Dolly Parton’s 5 Ingredient Casserole Recipe

Casseroles are an enduring favorite for family meals, and Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is no exception. With minimal ingredients and little prep work, this dish comes together in no time and packs a delicious punch of comfort food flavors. If you’ve ever visited Dolly’s Stampede in Pigeon Forge, you’ll know that this casserole is a standout, and now you can recreate it at home with ease.

The Story Behind Dolly Parton’s Casserole

This simple yet delicious casserole recipe comes from one of Dolly Parton’s cookbooks, a gift from the artist herself. It’s the perfect comfort dish that combines familiar ingredients to create something truly special. The recipe has gained serious popularity thanks to its ease and flavor, making it a family favorite that’s easy to whip up on busy days or when hosting a gathering.

What Makes Dolly Parton’s Casserole Special?

The beauty of Dolly’s 5-Ingredient Casserole lies in its simplicity. With just five ingredients, it’s the ultimate no-fuss dish that still delivers on flavor. The combination of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy textures in every bite is sure to make it a hit at your next meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole

To make this delicious casserole, gather these simple ingredients:

1 bag of frozen hashbrowns

1 can of cream of chicken soup

1 cup sour cream

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup butter

These pantry staples come together to create a comforting casserole that’s packed with cheesy goodness and an irresistible crunchy topping. It’s a straightforward recipe that even beginners in the kitchen can handle.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Dolly Parton’s Casserole

Here’s how to prepare this easy, delicious casserole:

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Casserole Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen hashbrowns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until well combined.

Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it evenly.

Add Butter: Dot the top of the casserole with small pieces of butter. This will melt into the dish while baking, adding richness and flavor.

Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it as a side dish or a hearty main course!

Why This Casserole is a Winner

Dolly Parton’s casserole is an ideal choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. It’s simple, filling, and has a crowd-pleasing combination of flavors. The creamy texture from the soup and sour cream pairs perfectly with the crispy, cheesy top. It’s a dish everyone can enjoy, young or old.

Toppings and Add-Ins to Customize Your Casserole

While this casserole is great as-is, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your tastes. Consider these ideas:

Bacon Bits: For an extra savory touch, sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the casserole before baking.

Green Onions: Add a burst of color and flavor with some sliced green onions on top.

Garlic: Incorporate some garlic powder or fresh minced garlic for a more robust flavor profile.

Peppers: Green or red bell peppers can add sweetness and crunch.

Vegetables: For a healthier twist, you can mix in frozen peas, carrots, or broccoli.

How to Make Dolly Parton’s Casserole Ahead of Time

One of the best features of this casserole is its ability to be prepped in advance. Here’s how you can prepare it ahead of time:

Assemble the Casserole: Follow all the steps up until transferring the mixture into the casserole dish. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Refrigerate: Store the casserole in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Bake When Ready: When you’re ready to bake, remove the casserole from the fridge, let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes, and then bake as directed.

How to Reheat Leftovers

If you have any leftover casserole, don’t worry—this dish reheats beautifully:

In the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the casserole with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

In the Microwave: Place individual portions of casserole in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 2-3 minutes or until hot.

Perfect Pairings for Dolly Parton’s Casserole

While this casserole is a meal on its own, pairing it with other dishes can turn it into a complete, well-rounded meal. Here are some ideas:

Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance the richness of the casserole.

Roasted Vegetables: Serve with some roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots for a healthy side.

Grilled Meat: Chicken, pork chops, or a juicy steak would pair perfectly with the creamy casserole.

The Popularity of Dolly Parton’s Casserole

Since its inclusion in Dolly Parton’s cookbook, this 5-Ingredient Casserole has been a huge hit with fans. It’s easy to see why—it’s delicious, simple, and takes little time to prepare. Whether you’re a Dolly fan or not, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite in your home.

Why This Recipe is Ideal for Busy Days

On hectic days when you’re pressed for time but still want something hearty and satisfying, Dolly Parton’s casserole is the answer. The minimal prep work and quick baking time make it the perfect dish for busy people who still want to enjoy a homemade meal.

Conclusion: A Delicious and Simple Casserole for Every Occasion

Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is a testament to the idea that simple ingredients can create incredible flavor. With just a few pantry staples, you can make a comforting, creamy, and cheesy casserole that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole will surely be a hit every time. So why not give it a try today?

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