Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Country-Style Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is a perfect blend of southern comfort food with minimal effort. With just five ingredients, it’s incredibly easy to prepare yet delivers on taste and texture. The creamy combination of the ingredients creates a rich, savory dish that is filling and perfect for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or meal prep. It's not only flavorful but also adaptable for those looking to try something new and tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 can cream of mushroom soup

• 1 bag frozen hash browns (about 30 oz)

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 small onion, chopped

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.

3. Add the chopped onion to the beef and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.

4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef and onion mixture with the cream of mushroom soup, frozen hash browns, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

5. Mix everything well and transfer to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

6. Sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is hot throughout.

8. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 30-40 minutes

• Total time: 40-50 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: You can add peas, carrots, or green beans to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Swap the Meat: Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of ground beef for a lighter version.

• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

• Different Soup: Try using cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a different flavor base.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, simply place the casserole in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until it is heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven as directed.

2. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes, you can slice or dice fresh potatoes to replace the frozen hash browns. Just be sure to cook them a bit before adding them to the casserole to ensure they are tender by the time the casserole is done.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole. Prepare it fully, but instead of baking, cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, bake it from frozen at 350°F for about 45-55 minutes.

4. Can I add more cheese to the casserole?

Absolutely! If you love cheese, feel free to add extra shredded cheddar or even mix in a different cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack.

5. What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole is a meal on its own, but you could pair it with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or cornbread to complete the meal.

6. How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the dish is hot throughout. You can also test it by inserting a fork or knife in the center—if it comes out hot, it’s ready to serve.

7. Can I use a different kind of ground meat?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage if you prefer. Each will bring a unique flavor to the dish.

8. How can I make this casserole more flavorful?

Try seasoning the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika before cooking. Adding a bit of salt and pepper will also help enhance the flavors.

9. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any flour or bread crumbs. Just make sure your cream of mushroom soup and other ingredients are gluten-free.

10. How long does this casserole last in the fridge?

This casserole will last in the fridge for up to 3 days if stored in an airtight container. Reheat it properly before serving.

Conclusion

Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Country-Style Casserole is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings comfort and warmth to any meal. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, this casserole is a great go-to for busy weeknights or when you want to enjoy a hearty meal without too much hassle. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or make your own variations, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!

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