Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole

When I first stumbled upon Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole, I couldn’t believe how simple yet comforting it sounded. As a fan of both easy recipes and Dolly herself, this dish was a must-try. I was intrigued by how five simple ingredients could come together to create such a hearty, satisfying casserole.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It’s the kind of meal you can whip up on a busy weeknight, yet still feel like you’re indulging in something hearty and homey. I remember the first time I made it—my kitchen filled with the aroma of melted cheese and savory goodness, and before I knew it, my family was gathered around the table, diving into seconds.

Dolly’s casserole doesn’t require hours in the kitchen or fancy ingredients. It’s a recipe that proves sometimes the best meals are the simplest ones, made with love and shared with those you cherish most.

Short Description

Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is a quick, comforting dish made with ground beef (or turkey), creamy mushroom soup, diced tomatoes, onion soup mix, and cheddar cheese. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that combines savory flavors in every bite.

Key Ingredients

• 1 pound of ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
• 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 package (1 ounce) dry onion soup mix
• 1 bag (6 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese

Tools Needed

• Large skillet
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Spoon or spatula for stirring
• Can opener

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey/chicken) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from being too greasy, and you can even use leaner meat to make it lighter.

Step 2: Mix the Casserole Ingredients
Once the beef is cooked, transfer it into a large bowl. Add the condensed cream of mushroom soup, the undrained diced tomatoes, and the dry onion soup mix.

Stir everything together until well combined. The onion soup mix adds such a delicious depth of flavor, and the tomatoes give the casserole a nice tang. It’s an easy and delicious base!

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, making sure it covers the entire bottom of the dish.

Top the casserole with the shredded cheddar cheese, spreading it generously over the mixture. The cheese will melt beautifully and give the dish that gooey, comforting finish.

Step 4: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.

The casserole should be hot all the way through, and the aroma will make your mouth water!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: With just five ingredients, you can get this dish on the table in no time, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.

Flavor-packed: The combination of savory ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and zesty onion soup mix creates a rich flavor that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Cheesy Goodness: Who doesn’t love a dish topped with melted cheddar? The cheese adds the perfect finishing touch, making each bite irresistible.

Versatile: You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can even make it vegetarian by using plant-based ground meat and veggie broth in place of the soup.

Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this casserole. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

Mistake: Using greasy ground beef
Solution: Be sure to drain any excess fat after browning the beef. You can also opt for lean ground beef, turkey, or chicken to keep the casserole from being too greasy.

Mistake: Not draining the tomatoes
Solution: Make sure to keep the tomatoes undrained as the liquid helps the casserole stay moist, but don’t add extra liquid.

If you prefer a thicker casserole, you can reduce the amount of liquid by draining some of the tomatoes before adding them.

Mistake: Overcooking the casserole
Solution: Keep an eye on the casserole in the oven. Bake until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly. Overbaking can dry out the dish.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

– Serve as a main dish with a side of green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
– Pair with crusty bread to soak up any of the savory sauce left behind in the dish.
– For a more filling meal, serve alongside mashed potatoes or buttered noodles.
– To add some freshness, pair it with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a light beer.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing: This casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. For quicker reheating, use the microwave for 1-2 minutes per serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully as a lighter alternative to ground beef. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid from the meat after cooking.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day or two in advance. Simply assemble the casserole and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven!

3. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly and storing it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for the best results.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Of course! Cheddar cheese gives this casserole its signature flavor, but you can experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses.

5. How can I make the casserole spicier?
Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the casserole mixture or stir in some chopped jalapeños for a kick of heat.

Tips & Tricks

– If you like a crispy top, broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking.

– To make this dish even creamier, stir in a little sour cream or cream cheese into the mixture before baking.

Recipe Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with crumbled tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative. You can also use a vegetable broth-based cream of mushroom soup for added flavor.

Spicy Version: Add chopped green chilies or a diced jalapeño to the casserole for extra heat.

Cheesy Version: Mix in some mozzarella or Gouda cheese along with the cheddar for a richer, creamier casserole.

Final Thoughts

Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole doesn’t overcomplicate things. It’s simple, hearty, and full of flavor—a perfect balance of comfort and ease. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend meal, it delivers every time. With just a few ingredients, you can create something truly satisfying that everyone will enjoy.

Feel free to make it your own by swapping ingredients or adding extra flavor. This casserole will quickly become a reliable favorite in your kitchen. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel at home, no matter where you are.