Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole

Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is the epitome of Southern charm—simple, satisfying, and soul-warming. With just five everyday ingredients, this dish brings comfort to the table in under an hour. Whether you’re channeling your inner Dolly or just need a quick and cozy weeknight dinner, this casserole delivers with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is a dream for busy cooks. It’s inexpensive, fuss-free, and totally customizable. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping comfort food for one, the simplicity and versatility will win you over. Plus, with only five ingredients, there’s no need for a long shopping list or complicated prep.

Pure Comfort

From the warm, bubbling cheese to the hearty meat and creamy base, every bite of this casserole hits that nostalgic comfort zone. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug from the inside—perfect for rainy days, Sunday suppers, or when life needs a little soothing.

Ingredients

• Ground beef
• Cream of mushroom soup
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Frozen tater tots
• Onion

That’s it! Simple and straight to the point, just like Dolly herself.

What You Need

You won’t need fancy kitchen tools for this one. Just the basics:

• A skillet for browning the beef
• A 9×13 inch baking dish
• A mixing spoon
• Oven mitts
• A cheese grater (if not using pre-shredded cheese)

Optional: a bowl for mixing, but you can layer directly in the dish too.

Time to Cook

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Steps to Make It

1. Brown the Beef
   Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain any excess fat. If you’re feeling extra, sauté the chopped onions with the beef until soft.
2. Mix or Layer
   In your baking dish, combine the cooked beef with cream of mushroom soup. Mix well or spread evenly. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
3. Add the Tots
   Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer across the top. No need to thaw them—they’ll crisp up beautifully in the oven.
4. Bake
   Place the dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 40–45 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
5. Serve Hot
   Let it cool slightly before serving. The creamy, cheesy center with crispy top is unbeatable.

Make It Perfect

To avoid a soggy bottom, make sure to drain the beef well. Want more crunch? Give the casserole a quick broil at the end. For extra creaminess, stir a splash of milk into the soup before mixing.

Mix It Up

Add chopped green beans, bell peppers, or corn for color and nutrients. Swap ground turkey or sausage for a twist. Want a spice kick? Sprinkle crushed red pepper or use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.

Perfect Partners

Serve with:

• A simple green salad with vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls
• Steamed broccoli or green beans

For dessert, a slice of warm apple pie or banana pudding keeps the Southern vibe strong.

Busy Day Hero

This casserole is your go-to when you’re short on time. Keep the ingredients on hand for a quick dinner rescue. Frozen ground beef? No problem. Just thaw in the microwave or run under cold water.

Work Ahead

You can fully assemble this casserole the night before. Store it in the fridge, covered, and bake when ready. Perfect for meal prep or having dinner ready after a long day.

Save Some For Later

Leftovers reheat like a charm. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.

Everyone’s Happy

Kids love the cheesy tots, adults love the heartiness, and everyone gets a warm, satisfying meal without complaints. It’s a family favorite with crowd-pleasing power.

Good For You Too

Add a layer of veggies or use low-sodium soup to lighten it up. Swap regular cheese for reduced-fat or use ground turkey for a leaner protein.

Easy Clean Up

With only one pan to brown and one dish to bake, cleanup is easy. Line your baking dish with parchment or foil for even faster post-dinner cleanup.

Switch It Up

Try a Tex-Mex version with taco seasoning and black beans. Go breakfast-style with crumbled sausage and scrambled eggs. The base is flexible—just like your dinner plans.

Simply Perfect

No frills, just flavor. Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is proof that you don’t need a lot to make something amazing. It’s humble, hearty, and simply perfect.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Use plant-based ground meat or sautéed mushrooms in place of beef.

2. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
You can, but the crispiness may vary. Parboil and cube them first for best results.

3. What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar is classic, but feel free to try mozzarella, Colby Jack, or a blend.

4. Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely. Assemble it uncooked, wrap tightly, and freeze. Bake from frozen with extra time.

5. What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
Cream of chicken or cream of celery are good alternatives. Or make a homemade white sauce.

6. How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soup and check the label on your tater tots.

7. Do I need to cook the onions first?
You don’t have to, but sautéing them with the beef adds flavor and softens their texture.

Conclusion

Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is a Southern staple that combines flavor, nostalgia, and ease. With minimal prep, simple ingredients, and comfort in every bite, this dish is a winner for weeknights, potlucks, or lazy Sundays. It’s hearty, homey, and just what the heart (and belly) needs. Dolly would definitely approve.

More Delicious Recipes to Try

If you loved making Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole, you’ll definitely want to explore more comforting, crowd-pleasing dishes! For a cheesy and savory twist, try the rich and creamy Million Dollar Chicken Casserole. Craving a nostalgic bite? The Hashbrown Casserole is a guaranteed winner at brunch or dinner. For something a little sweeter but equally simple, give this dreamy 4-Ingredient Banana Bread a go. Don’t miss out on the vibrant and surprisingly addictive Pineapple Casserole, or take your pasta night to the next level with the indulgent Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. These recipes pair wonderfully with Dolly’s casserole and are just as easy to whip up!

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