Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dish: the Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole! This recipe is a true lifesaver when I’m short on time but still want something hearty and delicious. Inspired by the legendary Dolly Parton, it captures the essence of comfort food with just five simple ingredients. I love how it’s so easy to throw together—perfect for busy evenings when you just want to relax without sacrificing flavor. The creamy texture and cheesy topping make it feel indulgent, while the frozen mixed veggies sneak in some goodness. Trust me, once you try this casserole, it’ll become a staple in your home, just like it is in mine! So, grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 2 cups shredded cheese
How to Prepare Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole
Now let’s dive into the simple steps to whip up this delightful casserole! Trust me, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be making it in no time. Just follow along, and you’ll have a tasty dinner ready to go!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and turns out perfectly golden and bubbly. So, don’t skip this step!
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine your cooked, shredded chicken, the can of cream of chicken soup, and the sour cream. I like to use a spatula to really mix it together until it’s nice and creamy. Make sure everything is well combined; this is the base of your delicious casserole!
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Next, it’s time to add in the frozen mixed vegetables. Just pour them right into the bowl and stir everything together until it’s all well mixed. The veggies add a lovely pop of color and nutrition to the dish, so don’t be shy here!
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Now, grab a greased baking dish and pour your mixture into it. Spread it out evenly so it cooks nicely. I usually use a 9×13 inch dish, but whatever you have on hand will work just fine. Just make sure it’s greased to avoid any sticking!
Step 5: Top with Cheese
Here comes the best part—sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top of your casserole. This will melt into a deliciously gooey layer that adds a ton of flavor. I always use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for that perfect cheesy bite!
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Finally, pop the casserole into the oven and let it bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden. It’s such a comforting sight! Once it’s ready, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes before serving up that cheesy goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just five ingredients, this casserole comes together in a snap—perfect for those hectic weeknights!
- Deliciously Tasty: The combination of creamy chicken, cheesy goodness, and colorful vegetables creates a flavor explosion that everyone will love.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a crowd-pleaser that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy—my kids can’t get enough of it!
- Comfort Food: This dish is the epitome of comfort food, warming your heart and your belly with every cheesy, creamy bite.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready—so convenient!
- Flexible Ingredients: Feel free to customize it with whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand; it’s super versatile!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole turns out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips that I swear by:
- Use Fresh Vegetables: If you want to elevate the texture and flavor of your casserole, consider using fresh vegetables instead of frozen. They’ll add a delightful crunch and vibrant taste!
- Season to Taste: Don’t be afraid to season your mixture! A pinch of salt, pepper, or even a sprinkle of garlic powder can make all the difference in flavor. Taste as you go!
- Experiment with Cheese: While I love the classic cheddar and mozzarella combo, feel free to mix it up! Try pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for a smoky flavor.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your casserole during the last few minutes of baking. You want that cheese perfectly melted and bubbly, not burnt! If it starts getting too brown, cover it with foil.
- Let It Rest: After baking, let the casserole sit for about 5-10 minutes before digging in. This helps it set up nicely and makes serving easier!
- Make It a Meal: Pair your casserole with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal. It’s a great way to add some freshness!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a delicious casserole that’s sure to impress everyone at the dinner table. Enjoy the cooking process, and have fun with it!
Variations of the Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole
If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to switch things up, there are plenty of fun variations you can try with the Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole! Here are some tasty ideas that I love:
- Turkey Delight: Swap out the chicken for cooked turkey. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftovers from Thanksgiving or any roast!
- Veggie Explosion: Make it a veggie-packed dish by adding fresh or frozen broccoli, spinach, or even bell peppers. Just chop them up and toss them in!
- Spice It Up: Want a little kick? Add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the mixture. It’ll bring a whole new level of flavor!
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can elevate your casserole. Just chop a tablespoon or two and mix it in for a burst of freshness.
- Cheesy Twist: Experiment with different cheeses! Try adding Monterey Jack, pepper jack for heat, or even a bit of feta for a tangy twist. The cheese combinations are endless!
- Swap the Soup: Instead of cream of chicken soup, you could use cream of mushroom or even a cheese soup for a richer flavor profile.
- Protein Power: Add black beans or chickpeas for an extra protein boost—great if you’re looking for something hearty and filling!
These variations are just a starting point—feel free to get creative and make this casserole your own! The best part about this recipe is its versatility, so don’t hesitate to experiment and find your perfect combination. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve got some leftovers of that delicious Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole? Lucky you! Storing it properly will keep those cheesy, comforting flavors intact for your next meal. Here’s how I do it:
- Storage: Let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can also cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days—just make sure it’s well sealed to avoid drying out!
- Freezing: If you want to save it for a later date, you can freeze the casserole! Just make sure it’s cooled down, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It should last for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Now, onto reheating! You can either use the oven or the microwave:
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in a baking dish, cover it with foil to prevent over-browning, and heat for about 20-30 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. I love this method because it keeps that cheesy topping nice and melty!
- Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave individual portions. Just place a serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently until heated to your liking. Just be careful—it can get hot quickly!
With these tips, you can savor every last bite of your casserole, even days later. Enjoy every cheesy, comforting moment!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about the nutrition of the Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole! Each serving is packed with flavor and comfort, but it’s also nice to know what’s in it. Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values you can expect:
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on the ingredients used, so they can vary slightly depending on the specific brands or products you choose. It’s always good to be mindful of your portions and enjoy this comforting dish as part of a balanced diet!
FAQ Section
Got questions about the Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I get, along with my answers:
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! One of the best things about this casserole is that you can prepare it ahead of time. Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. It’s perfect for busy days!
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Sure thing! You can easily swap the chicken for turkey or even a meat substitute if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. Just make sure whatever you use is cooked and shredded for best results!
What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
No problem! You can use cream of mushroom soup or any other cream soup you like. It’ll still be delicious and add a different flavor profile to your casserole.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free cream of chicken soup. Always double-check your labels to be sure!
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden. It should also be heated through—just give it a little poke and see if it’s hot in the middle!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Definitely! You can freeze the casserole for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure it’s cooled completely, then wrap it tightly. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple salad or some crusty bread. It’s a complete meal on its own, but a little freshness on the side never hurts!
If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out! I’m here to help you make the most amazing Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole ever!
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Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole: Cozy Comfort Food Care
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and delicious casserole inspired by Dolly Parton.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 2 cups shredded cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream.
- Add the frozen vegetables and stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey.
- You can use fresh vegetables if preferred.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Dolly Parton Casserole, Easy Casserole, Chicken Casserole