This hearty, creamy casserole brings together five simple ingredients for a comforting weeknight dinner that requires minimal prep and delivers maximum satisfaction. With tender pasta, savory ground beef, and melty cheese in a rich, creamy base, this recipe proves that the best comfort food doesn’t need complicated ingredients or lengthy preparation.
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Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned (5-7 minutes). Drain excess grease if needed. At the same time, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked beef, pasta, shredded cheese, cream of chicken soup, and milk. Mix well and spread evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle optional crushed chips or breadcrumbs on top.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Optionally, broil for 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness.
- Let casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve as a main dish with salad or vegetables.
Notes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and simple: Ready in under 45 minutes with just five pantry staples for busy weeknight success
- Family-friendly comfort: Creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, and savory beef create a satisfying one-dish meal
- Perfect for sharing: Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or feeding a crowd without fuss
- Customizable base: Easy to adapt with extra vegetables, different proteins, or favorite seasonings
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
For the Casserole
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 (16 oz) package elbow macaroni (or any small pasta shape)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or blend of Monterey Jack and Parmesan)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup (cream of mushroom works for richer flavor)
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
Optional Toppings
- Crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs (for added crunch)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish for easy cleanup.
2. Cook the Ground Beef and Pasta
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon for about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed and set aside. Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. Assemble the Casserole
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, cooked pasta, shredded cheese, cream of chicken soup, and milk. Stir until evenly combined and pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. For extra texture, sprinkle crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs on top.
4. Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown. For an extra golden crust, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and freshness if desired. Serve as a standalone meal or pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete dinner.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh ingredients: Freshly shredded cheese and high-quality ground beef make a noticeable difference in flavor
- Switch proteins: Substitute ground beef with turkey or plant-based alternatives for variety
- Add vegetables: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or diced bell peppers for extra nutrition and depth
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently in the oven or microwave
Recipe Variations
- Lighter option: Use ground turkey and reduced-fat cheese while maintaining the creamy texture with low-fat milk
- Vegetable boost: Add frozen mixed vegetables or fresh bell peppers during the assembly step
- Spice it up: Include a pinch of garlic powder, paprika, or black pepper for subtle flavor additions
- Cheese blend: Mix cheddar with Monterey Jack or Parmesan for more complex melting and flavor
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with light vinaigrette to balance the casserole’s richness
- Serve alongside steamed broccoli or green beans for added nutrition and color contrast
- Present family-style straight from the baking dish for casual, shareable dining
- Add a side of crusty bread for extra heartiness during colder months
Why This Recipe Works
This casserole combines the creamy richness of cheese, the savory satisfaction of ground beef, and the comforting texture of tender pasta into a dish that’s both indulgent and accessible. The five-ingredient simplicity makes prep work minimal, while the customizable options allow for personal touches without complicating the base recipe. Whether served as a standalone meal or adapted with favorite mix-ins, this recipe delivers big flavors without requiring advanced cooking skills.
This Dolly Parton-inspired casserole proves that the best comfort food comes from simple ingredients combined thoughtfully. Its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and practical preparation make it a standout recipe for busy families seeking both convenience and delicious results