An unexpected chill swept through the kitchen as I searched my pantry for dinner inspiration, and that’s when the magic happened. I stumbled upon the comforting ingredients for Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole, and suddenly, the warmth of Southern cooking filled my heart. This delightful dish combines just five key components into a creamy, cheesy wonder that can be prepped in under an hour. Not only is it a breeze to throw together on busy weeknights, but it’s also a budget-friendly meal that the whole family will adore. With its customizable nature, you can easily mix in whatever you have on hand—imagine the possibilities! Ready to create a comforting masterpiece that’s sure to bring smiles around your dinner table? Let’s dive in!
Why is this casserole so lovable?
Simplicity: With just five ingredients, Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole makes cooking a stress-free experience, perfect for busy evenings.
Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or switch the protein to create a dish that suits your family’s taste.
Crowd-pleaser: A creamy, cheesy delight that appeals to all ages, making it ideal for potlucks and family gatherings.
Time-saving: Ready in under an hour, it ensures you can enjoy a hearty meal without spending the whole evening in the kitchen.
Budget-friendly: Utilizes affordable pantry staples, allowing you to create a comforting dish without breaking the bank. For more ideas on quick family meals, check out Cowboy Casserole Savory and Sour Cream Casserole.
Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Ingredients
• For the Casserole
- Egg Noodles – These provide essential structure and texture; use wide egg noodles and cook al dente to prevent mushiness.
- Cream of Chicken Soup – Adds a delicious creaminess; substitute with cream of mushroom for a different flavor if desired.
- Sour Cream – Contributes tanginess and richness; full-fat works best, though reduced-fat can also do the trick.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Delivers that bold, cheesy flavor we love; grate your own for optimal melting, or mix in Monterey Jack for a twist.
- Rotisserie Chicken – Adds heartiness and protein; for a vegetarian option, try sautéed veggies like mushrooms or spinach instead.
• Optional Add-Ins
- Vegetables – Incorporate broccoli or peas for added nutrition and color to your casserole.
- Protein Swaps – Change up the protein with cooked ground beef, turkey, or ham for a new flavor experience.
- Spices – Consider mixing in cayenne pepper or spicy cheese varieties for a savory kick.
- Crunchy Topping – Top with crushed crackers or French fried onions for an irresistible crunch.
This simple yet customizable recipe showcases the heart of comfort food with Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole, perfect for creating a filling family meal.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
Step 1: Cook Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add wide egg noodles. Cook for about 6 minutes until they are al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, drain the noodles in a colander and set them aside, allowing any excess moisture to escape.
Step 2: Prepare Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy goodness of cream of chicken soup and sour cream. Stir until the mixture is smooth and uniform, then fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese. This creates a thick, luscious base that will coat your noodles beautifully.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Gently fold the drained egg noodles into the creamy mixture along with the shredded rotisserie chicken. Ensure every noodle is coated in the rich sauce, creating a homely, comforting texture. Take a moment to relish how deliciously cheesy it looks as you mix.
Step 4: Transfer to Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Once ready, spread the noodle and chicken mixture evenly in the dish, layering it gently to ensure even cooking and mingling of flavors.
Step 5: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese generously over the casserole. Make sure to cover every inch; this will melt beautifully, creating a golden-brown crust that is simply irresistible as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are bubbling and the cheese has turned a lovely golden color, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.
Step 7: Serve
Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy the heartwarming goodness of Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole with family and friends!
What to Serve with Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
Enhance your family dinner with delightful sides that bring out the comforting essence of this creamy casserole.
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Crisp Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette offers a light contrast to the richness of the casserole.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks bring a warm, inviting element to the table, perfect for dipping into creamy goodness.
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Southern Collard Greens: These tender greens add a nutritious touch and a hint of bitterness that beautifully balances the cheesy dish.
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Cornbread Muffins: Sweet and crumbly cornbread complements the casserole’s creaminess, creating a classic Southern pairing that everyone loves.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini yield sweetness and vibrant color, making every bite feel wholesome and satisfying.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a burst of brightness and a touch of sweetness, rounding out the meal deliciously.
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Iced Sweet Tea: This classic Southern drink pairs wonderfully, quenching your thirst while enhancing the comfort food vibes.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note with warm, gooey cookies that will bring smiles and laughter around the table.
Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this casserole to suit your taste preferences and pantry!
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Vegetable Boost: Add broccoli or peas to enhance nutrition and color, making every bite a little more vibrant. Your family will love the added crunch!
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Protein Swap: Substitute the rotisserie chicken with cooked ground beef, turkey, or ham for a different protein twist. Each option brings its unique flavor, keeping mealtime exciting.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in cayenne pepper or spicy cheese varieties for a little heat. This twist elevates the dish from comforting to crave-worthy, perfect for spice lovers.
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Creamy Alternative: Replace the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom for a different taste dimension. This small modification gives it a rich, earthy flavor that is wonderfully satisfying.
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Crunchy Toppings: Consider topping your casserole with crushed crackers or French fried onions before baking for an extra crispy finish. This crunchy layer adds delightful texture with each bite.
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Cheese Variation: While cheddar is classic, mixing in Monterey Jack or pepper jack can create an exciting flavor profile. Imagine the gooey, melty bliss that these cheeses bring!
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Plant-Based Option: Swap out chicken for sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a delicious vegetarian casserole. It’s still hearty, ensuring no one misses the meat!
For more hearty options, check out my Cowboy Casserole Savory or treat your family to the delightful flavors of Sour Cream Casserole.
Expert Tips for Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
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Perfect Noodle Texture: Always cook the egg noodles al dente. This prevents them from becoming mushy as they bake and helps maintain that delightful texture in your casserole.
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Flavor Boost: Lightly season the cooked noodles with salt and pepper before mixing. This simple step can elevate the overall flavor of Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole.
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Make Ahead: If you’re preparing the casserole a day in advance, cover and refrigerate it. Note that you may need to increase baking time by about 10 minutes if baked directly from the fridge.
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Freezer Friendly: For an easy meal prep option, freeze the unbaked casserole. Just remember to thaw it overnight before cooking to preserve the texture and taste.
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Cheese Variations: While cheddar is classic, experimenting with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack can create exciting flavor profiles for your casserole.
Storage Tips for Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy the comfort of Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole even after the initial meal.
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Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the casserole (unbaked or baked) for up to 2 months. Make sure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
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Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, adding a splash of milk or broth to maintain moisture if needed. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave, covering the dish to retain steam.
Make Ahead Options
Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance by assembling the noodles, chicken, and creamy mixture, then refrigerating it in a covered dish before baking. To maintain quality, ensure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent drying out. When ready to bake, simply pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 extra minutes, and enjoy a hearty meal that is just as delicious as when freshly made. This make-ahead option means you can enjoy comforting Southern flavors with minimal last-minute effort, allowing you to relax and savor your time with family!
Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of egg noodles are best for this casserole?
Absolutely! For Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole, I recommend using wide egg noodles. Cooking them al dente (about 6 minutes) is key to ensuring they don’t become mushy during baking.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Very! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you can revisit the creamy comfort of your casserole without any hassle.
Can I freeze Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole?
You certainly can! It’s best to freeze the unbaked casserole for optimal texture. To do this, prepare the casserole as instructed, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.
What if my noodles are too soft after baking?
If your noodles turn out soft, it’s usually an indication they were overcooked initially or cooked for too long in the casserole. For better control, make sure to cook the noodles just until al dente, and keep an eye on the baking time. If they seem soft, consider using less cooking time next round or even trying a different brand of egg noodles that holds up better.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, here are some alternatives you can consider: for gluten-free options, use gluten-free pasta; for a vegetarian meal, opt for sautéed mushrooms or spinach in place of rotisserie chicken; and if you are watching your caloric intake, low-fat sour cream and cream of chicken soup can be used without compromising too much on flavor!
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just remember the cooking time might increase by about 10 minutes, especially if it’s taken directly from the fridge. Enjoy your flavorful and easy meal!
Dolly Parton's 5-Ingredient Casserole: Easy, Hearty Comfort Food
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add wide egg noodles. Cook for about 6 minutes until they are al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, drain the noodles in a colander and set them aside, allowing any excess moisture to escape.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and sour cream. Stir until the mixture is smooth and uniform, then fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Gently fold the drained egg noodles into the creamy mixture along with the shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while greasing a 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread the noodle and chicken mixture evenly in the dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese generously over the casserole.
- Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
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