Description
This Dolly Parton-inspired 5-Ingredient Casserole is a Southern comfort classic made with simple pantry staples. It’s creamy, cheesy, hearty, and family-friendly—perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings.
Ingredients
-
1 lb ground beef
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
Instructions
-
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. -
Cook the Beef and Onions
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onions until fully cooked. Drain excess grease. -
Mix the Base Layer
Spread the cooked beef and onion mixture evenly into the baking dish. Pour the cream of mushroom soup over the top and stir to combine slightly. -
Add Cheese and Tater Tots
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture. Then layer the frozen tater tots in a single layer across the top. -
Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy and the casserole is bubbling. -
Cool and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
You can substitute cream of mushroom with cream of chicken or a homemade white sauce. For a spicy twist, add taco seasoning to the beef or swap cheddar for pepper jack. This casserole can be prepped ahead and stored in the fridge overnight before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Southern, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Dolly Parton casserole, 5-ingredient casserole, Southern comfort food, tater tot casserole, weeknight casserole, easy ground beef recipe, cheesy casserole