Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
Some recipes don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques to become unforgettable—they just need heart. The so-called “Dolly Parton Casserole” is exactly that kind of dish. Passed around in church cookbooks, shared at potlucks, and loved in Southern kitchens for generations, this simple casserole has earned its place as a true comfort classic. While it may not come from Dolly herself, it perfectly reflects the spirit she represents: warmth, generosity, simplicity, and feeding people with love.
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Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
While Dolly Parton may not have officially published this recipe herself, a beloved “Dolly Parton Casserole” has circulated for decades in church cookbooks, Southern kitchens, and community potlucks—often shared with a wink and a nod to the country icon’s love of humble, hearty, home-cooked meals.
True to Dolly’s spirit—generous, no-fuss, and full of soul—this casserole uses just five simple ingredients to create a dish that’s creamy, satisfying, and deeply comforting. Think of it as Southern frugality meets pure kitchen magic: tender chicken, buttery crackers, cream of chicken soup, cheese, and a touch of love, baked into golden, bubbly perfection.
It’s the kind of dish you’d bring to a neighbor in need, serve at a family supper, or whip up when you’re tired but still want to feed your people well.
Why This Casserole Feels Like a Hug
Only 5 ingredients—most already in your pantry
Ready in 45 minutes—less time than it takes to sing “Jolene” twice!
Budget-friendly—feeds a crowd for under $10
One dish, minimal cleanup
Tastes like tradition—simple, honest, and full of warmth
If you believe the best meals come from the heart, not the gourmet aisle, this casserole was made for you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 6–8)
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie works perfectly!)
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
2 cups (8 oz) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
2 cups crushed buttery round crackers (like Ritz or similar—about 50 crackers)
Pro Tips:
Don’t skip crushing the crackers by hand—it gives rustic texture.
Add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder if you like (not traditional, but tasty!).
Make it creamy without soup: Use 1½ cups béchamel (butter + flour + milk) + ½ cup broth.
Step-by-Step Instructions (As Easy as a Dolly Ballad)
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of cheese. Stir gently until blended.
3. Assemble the Casserole
Pour mixture into the baking dish.
Top with remaining 1 cup of cheese.
Sprinkle crushed crackers evenly over the top (no need to mix in—they form a buttery crust!).
4. Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake 30–35 minutes, until bubbly and the cracker topping is golden brown.
Let rest 5 minutes
before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with steamed green beans, buttered corn, or a simple salad
Serve with hot buttered biscuits for extra Southern comfort
Leftovers reheat beautifully—just add a splash of milk to revive creaminess
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use turkey or ham instead of chicken?
A: Absolutely! This casserole is wonderfully adaptable—use any leftover cooked meat.
Q: Is this freezer-friendly?
A: Yes! Assemble (unbaked), freeze, then bake from frozen (+15–20 mins covered).
Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Use GF cream of chicken soup and GF buttery crackers (like Schär or homemade).
Q: Why is it called “Dolly Parton’s Casserole”?
A: Likely because it embodies her values: humble ingredients, big heart, and feeding folks with love. (And yes—it’s as iconic in casserole circles as her voice is in country music!)
A Dish Full of Heart, Just Like Dolly
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