Dolly Parton’s 5 Ingredient Casserole is a quick and easy dinner solution that really comes through when you need a tasty meal fast. With just five simple ingredients, this casserole combines creamy cheese, tender chicken, and a crunchy topping for a comforting dish that’s both satisfying and fuss-free. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner when time is short but you still want something homey and delicious.
I love making this casserole because it’s so straightforward—you don’t need a long list of ingredients or complicated steps. I usually keep all the ingredients on hand, so whenever I’m short on time or just don’t feel like cooking something complicated, this comes together in a snap. The cheesy sauce and the crispy topping always get everyone asking for seconds, which is a great sign in my house!
The best way I like to serve it is straight from the oven, paired with a simple side salad or steamed veggies to add some freshness. It’s one of those dishes that warms you up and leaves you feeling good without a lot of effort. If you want a no-fail, crowd-pleasing meal that saves your dinner plans, Dolly’s casserole is definitely worth trying.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This gives the casserole its hearty flavor. If you want a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken. Vegetarian? Crumbled tofu or lentils work well too.
Cream cheese: It adds creamy richness. Softened cream cheese blends easily, but you could substitute with Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter twist.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice cheesy kick. Feel free to swap for mozzarella or a blend of cheeses if you prefer milder or stretch the flavor.
Sour cream: Adds tang and creaminess. For dairy-free needs, plain coconut yogurt or a vegan sour cream works to keep the texture smooth.
Tater tots: These give a crispy, fun topping. You can use frozen hash browns as a substitute for a different texture or homemade roasted potatoes if you have time.
How Do I Get Crispy, Golden Tater Tots on Top?
Getting tater tots crispy is key to this recipe. Here’s how I make sure they come out just right:
- Spread the frozen tots in a single, even layer over the beef mixture. Overcrowding keeps them soggy.
- Bake uncovered—this lets moisture escape, so the tots crisp up nicely.
- Keep an eye during the last 5 minutes. If needed, switch to broil for 1-2 minutes to brown the cheese and tots, but don’t walk away—they can burn fast!
These tips make the topping crunchy while the inside stays creamy—a perfect balance every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the ground beef evenly and mixing in the cream cheese without sticking.
- 9×13 inch casserole dish – roomy enough for all the layers and makes baking the casserole easy.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – great for stirring and spreading the beef mixture smoothly in the dish.
- Oven mitts – essential for safely handling the hot casserole dish when putting it in and taking it out of the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner, milder dish that still tastes great.
- Add diced green chilies or jalapeños to the beef mix for a little spicy kick and extra flavor.
- Mix in cooked chopped broccoli or bell peppers for a veggie boost you can sneak in easily.
- Try pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a creamy, slightly spicy twist on the classic.
Dolly Parton’s 5 Ingredient Casserole Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
- 1 (16 oz) container sour cream
- 1 (12 oz) bag of frozen tater tots
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you can have a delicious, warm casserole ready in about 30 to 40 minutes, perfect for quick dinners.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s evenly browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from being too greasy.
2. Mix in Cream Cheese and Sour Cream:
Add the softened cream cheese to the cooked beef and stir until completely melted and combined. Remove from heat, then mix in the sour cream and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the beef and cheese mixture to a 9×13 inch casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Lay the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the beef mixture. Finally, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots.
4. Bake and Serve:
Bake the casserole uncovered in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. The tater tots should be golden and crispy, and the cheese on top melted and bubbly. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to enjoy a delicious, creamy, and crunchy meal.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Casserole?
It’s best to use thawed ground beef for even cooking. If you only have frozen beef, thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave before cooking.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the beef mixture and assemble the casserole, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water or sour cream if it seems dry.
Can I Substitute Other Cheeses in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap sharp cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. Just use the same amount to keep the texture creamy and melty.
