Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is the definition of simple comfort food. With just a handful of pantry staples, this hearty dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with satisfying flavor despite the minimal ingredients.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

frozen hash brownspackage of shredded cheddar cheesecan of cream of chicken soupcup of sour creamcrushed cornflakes or buttery crackers (for topping)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen hash browns, cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Mix until everything is evenly coated.

Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.

Sprinkle the crushed cornflakes or buttery crackers evenly over the top of the casserole.

Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbly.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesBaking time: 45-50 minutesTotal time: 55-60 minutes

Variations

Add chopped cooked chicken or ham to make it a full meal.

Mix in sautéed onions or green peppers for extra flavor.

Swap cheddar for a different cheese like Monterey Jack or Colby.

Use cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a twist on the base flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.To reheat, bake covered at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, but make sure to shred and squeeze out excess moisture first.

What can I use instead of cornflakes on top?
Buttery crackers like Ritz or even panko breadcrumbs work great.

Is it okay to use low-fat sour cream?
Yes, though full-fat gives the best creamy texture.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Do I need to thaw the hash browns?
No, they can be used straight from the freezer.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I add spices?
Definitely! Try garlic powder, paprika, or a pinch of cayenne for heat.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be if you use gluten-free soup and topping.

Conclusion

Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is a simple, satisfying dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just need a low-effort meal, this casserole is a down-home classic you’ll come back to again and again.

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