Dolly Parton’s 5 Ingredient Casserole is a true lifesaver when dinner needs to come together fast. It’s a simple and hearty dish packed with familiar ingredients that create a cozy, comforting meal everyone will enjoy. With only five ingredients, it’s easy to make but still feels like a home-cooked favorite.
I love how effortless this casserole is—no complicated prep or fancy steps, just straightforward ingredients that come together in one dish. It’s one of those recipes I keep handy for busy weeknights when I want something tasty on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it always reminds me of the kind of warm, no-fuss meals that bring everyone to the table faster.
My favorite way to serve it is with a simple side salad or some steamed veggies to keep things fresh and balanced. This casserole is so filling and flavorful on its own, though, that sometimes I just scoop out a big helping and call it a night. It’s that kind of dependable recipe that makes dinner feel a little easier and a lot more comforting.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the base of the casserole, bringing that hearty flavor and texture. If you want a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. For a vegetarian twist, try cooked lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute.
Egg Noodles: They give the casserole a soft, comforting bite. You can swap in any pasta shape you like, such as rotini or penne. If you prefer gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and cook it just until al dente.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor. Cream of chicken soup is a great substitute if you prefer. For a homemade touch, mix sour cream or cream cheese with a little broth and seasoning.
Sour Cream: It gives a nice tang and creaminess. If you want a lighter option, plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute, adding protein while keeping that creamy texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds rich cheesiness. Feel free to use mild cheddar, Colby, or Monterey Jack depending on your taste. For a dairy-free version, try a plant-based shredded cheese.
How Do You Get the Perfect Golden, Melty Cheese Topping?
The cheese topping is what makes this casserole extra inviting. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Spread the shredded cheddar evenly on top to ensure every bite has cheesy goodness.
- Bake the casserole uncovered so the cheese has space to melt and brown nicely.
- Watch the oven closely toward the end of baking—once the cheese is bubbly and starts turning golden, it’s ready.
- For an extra golden crust, you can broil the last 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Letting the casserole rest a few minutes after baking helps the cheese set a little, making it easier to serve without losing that lovely cheesy top.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the ground beef evenly and draining the fat easily.
- Large pot – to boil the egg noodles until just tender without sticking.
- Mixing bowl – to combine all the ingredients smoothly before baking.
- 9×13 inch baking dish – roomy enough to hold the casserole and bake it evenly.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – to stir and spread the casserole mixture in the dish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner casserole option that still tastes great.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or diced bell peppers for extra veggies and a flavor boost.
- Mix in 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits for a smoky twist that adds crunch.
- Try shredded mozzarella or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a different cheesy flavor.
Dolly Parton’s 5 Ingredient Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to bake, so you can have a warm, comforting dinner ready in around 30 minutes total. It’s a quick and easy meal for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Noodles and Ground Beef:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are tender but still firm (al dente). Drain the noodles well and set them aside. While the noodles cook, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it into small pieces as it cooks. Once cooked through, drain any excess fat.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned ground beef, cooked egg noodles, cream of mushroom soup, and sour cream. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Bake and Serve:
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread the mixture evenly inside. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Once done, let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you like, then serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Casserole?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the ground beef before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. This helps the beef cook evenly and prevents excess moisture in the casserole.
Can I Make Dolly Parton’s 5 Ingredient Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, bake it a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through and the cheese is bubbly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can add a splash of milk while reheating to keep it creamy.
Can I Substitute the Sour Cream?
Yes! Plain Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute for sour cream, adding a similar creamy texture with a bit more protein. Just use it in the same amount as the recipe calls for sour cream.
