Easy 5-Ingredient Casserole by Dolly Parton

When it comes to comfort food, few things are as universally loved as a warm, cheesy casserole fresh out of the oven. One dish that has captured hearts and appetites across the country is the Easy 5-Ingredient Casserole by Dolly Parton. Known for her down-home charm and Southern roots, Dolly’s culinary creations are just as legendary as her music. This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a nostalgic bite of Southern hospitality, designed to be easy, affordable, and deeply satisfying.

With just five simple ingredients—ground beef, cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, cooked rice, and frozen mixed vegetables—this dish offers an unbeatable combination of flavor and convenience. Perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or potluck dinners, this casserole requires minimal prep and delivers maximum taste. It’s no wonder this recipe has become a favorite across homes, social feeds, and Southern dinner tables alike.

As the popularity of Southern cuisine grows, so does interest in classic dishes like this one. Casseroles have long been a staple in family kitchens for their simplicity and flexibility, while Dolly Parton’s biography reveals just how rooted she is in the Southern cooking tradition. Pinterest is full of simple casserole recipes and easy family meals, with this one standing out for its charm and effectiveness.

📝 Recipe at a glance

This casserole brings joy to the kitchen not just for its taste, but for how simple it is to prepare. Here’s a quick overview:

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Total time: 40 minutes

• Difficulty: Easy

• Main flavors: Savory, cheesy, hearty

• Storage: 3–4 days in the fridge

This 5-ingredient casserole is ideal for home cooks of any level. Its flexible structure makes it easy to customize, while the built-in nutrition from beef, cheese, rice, and vegetables makes it a complete one-dish meal. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef or a Southern native to make this dish shine.

🧂 Full ingredient list & substitutions

Each of the five ingredients in Dolly Parton’s casserole serves a key role in both taste and texture. If you’re looking to make adjustments based on dietary needs or preferences, here are some tips and substitutions to help:

• Ground beef:

  • Substitute with ground turkey or lean ground chicken for a lighter version

  • Use plant-based ground “beef” for a vegetarian option

  • Season with garlic powder, onion powder, or taco seasoning for extra flavor

  • Ground beef is rich in protein and widely available.

• Cream of mushroom soup:

  • Replace with cream of chicken soup or a homemade roux-based mushroom sauce

  • For dairy-free: use canned coconut milk thickened with flour and mushrooms

  • Adds creaminess and unites the casserole

• Shredded cheddar cheese:

  • Swap for mozzarella, Colby Jack, or dairy-free cheese if needed

  • Use sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor

  • Cheese enhances both texture and visual appeal

• Cooked rice:

  • Works with white, brown, or wild rice

  • For low-carb: try cauliflower rice

  • Adds bulk and soaks up flavors

• Frozen mixed vegetables:

  • Use fresh or canned veggies like peas, carrots, corn, or green beans

  • Adds color and nutritional variety

  • Frozen veggies are economical and convenient

For a complete Southern culinary journey, explore more about Southern cuisine, where casseroles play a starring role in gatherings, potlucks, and holidays.

🔪 Step-by-step cooking instructions

This easy 5-ingredient casserole is quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Here’s how to make it from scratch:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 lb of ground beef until fully browned. Break the meat into small pieces for even cooking. Drain off any excess fat.

3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef, 1 can of cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup of cooked rice, and 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

4. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese (½ cup). This creates the gooey internal layer.

5. Grease a casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray. Pour the mixture into the dish and spread evenly.

6. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese on top to create a golden, bubbly crust.

7. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden on top.

Optional enhancements: add a sprinkle of paprika or chopped green onions before serving. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before cutting to help it set properly.

🧀 Why this recipe works (flavor & nutrition)

This dish is a go-to for many because it checks every box:

• Flavor: Savory ground beef combined with creamy mushroom soup and sharp cheddar cheese creates a rich umami taste.

• Texture: The soft rice and veggies contrast beautifully with the melted cheese topping.

