Name: Dolly Parton's 5-Ingredient Casserole: Simple Comfort Food Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Shredded Cooked Chicken (Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.); 10.5 ounces Cream of Chicken Soup (Can be substituted with cream of mushroom or celery soup.); 1 cup Sour Cream (Full-fat is ideal for texture.); 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Grate your own for the best results.); 1 cup Buttery Round Crackers (Crushed) (Crushed Ritz crackers or buttered breadcrumbs can be used.)

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As the aroma of creamy goodness wafted through my kitchen, I felt an overwhelming sense of nostalgia. Inspired by Dolly Parton’s comforting culinary magic, I whipped up a delightful dish that has quickly become a go-to for bustling weeknights: Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole. This dish is surprisingly simple yet packs a flavorful punch, making it a perfect choice for everyone at the table, including those picky eaters! With just five ingredients, this budget-friendly casserole not only saves you precious grocery dollars but also delivers a hearty meal that can be easily customized to suit your family’s tastes. Whether you’re serving it at a potluck or enjoying it as a cozy dinner at home, this casserole is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. So, are you ready to dive into this creamy, cheesy delight? Let’s get cooking!

Why is this casserole a crowd favorite?

Simplicity at Its Best: With just five ingredients, you can whip up this effortless dish in no time.

Budget-Friendly: Perfect for families, this recipe doesn’t break the bank while delivering delicious comfort food.

Versatile & Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or try different proteins like turkey or ham to keep it fresh and exciting.

Perfect for Meal Prep: Assemble ahead of time and enjoy easy leftovers throughout the week.

Rich, Satisfying Flavor: Every bite showcases creamy goodness, reminiscent of classic Southern cooking, making it a hit at any gathering.

Whether you’re a fan of casseroles like Loaded Broccoli Casserole or another family favorite like Cheesy Broccoli Casserole, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home!

Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need for this creamy, comforting dish!

For the Casserole Base

Shredded Cooked Chicken – Adds protein and heartiness; rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
Cream of Chicken Soup – Provides creaminess and flavor; can be substituted with cream of mushroom or celery soup for variation.
Sour Cream – Contributes tanginess and richness; full-fat is ideal for texture, though reduced-fat options may also be used.

For the Topping

Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Offers bold flavor and gooey texture when melted; grate your own for the best results or use mozzarella for a milder taste.
Buttery Round Crackers (Crushed) – Acts as a crunchy topping; crushed Ritz crackers or buttered breadcrumbs can be used for added texture.

Dive into the warm, inviting world of Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole today!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add wide egg noodles and cook for about 6 minutes, or until al dente. You want them firm enough to hold their shape but tender enough to mix easily. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside while you prepare the creamy base for the casserole.

Step 2: Prepare the Base Mixture
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and sour cream, stirring until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. This combination will create a rich base for Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole. To enhance the flavor, fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing well until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Gently fold the cooked chicken and the drained noodles into your creamy mixture. Be careful not to smash the noodles as you combine everything, ensuring they are evenly coated in the sauce. This step is crucial for delivering that comforting and hearty flavor in every bite of your casserole.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. Carefully pour the chicken and noodle mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. This is where your casserole will bake to perfection, creating a delightful golden-brown crust atop the rich, creamy filling.

Step 5: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, allowing the melty goodness to form a delectable layer. For an extra crunchy texture, you can add a generous sprinkle of crushed buttery round crackers. This topping will give your dish a delightful contrast when baked.

Step 6: Bake
Place the casserole in a preheated oven set to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden in color. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is hot throughout and the top has developed a crispy, inviting texture that promises delicious comfort in every serving.

Step 7: Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This brief resting period allows the flavors to settle. You can enhance the presentation by garnishing with fresh parsley if desired. Now it’s time to dish out hearty servings of Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole for everyone to enjoy!

Make Ahead Options

These delicious Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casseroles are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance—just cover it tightly and refrigerate. This not only saves you time on busy weeknights but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through thoroughly. If you’re feeling proactive, you can even freeze an unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge prior to final baking, and you’ll have a comforting, homemade meal that’s just as delicious!

What to Serve with Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole

To complete your cozy meal experience, consider these delightful sides and treats that perfectly complement this creamy, cheesy casserole.

