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Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights and potluck gatherings. With just a handful of familiar kitchen staples, you get a bubbling cheesy casserole that feels like a warm hug from home. I have made this dish when I needed something easy, cozy, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table.
When I first tried this on a hectic school night, everyone went back for seconds and asked for it again the next week. The crunchy topping became my kids’ favorite part.
Ingredients
- Ground beef or turkey: Use quality ground meat with good color and minimal fat for the best flavor and texture
- Elbow macaroni: Choose small pasta shapes for even cooking and classic casserole bite
- Shredded cheddar cheese or cheese blend: Freshly shredded cheese melts smoother and tastes richer than pre-shredded options
- Cream of chicken soup or cream of mushroom: Look for a high quality brand with simple ingredients for the creamiest consistency
- Milk: Whole milk or half-and-half results in a silkier healthier sauce
- Crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs: This brings irresistible crunch and golden color opt for thicker cut kettle chips or homemade bread crumbs
- Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness when sprinkled over the casserole before serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the oven:
- Set your oven to 375 degrees F and grease your casserole dish so nothing sticks and cleanup stays easy
- Brown the meat and cook the pasta:
- Use a large skillet to brown your ground beef or turkey on medium until it is fully cooked and has no pink bits This usually takes about eight minutes Stir as you go and drain extra fat for a lighter result While the meat cooks boil your pasta until firm but not mushy then drain really well
- Mix the casserole base:
- In a spacious mixing bowl stir together the hot cooked pasta browned meat shredded cheese cream soup and milk Mix until everything is evenly coated with the creamy sauce
- Layer in the baking dish:
- Spread the entire mixture evenly in your prepared dish Smooth the top and sprinkle over your chosen crunchy topping for a fun finish
- Bake the casserole:
- Slide it into the oven and bake for about twenty five minutes or until you see bubbling edges and a hint of browning on top If you like a crispier crust place under the broiler for just a couple minutes and keep a close eye
- Rest and serve:
- Once baked let the casserole cool for ten minutes so it sets and is easier to scoop Sprinkle with fresh parsley and dish out generous helpings to your crew
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The cheese blend is my personal highlight in this recipe Try using a mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack for more flavor My family always gathers around the kitchen as it bakes because the aroma is that inviting
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and they stay fresh for up to three days. When reheating try adding a splash of milk to the serving to keep it creamy. I recommend oven reheating for a crispy top.
Ingredient Substitutions
Make this casserole with ground turkey or even a plant-based ground for a lighter twist. You can swap cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or cheddar soup for a tangy edge. Gluten free pasta works well but shorten the bake time so it does not overcook.
Serving Suggestions
Serve big squares alongside a crisp green salad or roasted broccoli for balance. If you want extra luxury add a fried egg on top or serve with a side of tangy pickles. This also packs well in lunchboxes.
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Cultural Context
Hearty casseroles like this one are classics in Southern kitchens where comfort and crowd pleasing dishes reign. Dolly Parton's version is a nod to the hospitality and simple flavors that define family tables across the South. I grew up eating variations of this with my own family for every potluck or chilly night.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use turkey or sausage instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey or sausage are great alternatives for lighter or different flavors. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- → What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
Cream of mushroom soup adds a richer taste, or use any preferred creamy condensed soup for variation.
- → How can I make the dish crunchier?
Sprinkle crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs over the top before baking to add satisfying crunch and texture.
- → Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or diced bell peppers blend well and boost nutrition and flavor depth.
- → What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and reheat gently before serving.
- → Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve, adding 5–10 minutes to the baking time.