There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a bubbling casserole on a cozy evening at home. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner with the family or a potluck dish to impress your neighbors, Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is the kind of heartwarming meal that brings people together.
Inspired by the queen of country herself—who’s just as famous for her love of Southern cooking as she is for her legendary voice—this casserole is a true tribute to simplicity and flavor. With just five pantry-friendly ingredients, it’s easy enough for beginner cooks and satisfying enough to become a family favorite. Think cheesy, creamy, buttery goodness wrapped in a golden, crunchy topping. Now that’s comfort food done right.
Why You’ll Love Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
If you’re looking for a quick, budget-friendly, and crowd-pleasing meal, this casserole checks all the boxes. It’s:
- ✅ Quick and easy to prepare – only 10 minutes of prep time.
- ✅ Made with just 5 ingredients – no fancy or hard-to-find items.
- ✅ Perfect for meal prepping – reheats like a dream.
- ✅ Kid-approved – cheesy and creamy flavors everyone enjoys.
- ✅ Customizable – easy to add your own flair or use what’s on hand.
Whether you’re feeding a busy household or hosting a last-minute dinner, this recipe has your back.
The Southern Charm Behind the Dish
Dolly Parton is known not just for her music and philanthropy, but also for her deep love of traditional Southern food. Her cookbooks and interviews often reflect the simple yet soulful cooking she grew up with in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. This 5-ingredient casserole embodies that same spirit—humble ingredients turned into something magical with just a little bit of love.
Southern casseroles have long been a staple at family gatherings, church socials, and Sunday suppers. They’re meant to nourish both the body and the soul, and Dolly’s version is no exception. It’s the kind of dish you imagine being served in a warm kitchen while music plays in the background and stories are shared around the table.
Ingredients: Only 5, but Packed with Flavor
You won’t believe how much flavor can come from just five ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut, or leftover grilled chicken if you have it. - 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
Adds a rich, savory base that binds the ingredients together. - 1 cup sour cream
Delivers a creamy tang that balances the saltiness of the cheese and crackers. - 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Sharp cheddar adds depth and gooey texture—half goes in the mix, half on top. - 1 sleeve buttery round crackers (like Ritz), crushed
Adds the signature buttery crunch that makes this casserole unforgettable.
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:
- Chopped green onions or fresh herbs
- A dash of garlic powder or black pepper
- A sprinkle of paprika for color
- Cooked bacon bits for smoky depth
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Dolly’s Casserole
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories per Serving: ~420
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter.
Step 2: Mix the Base Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
- Shredded cooked chicken
- Cream of chicken soup
- Sour cream
- 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese
Mix everything until it’s well blended and creamy. This forms the hearty base of your casserole.
Step 3: Layer It in the Dish
Spoon the mixture evenly into your greased baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth out the top so the casserole bakes evenly.
Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping
Sprinkle the crushed crackers evenly over the chicken mixture. This will create that irresistible, golden crunch on top.
Step 5: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the cracker topping.
Step 6: Bake
Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of Southern-style green beans.
Tips for the Perfect Casserole Every Time
- Use fresh shredded cheese rather than pre-packaged for better melt and flavor.
- Let the chicken cool before mixing with sour cream and soup—this prevents separation.
- Crush the crackers by hand in a sealed bag for a rustic texture, or use a food processor for finer crumbs.
- Double the recipe for potlucks or larger families—it’s easy to scale!
How to Store and Reheat
This casserole is just as delicious the next day, making it ideal for leftovers.
To Store:
- Let the casserole cool completely.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To Reheat:
- Microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.
- Or cover with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes, until heated through.
To Freeze:
- Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it.
- Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair With Dolly’s Casserole
This hearty dish stands strong on its own, but it also shines alongside a few classic Southern sides. Try these easy pairings:
- 🥗 Simple Garden Salad with vinaigrette
- 🥖 Buttered Cornbread or Biscuits
- 🌽 Sweet Corn on the Cob
- 🧄 Roasted Garlic Green Beans
- 🍑 Peach Cobbler or Banana Pudding for dessert
Serve it up with sweet tea or lemonade, and you’ve got yourself a meal straight out of a country song.
Make It Your Own: Easy Variations
Want to mix things up? Here are some easy twists to make the recipe your own:
Tex-Mex Version:
- Add taco seasoning to the chicken mixture.
- Mix in canned green chilies or corn.
- Use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
Veggie Boost:
- Add cooked broccoli, spinach, or peas for extra nutrients.
- Use cream of mushroom soup instead of chicken.
Low-Carb Option:
- Swap the crackers for crushed pork rinds or almond flour “bread” crumbs.
- Use full-fat sour cream and a sugar-free soup alternative.
Spicy Kick:
- Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
Why This Recipe Goes Viral (and Keeps Coming Back)
What makes Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole a fan favorite year after year?
It’s the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. In a world where everyone is busy, this recipe delivers homestyle flavor without the hassle. It’s shareable, freezer-friendly, and always a hit on social media—especially when served with a side of Dolly Parton charm.
It’s also deeply nostalgic. Many people grew up with similar dishes served at grandma’s table, and this recipe captures that same spirit—just with fewer ingredients and modern shortcuts.
Final Thoughts: A Taste of Southern Hospitality
In a time where overcomplicated recipes dominate, Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole brings it all back to what really matters: good food, shared with good people. Whether you’re a busy parent, a beginner cook, or just someone craving a little bit of cheesy comfort, this casserole is bound to hit the spot.
So go ahead, pull out that 9×13-inch dish, turn on your favorite Dolly track, and get cooking. You might just find yourself starting a new family tradition.