Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Recipe | Easy Comfort Food Dinner
Make Dolly Parton’s 5-ingredient casserole for an easy, comforting dinner. Creamy, cheesy, and hearty — this simple recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family meals.
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.