Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe moment I pulled that bubbling casserole from the oven, the intoxicating aroma swept through my kitchen and transported me straight to the heart of the South. Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Cheesy Casserole is my go-to for those hectic weeknights and the perfect potluck showstopper. With just five simple ingredients, this dish is not only incredibly easy to whip up, but it’s also budget-friendly, making it a smart choice for family meals without sacrificing flavor. Creamy and rich, each layer envelops you in warmth like a comforting hug, while the customizable nature ensures it pleases even the pickiest eaters. Are you ready to discover the joy and simplicity of this delightful casserole? Why is this casserole a must-try? Simplicity at its core, Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole transforms your dinner routine into a stress-free experience, needing minimal effort for maximum flavor. Family-friendly and budget-conscious, it’s a hit among kids and adults alike—perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests. Versatile to your liking, swap in different proteins or veggies for a unique twist every time. Comforting and creamy, each bite offers a taste of Southern hospitality that feels like a warm embrace. Don’t forget, it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or your favorite Southern sides for a complete meal! Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Ingredients • Here’s everything you need for this crowd-pleasing dish! For the Casserole Base Egg Noodles – These provide structure and a tender texture; be sure to cook them until al dente to avoid sogginess. Cream of Chicken Soup – This adds creaminess and a savory depth of flavor; you can substitute with cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a different taste. Sour Cream – Introduces tanginess and richness; using full-fat version yields the best texture, but reduced-fat can be used as a lighter option. For the Cheesy Layer Shredded Cheddar Cheese – This offers a bold flavor and smooth melting; using freshly grated cheese enhances creaminess—mix it with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for variation. For the Protein Cooked Chicken (rotisserie recommended) – This provides heartiness; for a vegetarian twist, omit it or replace with an array of sautéed vegetables. Explore the flavors and warmth of Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole as you whip up this deliciously comforting dish! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Step 1: Cook Noodles Begin by filling a large pot with water and adding a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil and add the egg noodles. Cook them until al dente, about 6 minutes. Once they’re just tender, drain the noodles in a colander and set them aside to cool slightly while you prepare the creamy mixture. Step 2: Mix Base In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir vigorously until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended. This creamy base will be the heart of your Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole, adding richness and flavor throughout. Step 3: Combine Ingredients Gently fold the cooked noodles and shredded cooked chicken into the creamy mixture. Use a spatula to ensure that every noodle is coated with the creamy goodness. This step is crucial for achieving that delicious, comforting flavor in your casserole. Step 4: Prepare Baking Dish Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking, ensuring your casserole comes out perfectly after baking. Pour the noodle mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula for even cooking and to create a delightful golden crust on top. Step 5: Add Topping Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the casserole mixture. For an extra crunchy layer, consider mixing crushed Ritz crackers with a tablespoon of melted butter and scattering that over the cheese before baking. This adds a delicious texture contrast to your casserole. Step 6: Bake Place the casserole in a preheated oven set to 350°F (175°C). Bake it for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. You’ll know it’s ready when the whole kitchen is filled with that irresistible aroma, signaling that it’s time to enjoy your homemade comfort food. Step 7: Serve After baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and watch your loved ones delight in this comforting dish of Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole! Expert Tips for Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Flavor Boost: Season the noodles: Before mixing, add salt and pepper to the boiled noodles for extra flavor depth that enhances the overall taste of the casserole. Make Ahead: Assemble in advance: You can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Just cover tightly and bake it for an extra 10 minutes to warm through. Freezing Tips: Store for later: If you want to enjoy this dish later, freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking. Prevent Sogginess: Don’t overcook noodles: Par-cook the egg noodles to keep them firm. This helps achieve the ideal texture without sogginess in your Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole. Ingredient Substitutions: Customize flavors: Feel free to swap chicken for proteins like turkey or ham, or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for a nutritious twist. Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this delightful casserole to suit your taste buds! Vegetable Addition: Incorporate colorful veggies like peas or broccoli for a nutrition boost and vibrant presentation. They add a delightful crunch and flavor. Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with ground beef, turkey, or ham for a hearty twist. Each option brings its own unique savory notes! Spicing It Up: For those who like a little heat, sprinkle in cayenne pepper or add jalapeños. The subtle kick will heighten the flavor profile beautifully. Herb Flavoring: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives can uplift the dish. A sprinkle of fresh green adds a lovely pop of color and an aromatic touch. Top it Differently: Try different crunchy toppings like French fried onions or seasoned breadcrumbs for added texture and flavor contrast. Change it up for a fun surprise! Dairy-Free Delight: Use dairy-free cream of chicken soup and vegan cheese to create a creamy casserole that everyone can enjoy without dairy. Cheesy Variants: Mix in or replace cheddar with pepper jack or Gouda for a flavor-filled adventure. These cheeses create a delightful melty experience! Pasta Alternatives: Swap egg noodles for cooked quinoa or whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist, maintaining the heartiness while adding nutrition. Each of these variations allows you to tailor your dish uniquely, ensuring everyone leaves the table with smiles—just like Dolly would want! Make Ahead Options Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is a fantastic meal prep solution for busy weeknights! