or beef provides heartiness.
- Optional extras: Fresh herbs, bacon, or green onions for added flavor.
Together, these elements create a casserole that’s creamy, savory, cheesy, and deeply satisfying.
Ingredient Breakdown
Core five ingredients (based on popular versions):
- Protein: Chicken or ground beef for substance.
- Soup: Cream of mushroom or chicken soup for creaminess.
- Dairy: Sour cream or cottage cheese for tang and richness.
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar or Parmesan for melty topping.
- Base: Egg noodles or hash browns for structure.
Tip: Always use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor.
Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Recipe | Easy Comfort Food Dinner
Equipment
- Skillet (for cooking protein)
- Large mixing bowl
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken (shredded) or ground beef
- 1 can cream of mushroom or chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream or cottage cheese
- 2 cups freshly shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz egg noodles (cooked) or 3 cups thawed hash browns
- Optional: parsley, green onions, or bacon for garnish
Instructions
- Cook base: Prepare noodles according to package instructions or thaw hash browns.
- Cook protein: Brown ground beef or cook shredded chicken until done. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Mix creamy filling: In a bowl, combine soup and sour cream until smooth.
- Assemble casserole: In a greased baking dish, layer noodles/hash browns, protein, and creamy mixture. Stir gently.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle evenly with shredded cheddar or Parmesan.
- Bake: Place in preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Rest for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley or green onions, and enjoy.
Notes
- Tip: Use freshly shredded cheese for best melt and flavor.
- Make-ahead: Assemble casserole up to 24 hours in advance; refrigerate and bake fresh.
- Variations: Try Tex-Mex with beans and jalapeños, or breakfast-style with hash browns and eggs.
- Serving idea: Pair with salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