• Nutrition: This casserole covers all major food groups—protein, carbs, dairy, and vegetables.

Nutritional breakdown per serving:

It’s the perfect comfort meal that’s not overindulgent but still highly satisfying.

🌶️ Popular variations & add-ons

One of the best things about Dolly’s casserole is how easily it can be personalized. Here are some crowd-favorite twists:

• Spicy variation:

  • Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne

  • Mix in hot sauce or pepper jack cheese

• Mexican-style version:

  • Stir in salsa, black beans, and corn

  • Top with cilantro and serve with sour cream

• Breakfast casserole:

  • Replace beef with turkey sausage

  • Add scrambled eggs and hash browns

• Low-carb or keto option:

  • Use cauliflower rice instead of white rice

  • Opt for lean meats and reduced-fat cheese

• Vegetarian option:

  • Use plant-based ground meat or lentils

  • Choose cream of celery soup for a flavor twist

If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out meal prep casseroles on Pinterest or explore vintage Southern recipes for traditional takes.

🧊 How to store & reheat the casserole

Leftovers? No problem! This dish stores well and reheats beautifully.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Label with the date. Lasts up to 2 months.

• Reheating:

  • Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

  • Oven: Bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying.

Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving again.

🥗 What to serve with Dolly Parton’s casserole

Pairing this casserole with the right side dish enhances the meal even more. Here are some classic and fresh ideas:

• Salads:

  • Caesar salad with crunchy croutons

  • Coleslaw with vinegar dressing for contrast

• Breads:

  • Homemade cornbread with honey butter

  • Garlic toast or cheddar biscuits

• Drinks:

  • Southern sweet tea

  • Freshly squeezed lemonade

These pairings balance out the casserole’s richness while staying true to its Southern roots. Many of these are showcased in classic comfort food traditions.

🧑‍🍳 Make-ahead & meal prep tips

Dolly Parton’s casserole is great for prepping in advance or doubling up for future meals.

• Make-ahead option:

  • Assemble all ingredients into the baking dish, cover with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

• Freezer prep:

  • Use a disposable foil pan

  • Label with cooking instructions and freeze before baking

• Batch cooking:

  • Double the recipe and freeze one casserole for later use

  • Ideal for new parents, busy professionals, or care packages

Many easy family meals follow this model of batch-friendly preparation to save time and energy during the week.

🏡 Behind the scenes: Dolly Parton & Southern cooking legacy

Dolly Parton isn’t just a global music icon—she’s also a proud representative of Appalachian and Southern cooking traditions. Raised in Tennessee in a large family, she learned from a young age how to stretch ingredients and cook with love.

Her cookbook and television appearances often emphasize simple, heartfelt recipes that evoke comfort and togetherness. This casserole reflects that legacy: no frills, just flavor and familiarity.

Southern casseroles, often baked in cast iron or ceramic dishes, have historically served as the centerpiece of Sunday dinners, church potlucks, and holidays. To dive deeper into the origins of such dishes, explore the role of comfort food in American cuisine.

❓ FAQs – People also ask

What is Dolly Parton’s favorite casserole?
Dolly Parton has shared multiple recipes over the years, but this 5-ingredient ground beef casserole remains one of her most iconic and accessible.

Can you make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance, refrigerate it, and bake just before serving.

How do you make a 5-ingredient casserole healthier?
Use lean ground meat, reduced-fat cheese, and cauliflower rice. You can also substitute with a dairy-free soup and increase the vegetable ratio.

What other casseroles has Dolly Parton shared?
Her cookbooks include recipes like chicken and dumplings, cheesy hashbrowns, and biscuit casseroles that reflect her Southern roots.

Can I use canned vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, but make sure to drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.

Can this be made gluten-free or dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free cream soup and dairy-free cheese alternatives to adapt the dish to your needs.

How long does leftover casserole last?
It stays fresh in the fridge for 3–4 days and can be frozen for up to 2 months if stored properly.

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