Simple, hearty, and oh-so-Southern, Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is comfort food at its best. This creamy, cheesy dish takes just a handful of pantry staples and turns them into a golden, bubbly casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings. With its buttery cracker topping and rich, tender filling, it’s no wonder this recipe is a Southern kitchen favorite.
Who Is This Recipe For
This casserole is for anyone craving a quick, no-fuss dinner that feels homemade and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding your family or need a crowd-pleaser for church suppers and holidays, Dolly’s casserole delivers comfort and nostalgia in every bite.
Why You’ll Love It
- Only 5 simple ingredients — perfect for beginner cooks.
- Bakes in just 30 minutes.
- Deliciously creamy and cheesy with a buttery crunch on top.
- A true Southern staple inspired by Dolly’s love for simple, comforting food.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 (10.5-oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed (about 1 cup)
- (Optional) 2 tablespoons melted butter for extra richness
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of cheese until well combined.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Top with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
- In a small bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter (if using), then sprinkle evenly over the top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with:
- A side of green beans or broccoli for a balanced meal.
- Mashed potatoes or buttered corn for extra comfort.
- Fresh rolls or biscuits to soak up the creamy sauce.
FAQ
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes! Canned chicken or rotisserie chicken both work great in this recipe.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare it up to the topping step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze it?
Yes — wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Conclusion
Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole proves that comfort doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a warm, cheesy, golden casserole that tastes like it came straight from Dolly’s own kitchen.
