Here’s a solid version of Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole—a beloved, fuss-free comfort food that’s perfect for cozy dinners or feeding a hungry crowd.
Version 1: The Classic 5-Layer Casserole (Ground Beef, Potatoes & Veggies)
This is straightforward, rustic, and often credited directly to Dolly:
Ingredients:
1 lb lean ground beef (85–90%)
3 large russet potatoes, sliced ¼-inch thick
2 sweet onions, sliced ¼-inch thick
1 can diced tomatoes (ideally fire-roasted)
2 medium green bell peppers, diced
Plus salt & pepper to taste
Optional flair: 1 Tbsp diced butter, ½ tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp crushed red pepper, pepperoncini for garnish
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat (about 8 minutes), seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
Layer ingredients in this order: potatoes (seasoned and dotted with butter if using), beef, onions (season again), diced tomatoes, and bell peppers.
Cover tightly with foil and bake for 2 hours. Uncover and bake a little longer if you want a golden top. Let rest before serving.
This version delivers hearty, layered comfort straight from the oven.
Version 2: Creamy Chicken & Cracker Topped Casserole
A different, yet equally comforting take using chicken and a crunchy topping:
Ingredients:
3 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 sleeve buttery crackers (e.g. Ritz), crushed
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350 °F, grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
Mix together chicken, soup, and sour cream until smooth.
Spread half the mixture in the dish, top with half the cheese, then repeat with remaining mixture and cheese.
Sprinkle crushed crackers on top and bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
A creamy, cheesy delight with a satisfying crunch—super easy and weeknight-friendly.
Version 3: Ground Beef, Rice & Veggie Casserole
Another crowd-pleasing variation that combines beef, rice, and veggies:
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375 °F (190 °C). Grease a 9×9-inch dish.
Brown ground beef in a skillet, drain excess fat.
Stir in soup, cooked rice, and veggies. Transfer to baking dish.
Top with cheese, then bake 20–25 minutes until hot and bubbly. Optionally, broil 1–2 minutes for a crispier top. Let it stand for 5 minutes before serving.