🥘 Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole

Simple, hearty, and packed with Southern charm — this casserole is a weeknight lifesaver straight from Dolly’s down-home cookbook.

It’s no surprise that Dolly Parton has a recipe this comforting. With just five basic ingredients (plus a pinch of love), this casserole is pure nostalgia in every bite. It’s the kind of no-fuss meal that tastes like it took all day — but comes together with minimal effort. Perfect for feeding a hungry family or serving at potlucks.

🧾 Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef (85% or 90%)
3 large russet potatoes, sliced ¼-inch thick
1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, fresh parsley, sour cream, or hot sauce.

🔪 Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or a bit of oil.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns. Add a pinch of salt and pepper for flavor. Once the beef is cooked through and no longer pink, drain off any excess fat.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

Now, it’s time to assemble!

First layer: Place the potato slices in an even layer in the bottom of the dish.
Second layer: Sprinkle the chopped green bell pepper and onion evenly over the potatoes.
Third layer: Add the cooked ground beef on top.
Top it off: Pour the entire can of diced tomatoes (with juice) over the layers. Use a spoon to spread them out evenly.

Season again with salt and pepper if desired.

Step 4: Bake

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the top is lightly browned.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of shredded cheese or chopped parsley if you like.

Serve with a side salad or cornbread, and you’ve got yourself a classic country meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

💡 Tips & Variations

Spicy twist: Add ½ teaspoon of chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a little kick.
Cheesy upgrade: Top with shredded cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Veggie boost: Toss in a handful of corn, zucchini, or mushrooms if you’ve got them.
Make ahead: Assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

🧊 Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave or cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes.
Freeze: This casserole freezes well! Cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

❤️ Why You’ll Love It

Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is:

Simple and budget-friendly
Cozy and filling
Made from pantry staples
Packed with nostalgic Southern flavor
Ideal for weeknights or family gatherings

📝 Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a die-hard Dolly fan or just looking for an easy one-pan dinner, this casserole hits all the right notes. It’s the kind of comfort food that brings people together — and leaves no leftovers behind.

So grab your casserole dish, turn up some Dolly tunes, and get cooking!