Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
Sometimes the most comforting dishes are the simplest. Dolly Parton has always been known for her warm, down-to-earth cooking style, and this five-ingredient casserole perfectly reflects that spirit. It is uncomplicated, cozy, and filled with flavors that remind many people of home. This casserole is the kind of dish you can put together after a long day, a quiet evening, or a busy weekend when you want something filling without a lot of fuss. With just a handful of ingredients, it turns into a creamy, savory, and hearty bake that satisfies both adults and kids.
Part of the charm of this casserole is how flexible it is. Even though the recipe uses only five ingredients, each one brings its own character. When everything bakes together, the dish becomes soft, creamy, slightly cheesy, and wonderfully comforting. It is the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with a warm aroma and makes everyone want to gather around the table. Many people enjoy it as a main dish, but it can also be served as a side during holiday meals, potlucks, or casual weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 sleeve buttery crackers, crushed
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an eight-inch or nine-inch baking dish so the casserole does not stick while baking.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, the cream of chicken soup, the sour cream, and the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is completely mixed and coated. The mixture should be creamy and thick, with the chicken evenly distributed throughout. This is the heart of the casserole and gives it its rich and satisfying texture.
Once the filling is well combined, spoon it into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. The surface does not need to be perfectly smooth, but try to distribute the mixture so that it bakes uniformly.
Next, take the crushed buttery crackers and sprinkle them generously over the top of the casserole. The crackers create a crisp golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling underneath. Many people remember casseroles from their childhood featuring this same topping, which adds a nostalgic and familiar touch.
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The casserole is ready when the edges bubble slightly and the cracker topping is golden and crisp. Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This resting time makes it easier to scoop and helps the flavors settle.
This dish is warm, creamy, and deeply comforting. The combination of chicken, sour cream, and cheese creates a smooth and rich base that pairs perfectly with the crunchy topping. Each bite offers a blend of textures that makes the dish memorable and enjoyable without being overly heavy or complicated.
One of the reasons this five-ingredient casserole is so loved is that it works in almost any situation. It makes a quick weeknight dinner, can be prepared ahead of time for busy evenings, and fits easily into a potluck menu. It can even work as a side dish during holiday meals or family gatherings. The ingredients are common and affordable, making the recipe accessible when you want something comforting without spending a lot of time or money.
If you want the dish to feel a little heartier, you can serve it with simple sides such as steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or mashed potatoes. It also pairs well with warm biscuits or soft dinner rolls, which help soak up the creamy sauce. Leftovers can be reheated the next day and often taste even better because the flavors have had more time to blend together.
This casserole also invites small variations without losing its character. Some people like to add a pinch of black pepper, garlic powder, or onion powder to the filling. Others enjoy adding a small handful of extra cheese on top of the cracker crumbs for a slightly richer finish. You can also swap the chicken for turkey if you have leftovers from a holiday meal. Each variation still keeps the simplicity of the original recipe while adding a personal touch.
Dolly Parton has always emphasized cooking with love, warmth, and simplicity. This five-ingredient casserole reflects that philosophy perfectly. It does not rely on complicated steps or fancy additions. It brings together ordinary pantry staples and turns them into a comforting dish that feels welcoming and familiar. Whether you are cooking for your family, preparing a meal for friends, or simply wanting something satisfying for yourself, this casserole delivers all the comfort of home cooking with very little effort.
The ease and charm of this recipe remind many people why simple meals often remain favorites. They bring comfort, nostalgia, and warmth to the table. Dolly Parton’s five-ingredient casserole captures that feeling with every bite, proving once again that good food does not need to be complicated to be memorable.