Dolly Partons 5 Ingredient Casserole Saves Dinner in 30 Minutes

Dolly Parton’s 5 Ingredient Casserole is a quick, simple, and tasty meal that feels like a warm hug on a busy night. With just five ingredients, this casserole combines creamy soup, cheese, a bit of seasoning, and usually some kind of meat and pasta or potatoes to make a hearty dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.

I love this recipe because it’s a real lifesaver when dinner needs to happen fast, but I still want something that tastes homemade and cozy. You don’t have to worry about a long list of ingredients or complicated steps — it’s all straightforward, which means I can whip it up in no time and get on with the rest of the evening.

Something about baking that cheesy, creamy mix in the oven gives the whole kitchen a cozy vibe that makes everyone gather around the table. I like to serve it with a simple green salad or some steamed veggies on the side to add a little freshness. It’s definitely a crowd-pleaser and perfect for those nights when you want dinner ready in a flash but still feel like you made something special.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground beef: This is the main protein and adds heartiness. I often use ground turkey for a lighter alternative. Both cook quickly and blend well with the creamy base.

Cream of chicken soup: This brings creaminess and flavor. You can swap it for cream of mushroom to suit your taste or use a homemade white sauce for a fresher option.

Cottage cheese: Adds creaminess and a bit of texture. For a smoother feel, try ricotta or Greek yogurt, but cottage cheese keeps it classic and adds protein.

Cheddar cheese: Go for sharp cheddar for bold flavor. You can mix in Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder, stretchy cheese top. Freshly shredded cheese melts best.

Diced green chilies: These add a mild, smoky heat and a nice bite. If you prefer no heat, swap for chopped green bell peppers or omit them altogether.

How Do You Make Sure the Casserole Is Creamy and Not Dry?

The trick here is balancing moisture and baking time.

• Brown your meat well and drain excess fat to prevent greasiness.
• Mix the soup and cottage cheese thoroughly with the meat; this creates a creamy base.
• Don’t overbake—25 to 30 minutes is enough to melt the cheese and heat it through without drying it out.
• Let it rest a few minutes before serving; the casserole will set and slice nicely.

Also, spreading the cheese evenly on top helps create a golden, bubbly crust that locks in moisture underneath.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet – perfect for browning the ground beef evenly and quickly.
• Mixing bowl – helps you easily combine all the ingredients for an even casserole mix.
• Spatula or large spoon – great for stirring and spreading the casserole mix in your baking dish.
• 9×13-inch casserole dish – roomy enough for the ingredients to bake evenly without spilling.
• Oven mitts – essential for safely handling the hot casserole dish when you take it out of the oven.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap ground turkey or chicken for beef to keep it lean but flavorful.
• Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat and spice.
• Mix in cooked rice or small pasta for added texture and to make it more filling.
• Stir in chopped spinach or mushrooms to sneak in some veggies and boost nutrition.

Dolly Parton’s 5 Ingredient Casserole Saves Dinner in 30 Minutes

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom)
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies, drained

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 to 30 minutes to bake, making the total time around 30 to 40 minutes. It’s a quick meal perfect for busy nights!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven and Cook Meat:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and fully cooked. Drain off any extra fat to keep it from being greasy.

2. Mix the Ingredients:

In a large bowl, stir together the cooked ground beef, cream of chicken soup, cottage cheese, and drained diced green chilies. Mix everything well to combine all the flavors evenly.

3. Assemble the Casserole:

Grease a casserole dish and pour the mixture inside, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the mixture for a cheesy crust.

4. Bake and Serve:

Bake the casserole uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned. Let it rest a few minutes before serving to help it set. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy casserole!

Can I Use Frozen Ground Meat for This Casserole?

Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and keeps the texture just right.

Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can mix all the ingredients and assemble the casserole a few hours ahead, then cover and refrigerate. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?

Definitely! Adding chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers works great. Just sauté them first to remove excess moisture before mixing into the casserole.