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that’s just as delicious when baked. If you’d prefer, you can also freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. To maintain quality, ensure the noodles are only par-cooked and keep the creamy base plentiful to prevent dryness. When you’re ready to bake, just remove it from the fridge (or thaw it overnight if frozen) and bake for an additional 10 minutes for a deliciously comforting meal. How to Store and Freeze Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk or broth to keep it creamy. Freezer: You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thawing: When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking to ensure even heating and the best texture in your Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole. Reheating: If reheating portions, cover with foil in the oven to keep it moist, and bake until heated through, about 15-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C). What to Serve with Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole The perfect meal deserves delightful companions that elevate the experience of your cozy dinner. Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole perfectly. Roasted Broccoli: The slight char and nutty flavor of roasted broccoli complement the creaminess of the casserole while adding a touch of health. Buttery Cornbread: Soft, warm cornbread with a drizzle of honey is a classic pairing that enhances the comforting Southern feel of the meal. Collard Greens: Stewed collards with a hint of spice create an authentic Southern vibe that pairs beautifully with Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread provides a satisfying texture contrast, and you can soak up any leftover creamy goodness from your plate. Sweet Tea: A glass of iced sweet tea offers a sugary, refreshing sip that rounds out your meal with a Southern flair. Dessert: Finish off with a slice of warm peach cobbler; its sweet, juicy flavors perfectly echo the comforting dish we’ve just enjoyed. Fruit Compote: A light fruit compote can cleanse the palate after the rich casserole, adding fresh and vibrant flavors to the meal. Crispy Fried Potatoes: Golden, crispy potatoes bring a delightful crunch and savory touch, enhancing the overall heartiness of the dinner. Fruit Punch: A colorful, fruity punch serves as a playful and refreshing accent, elevating the gathering’s festive spirit. Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Recipe FAQs What kind of egg noodles should I use for the casserole? I recommend using wide egg noodles as they provide a great texture and hold up well in the creamy sauce. Cook them until al dente, as overcooked noodles can become mushy in the casserole. How long can I store leftovers of this casserole? You can keep leftover Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to maintain its creamy texture. Can I freeze Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole? Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake it, thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking! How can I avoid the casserole turning out dry? To prevent dryness, be sure not to overcook the egg noodles—par-cooking them helps maintain their texture. Additionally, incorporating enough creamy ingredients, like the cream of chicken soup and sour cream, ensures moisture is locked in. What dietary adjustments can I make for this recipe? If you want a vegetarian option, simply omit the chicken and replace it with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. For a healthier twist, you can use reduced-fat sour cream and low-sodium soups. Always check for any allergens in the ingredients if you’re cooking for others. Can I use different proteins in this casserole? Very! You can swap out the chicken for ground turkey, ham, or even a combination of cooked beans for additional protein. Just make sure whatever you choose is cooked before adding to the casserole! Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Recipe FAQs Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole: A Cozy Dinner Delight Experience the warmth of Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole, a budget-friendly and comforting dish that's perfect for family meals and potluck gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: SouthernCalories: 370 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Casserole Base8 oz Egg Noodles Cook until al dente1 can Cream of Chicken Soup Can substitute with cream of mushroom or cream of celery1 cup Sour Cream Full-fat recommended for best textureFor the Cheesy Layer2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese Use freshly grated for better meltingFor the Protein2 cups Cooked Chicken Rotisserie recommended; can omit or replace with sautéed vegetables Equipment large potMedium mixing bowlSpatula9x13-inch baking dish Method Step-by-Step InstructionsFill a large pot with water, add salt, and bring to a boil. Cook the egg noodles until al dente, about 6 minutes. Drain and set aside.In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth.Fold the cooked noodles and shredded chicken into the creamy mixture until well coated.Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour the noodle mixture into the dish and spread evenly.Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Optionally, add crushed Ritz crackers mixed with butter for a crunchy topping.Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until golden and bubbly.Remove from the oven, let rest for 5 minutes, garnish if desired, and serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 370kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 24gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 900IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesThis casserole can be made ahead and frozen for later use. Reheat portions with foil in the oven to maintain moisture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
