Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is more than just a dish; it’s a slice of warm, comforting nostalgia that brings the whole family together. As one of the easiest casseroles you’ll ever make, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something hearty and satisfying without a ton of fuss. This recipe not only showcases the classic Southern flavors we adore but also highlights the joy of cooking with just a handful of ingredients. You might find yourself reaching for it during cozy family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even potluck parties, as it never fails to impress!
Why you’ll love this dish
This casserole stands out for several reasons: it’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With just five ingredients, it doesn’t get much simpler than this! Perfect for a weeknight dinner after a long day, this dish checks all the boxes—hearty, savory, and oh-so-comforting. Plus, if you have kids at home, this recipe is a hit with little ones thanks to its creamy texture and crunchy topping.
“This casserole has become my go-to recipe for every family gathering. It’s simple, delicious, and always disappears in minutes!” – A happy home cook
Step-by-step overview
Getting ready to whip up Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is a breeze! Here’s a quick breakdown of how the process unfolds:
- Preheat your oven and grease your baking dish.
- Mix the creamy filling using shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream.
- Prepare the buttery cracker topping.
- Layer the filling in the dish and sprinkle the crunchy topping on top.
- Bake until hot and bubbly, then let it cool before diving in!
With that clear roadmap, let’s dive into what you’ll need to gather for this delightful dish.
What you’ll need
To recreate this Southern delight, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie works great)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 sleeve (about 30) buttery round crackers, crushed
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
If you want to give it a twist, consider using leftover turkey instead of chicken or opting for a low-fat sour cream to lighten it up.
Directions to follow
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
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Mix filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Spread it evenly into the greased baking dish.
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Make topping: In a separate bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter until all the crackers are coated.
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Assemble: Evenly sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture over the chicken layer, creating a tempting crunchy topping.
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Bake: Pop the casserole in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until it’s hot, bubbly, and the topping has turned a lovely golden brown.
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Serve: Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is half the fun! Pair it with a simple side salad for a refreshing crunch, or serve it alongside roasted vegetables for a colorful plate. You can even complement it with some warm, crusty bread to mop up the delicious sauce. For a little extra heartiness, consider adding a side of mashed potatoes or rice—perfect for soaking up all that creamy goodness!
Storage and reheating tips
Once you’ve enjoyed your casserole, you might have some tasty leftovers to store. To keep them fresh, allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. If you want to save it longer, consider freezing it; just be sure to wrap it well in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Helpful cooking tips
- Rotisserie chicken is not just convenient but also adds incredible flavor. Don’t hesitate to use leftover chicken from a previous meal.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a splash of chicken broth or milk to the filling.
- For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top of the casserole before baking. Cheddar or Monterey Jack works beautifully!
Creative twists
Explore variations of this casserole to keep things interesting! Try adding cooked vegetables like spinach or broccoli for a pop of color and nutrition. You could also swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom for a different flavor profile. For those craving spice, a few dashes of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños can add a delightful kick!
Common questions
What is the prep time for Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole?
Prep time is about 10-15 minutes. With the oven preheating and minimal chopping, you’ll have this dish ready to bake in no time!
Can I make this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed.
Is it safe to freeze this casserole?
Yes! Freeze the casserole after it has cooled. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. Reeating frozen casserole may take a little longer, so plan accordingly.
This delightful recipe exemplifies comfort food at its finest, and with its ease and flavor, you’ll find it quickly earns a cherished spot in your recipe rotation. Enjoy making and sharing this dish with those you love!
5-Ingredient Casserole
Ingredients
Filling Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken Rotisserie works great
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 cup sour cream Can use low-fat for a lighter dish
Topping Ingredients
- 1 sleeve buttery round crackers, crushed About 30 crackers
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Spread it evenly into the greased baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter until all the crackers are coated.
- Evenly sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture over the chicken layer, creating a tempting crunchy topping.
Baking
- Pop the casserole in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until it’s hot, bubbly, and the topping has turned a lovely golden brown.
- Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
