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Looking for a no-fuss, deeply comforting dinner that’s as legendary as Dolly herself? Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is the kind of dish that brings people together with its creamy texture, cheesy topping, and heartwarming simplicity. This easy baked casserole has made waves online thanks to its minimal ingredients and maximum flavor—perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or lazy Sundays.
Inspired by Southern charm and straightforward home cooking, this dish reflects Dolly’s down-to-earth approach to life: keep it simple, make it tasty, and share it with love.
Why You’ll Love This Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Recipe
There’s a reason this recipe has become a household staple for fans of comfort food:
- Only 5 ingredients: No complicated prep or shopping lists.
- Quick to make: Comes together in under 10 minutes before baking.
- Crowd-pleasing comfort: Creamy, cheesy, crunchy—what’s not to love?
- Budget-friendly: Pantry staples make this dish easy on your wallet.
- Perfect for beginners: Foolproof and nearly impossible to mess up.
Ingredients Needed for Perfect Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
Here’s what gives this simple casserole its magical, comforting flavor:
- Shredded Chicken – Provides hearty protein and a meaty base that soaks up flavor.
- Cream of Chicken Soup – Adds a creamy, savory binder that brings everything together.
- Sour Cream – Enhances richness with a subtle tang that balances the dish.
- Ritz Crackers – Crushed on top for that irresistible buttery crunch.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts into gooey, golden perfection for a classic finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Mix the Base
In a large bowl, stir together the cooked shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream until smooth and well combined.
3. Spread It Out
Evenly spread the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish using a spatula.
4. Top with Crunch and Cheese
Sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers over the chicken mixture. Then top with a layer of shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Expert Tip: For extra crunch, drizzle 2 tablespoons of melted butter over the crushed crackers before baking.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Add veggies: Mix in some thawed peas, carrots, or broccoli for a boost of color and nutrients.
- Make it spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to the filling.
- Swap the protein: Try rotisserie turkey or canned tuna for a new twist.
- Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free cream soup and substitute GF crackers.
- Make it ahead: Assemble in the morning, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
How to Store & Reheat
Storing:
Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or store in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes. For best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly.
Similar Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re a fan of Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole, you’ll definitely want to try these other comforting, crowd-pleasing casseroles! Whether you’re craving something hearty, cheesy, or sweet, these favorites will hit the spot:
- Poor Man’s Husband Casserole – A budget-friendly baked dish layered with noodles, beef, and creamy goodness.
- Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole – Loaded with beef, gooey cheese, and fluffy rice for the ultimate one-pan comfort meal.
- Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe – A sweet and savory Southern classic topped with marshmallows and pecans.
These casseroles are perfect for meal prep, busy weeknights, or feeding a hungry crowd—just like Dolly’s famous dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use canned chicken in this recipe?
Yes! Canned chicken works great in a pinch—just drain it well before mixing.
What kind of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar gives the most flavor, but Colby-Jack or mozzarella also work nicely.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, tightly wrap it with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole proves that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to make something incredibly satisfying. It’s creamy, cheesy, crispy, and packed with Southern charm—just like Dolly herself. Try it for dinner tonight and share the love with family or friends.
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Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers crushed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream until combined.
- Spread mixture evenly in the prepared dish.
- Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers over the top.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese as the final layer.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until hot, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.