Dolly Parton’s 5 Ingredient Casserole is a true lifesaver when you need a quick and comforting meal on the table. It’s made with just five simple ingredients but packs a delicious punch with a creamy, cheesy texture and a hint of savory goodness. This casserole is perfect for those busy nights when you don’t have much time but still want something homemade and satisfying.
I love how simple this recipe is to toss together, and it always feels like a little treat without the fuss. My favorite part is how easily it comes together with pantry staples—no complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients. It’s a dish that even picky eaters tend to enjoy, which makes it a go-to in my house when I want something everyone will like without stress.
One of my favorite ways to serve this casserole is with a fresh side salad or some steamed veggies to add a bit of crunch and color to the plate. It’s also great for leftovers, as it heats up nicely the next day. Whenever I make this, I feel like I’ve got a little secret ingredient in my back pocket – quick, easy, and super tasty dinners are possible, thanks to Dolly!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds a hearty, savory base. If you want a lighter or leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian twist, cooked lentils or plant-based ground meat work well.
Egg Noodles: They give softness and comfort. You can swap in other pasta like macaroni, rotini, or penne if needed. Just be sure to cook them al dente so they don’t get too mushy in the bake.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This creamy soup binds everything together and adds flavor. Don’t have mushroom? Cream of chicken or celery soup are fine substitutes. Or use a homemade white sauce for a fresher feel.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar melts beautifully here, making the casserole creamy and gooey. Use sharp or mild cheddar based on your taste. Monterey Jack or mozzarella can be swapped in for different flavors.
Sour Cream: It adds tangy creaminess and helps keep the casserole moist. You can use plain Greek yogurt for a healthier swap or crème fraîche if you want a richer taste.
How Do You Get the Cheese Melted and Bubbly on Top?
The golden cheese crust is a key part of this casserole’s appeal. Here’s how to nail it every time:
- Reserve some shredded cheese for topping. Spread it evenly over the casserole before baking.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) so the cheese melts fully and starts to brown.
- For extra browning, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
- Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking helps the cheese set slightly and makes serving easier.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the ground beef evenly without crowding the pan.
- Large mixing bowl – makes it easy to combine the ingredients without spills.
- 9×13 inch casserole dish – roomy enough for the casserole to bake and bubble up nicely.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring the mixture gently and scraping the bowl clean.
- Colander – handy for draining the cooked egg noodles quickly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein without losing flavor.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or diced bell peppers for extra veggies and a little crunch.
- Mix in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chili powder to give the casserole a mild smoky or spicy kick.
- Top with mozzarella or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a different cheesy twist.
Dolly Parton’s 5 Ingredient Casserole Saves Dinner in 30 Minutes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz egg noodles, cooked and drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake, making it ready to enjoy in about 30-35 minutes total. A quick and hearty dinner solution!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ground Beef:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
2. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese (reserve about ½ cup for topping), and sour cream. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined. Then, stir in the cooked ground beef evenly.
3. Bake the Casserole:
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
4. Cool and Serve:
Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set up a bit for easier serving. Enjoy your warm, creamy, and cheesy dinner that’s ready in a flash!
Equipment You’ll Need:
- Large skillet for cooking the ground beef
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13 inch casserole dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Colander for draining noodles
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins:
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or diced bell peppers for extra veggies.
- Stir in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chili powder for a smoky or spicy kick.
- Try mozzarella or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a different cheesy flavor.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Casserole?
Yes, just be sure to fully thaw the ground beef in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and prevents excess moisture in the casserole.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Can I Substitute Sour Cream in This Recipe?
You can substitute plain Greek yogurt for sour cream to reduce fat and add a bit of protein. The flavor will be similar, and it keeps the casserole creamy and moist.
