There’s something special about recipes that don’t require a long grocery list or complicated instructions. Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is exactly that kind of dish: simple, hearty, comforting, and easy enough to make on a busy evening.
Inspired by Dolly’s down-home cooking style, this casserole brings together a handful of familiar ingredients to create a warm, satisfying meal the whole family can enjoy. It’s the kind of recipe that feels right at home on a casual Sunday table, at a potluck, or whenever you’re craving old-fashioned comfort food.
And with only five main ingredients, it’s wonderfully budget-friendly.
Why This Casserole Is So Popular
This recipe checks nearly every box for an easy weeknight dinner:
- Only 5 main ingredients
- Simple pantry and refrigerator staples
- Minimal prep work
- One-dish convenience
- Family-friendly flavor
- Easy to customize
- Delicious as leftovers
It’s also a great example of how simple ingredients can come together to make something much more satisfying than you might expect.
Ingredients
For this easy casserole, you'll need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 package (about 16 ounces) frozen tater tots
You can also add salt and black pepper to taste, although those are considered basic seasonings rather than part of the five main ingredients.
Easy Ingredient Swaps
Don't worry if you need to make a few substitutions.
Ground beef: Ground turkey or ground chicken can be used instead.
Cream of mushroom soup: Cream of chicken soup works well if you're not a mushroom fan.
Corn: Frozen corn can replace canned corn. Just thaw it first.
Cheddar: Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican-style cheese blend can give the casserole a slightly different flavor.
How to Make Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish.
2. Brown the Beef
Place the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until completely browned and no longer pink.
Drain off excess grease.
Season lightly with salt and black pepper if desired.
3. Add the Soup and Corn