Crisp Green Salad: Adds freshness and crunch, balancing the richness of the casserole with vibrant veggies and a tangy dressing. A light citrus vinaigrette can really lift the flavors!
Garlic Bread: This warm, buttery favorite enhances the meal with its satisfying crunch and is perfect for scooping up any leftover casserole goodness. It’s simply irresistible!
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted to caramelized perfection provides a beautiful contrast in texture and flavor, rounding out the meal beautifully.
Cornbread: Light, sweet, and fluffy, cornbread complements the Southern roots of the casserole while adding a comforting bite that pairs seamlessly with the creamy dish.
Sweet Tea: A classic Southern beverage, sweet tea’s refreshing sweetness and slight tang will wash down every creamy bite with delight.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with warm, gooey cookies. They’re a family favorite and offer a nostalgic touch after a hearty dinner, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!

Expert Tips for Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole

Use Rotisserie Chicken: For convenience and flavor, picking up a rotisserie chicken makes prep quicker. Just shred and mix it in!
Watch the Noodles: Avoid mushy noodles by cooking them just al dente. Remember, they’ll continue to cook in the oven!
Customize Creaminess: Don’t skimp on the sour cream; it ensures a rich texture. Feel free to try low-fat alternatives, but the richness might decrease.
Perfect Bake Timing: Watch closely during the last few minutes of baking. You want a bubbly, golden top without drying out the casserole.
Make It Your Own: Add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor in this delicious casserole!

How to Store and Freeze Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole

Fridge: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions or the entire dish at 325°F, adding a splash of milk if needed.

Freezer: Unbaked casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Reheating: If reheating from frozen, add an additional 10–15 minutes to the baking time at 350°F until hot and bubbly.

Make-Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate the casserole a day in advance. Just remember to add 10 more minutes to the bake time for a deliciously creamy dish!

Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you tailor this dish to your family’s preferences and dietary needs!

Vegetarian Delight: Omit the chicken and load up on sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, or spinach for a veggie-packed version. The creamy base will still provide that comforting essence, making it delightful for non-meat lovers.
Protein Switch: Swap the chicken for cooked ground beef, turkey, or ham to change up the flavor without compromising on heartiness. Adding different proteins can give your casserole a whole new personality!
Cheese Options: Try using Pepper Jack for a zesty kick, or Gouda for that rich, smoky flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. A little cheese variation can elevate your casserole to gourmet!
Spicy Kick: Toss in some diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to spice things up. This flavorful twist can awaken your taste buds and bring an exciting new dimension to the comforting dish.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil before baking for a fragrant burst of flavor. The herbs will blend beautifully with the creamy ingredients and add a refreshing touch.
Gluten-Free Base: Use gluten-free pasta or crushed gluten-free crackers to suit dietary needs while maintaining that crunchy topping. Everyone deserves a slice of comfort, no matter their dietary restrictions!

For more delightful casserole inspirations, consider checking out recipes like Cheesy Broccoli Casserole that can be customized just like this one, or the flavorful Hamburger Potato Casserole for those who enjoy hearty meals!

Dairy-Free Option: Substitute sour cream and cheese with cashew cream and nutritional yeast for a delicious dairy-free version. This swap keeps the comfort intact while catering to lactose sensitivities.

Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for the casserole?
Absolutely! For this dish, I highly recommend using shredded cooked chicken from a rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor. If you prefer, you can also boil or bake your own chicken before shredding it, ensuring that it’s fully cooked and seasoned to your liking.

How should I store leftovers?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm individual portions or the entire dish at 325°F (163°C), adding a splash of milk or broth if it seems a bit dry. This will help retain its creamy texture!

Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can definitely freeze Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and it will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bake as instructed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if necessary.

What can I do if my casserole is too dry?
Very! If you notice that your casserole comes out a bit dry, it could be due to overcooked noodles or not enough creaminess. Always make sure to cook your noodles al dente, and don’t hesitate to add a touch more sour cream or cream of chicken soup. If you find yourself in this situation, mix in a splash of chicken broth or a dollop of sour cream just before serving to bring back that luscious texture.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
It’s important! If you’re serving this casserole to guests, be mindful of any dietary restrictions. For instance, if someone has a dairy allergy, you might want to use dairy-free alternatives for the cream of chicken soup and sour cream. Additionally, this casserole can easily be made vegetarian by omitting the chicken or swapping in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or any other favorite veggies for a nutritious twist.

Can I prepare the casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. After mixing all your ingredients and placing the mixture in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Just remember to add about 10 minutes to the bake time when you cook it straight from the fridge to ensure it heats through properly.