Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
If you’re in the mood for something cozy, cheesy, and effortlessly delicious, this Dolly Parton-inspired 5-Ingredient Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With tender pasta, hearty ground beef, creamy cheese, and a crispy topping, it’s the kind of dish that brings comfort with every bite—perfect for hectic weeknights or casual family meals.
Whether you’re embracing a bit of Southern comfort or just need a no-fuss dinner idea, this casserole brings bold flavor with barely any prep.
🧂 What You’ll Need (Serves 4–6)
Main Ingredients
- Ground beef – 1 lb (or substitute with ground turkey for a leaner version)
- Elbow macaroni – 1 (16 oz) package
- Shredded cheddar cheese – 2 cups (or mix it up with Monterey Jack or Parmesan)
- Cream of chicken soup – 1 (10.5 oz) can (or use cream of mushroom for a twist)
- Milk – ½ cup (whole milk or half-and-half works great)
Optional Toppings
- Crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs – For that extra crunch
- Fresh chopped parsley – For a pop of color and freshness
👩🍳 How to Make It
1. Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the Beef and Pasta
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
- Meanwhile, boil the pasta until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Combine Everything
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cooked beef, drained pasta, shredded cheese, soup, and milk until fully combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the top with crushed chips or breadcrumbs if using.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until it’s bubbly and lightly golden on top.
- For a crispier topping, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes, but keep a close eye on it!
5. Serve It Up
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Pair with a green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
🌟 Quick Tips
- Go Fresh: Shredding your own cheese and using good-quality ground meat really elevates the flavor.
- Change It Up: Swap in sausage, ground turkey, or meatless crumbles for variety.
- Add Some Veg: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms, chopped spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Store Leftovers: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
This dish is all about simplicity and heart, just like Dolly herself. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug on a plate—easy to make, easy to love.
