Dolly Parton's 5-Ingredient Casserole

Dolly Parton's 5-Ingredient Casserole Brings Classic Comfort to the Table

For decades, Dolly Parton has been known for her iconic music and Southern charm, but her influence extends beyond the stage—right into the kitchen. The country music legend's five-ingredient, five-layer casserole is making waves among home cooks looking for a simple, hearty meal.

This dish, featuring basic pantry staples like potatoes, ground beef, onions, diced tomatoes, and green bell peppers, is a fuss-free option for busy families. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, it offers a well-balanced combination of protein, carbs, and vegetables—all baked together for two hours at 350°F.

Though easy to make, some have noted that the casserole benefits from additional seasoning. Many home chefs recommend enhancements such as crushed red pepper, garlic powder, and butter for extra flavor. Others suggest using fire-roasted tomatoes or topping the dish with pepperoncini for a tangy kick.

Despite its simplicity, the dish embodies the heart of comfort food—warm, filling, and reminiscent of home-cooked meals shared with loved ones. As with Parton’s music, the casserole proves that sometimes, the simplest things leave the biggest impression.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound lean ground beef (85 or 90%)

• 3 large russet potatoes, sliced 1/4-inch thick

• 2 sweet onions, sliced 1/4-inch thick

• 1 can diced tomatoes (preferably fire-roasted)

• 2 medium green bell peppers, diced

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional additions: 1 tablespoon diced butter, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper, pepperoncini

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray a 9x13-inch baking or casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.

2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, and add garlic powder and crushed red pepper if using.

3. Arrange the sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Season with salt and pepper, and dot with butter if using.

4. Spread the cooked ground beef over the potatoes, followed by an even layer of sliced onions.

5. Sprinkle on the diced tomatoes and then the green bell peppers.

6. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 2 hours.

7. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. For extra flavor, add sliced pepperoncini before serving.

   
   

This simple, old-fashioned casserole is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you're a longtime fan of Dolly Parton or just looking for an easy dinner recipe, this dish is a reliable go-to for a satisfying meal.