Introduction
Dolly Parton is not only a musical icon but also a beloved figure for her down-to-earth charm and homey recipes. One of her most cherished dishes is the 5-Ingredient Casserole, a simple yet delicious meal that embodies comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re in need of a quick weeknight dinner or preparing for a cozy family gathering, this casserole recipe brings together minimal ingredients to create a hearty and satisfying dish. The combination of creamy chicken, melted cheese, and vibrant vegetables makes it a favorite among both children and adults alike. Join us as we dive deeper into the magic of Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole, with detailed insight into its ingredients, preparation, and cooking techniques.
Detailed Ingredients
To whip up Dolly Parton’s famous 5-Ingredient Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
– **1 can cream of chicken soup**: This creamy base adds flavor and richness to the casserole. It’s a pantry staple that helps bind the ingredients together, creating a luscious texture.
– **1 cup sour cream**: Sour cream enhances the creamy consistency and adds a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the other ingredients. It also keeps the casserole moist during baking.
– **1 cup shredded cheddar cheese**: Nothing complements a casserole quite like melted cheese. Cheddar adds a sharp, savory taste that envelops every bite in deliciousness. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist.
– **1 bag (16 oz) frozen mixed vegetables**: Frozen mixed vegetables offer convenience while injecting color and nutrition into the dish. An assortment of peas, carrots, corn, and green beans not only adds visual appeal but also beneficial vitamins and minerals.
– **2 cups cooked and shredded chicken**: Utilizing cooked chicken—whether left over from another meal or quickly poached—ensures the casserole is protein-packed and hearty, making it a complete meal in itself.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
– **Prep Time**: 15 minutes
– **Cook Time**: 35 minutes
– **Total Time**: 50 minutes
– **Yield**: 6-8 servings
This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also yields enough servings to feed a family or provide leftovers for lunch the following day.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
To create the perfect Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole, follow these detailed instructions:
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an essential step to ensure your casserole bakes evenly and gets that perfect golden brown finish.
2. **Combine Creamy Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the can of cream of chicken soup with the sour cream. Stir them together until you achieve a smooth mixture. This will be the creamy base of your casserole.
3. **Incorporate Cheese and Vegetables**: Add in the shredded cheddar cheese and the entire bag of frozen mixed vegetables. Mix these ingredients thoroughly so that every bite of the casserole features cheese and veggies throughout.
4. **Add Chicken**: Gently fold in the cooked and shredded chicken, making sure it’s evenly distributed within the mixture. This adds protein and heartiness to the casserole, making it a well-rounded meal.
5. **Transfer to Baking Dish**: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a little oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour the combined mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
6. **Bake**: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on it until the casserole becomes bubbly, and the cheese melts beautifully, creating an inviting aroma throughout your kitchen.
7. **Cool Before Serving**: Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to settle and makes serving easier.
Notes
This casserole is highly versatile and can be adjusted to suit your personal tastes. Below are some notes to consider:
– **Vegetable Variation**: Feel free to replace the frozen mixed vegetables with your favorites, such as broccoli, spinach or even bell peppers. Seasonal vegetables can add freshness and variety.
– **Protein Alternatives**: If you don’t have shredded chicken on hand, other proteins such as turkey, rotisserie chicken, or even canned tuna can be used. For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken entirely or replace it with tofu or legumes.
– **Cheese Choices**: While cheddar is a classic choice, consider mixing in mozzarella for stretchiness, or using pepper jack for a hint of spice.
– **Spicing It Up**: If you’d like to add more flavor, season the mixture with herbs and spices. A dash of garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning can elevate the taste.
Cook Techniques
Making the 5-Ingredient Casserole involves basic cooking techniques that even the novice cook can master:
– **Mixing**: Properly mixing the ingredients ensures even distribution of flavors and textures. Take your time in this step to combine everything thoroughly.
– **Baking**: Baking at the right temperature is key to achieving a bubbling, golden casserole. Avoid opening the oven door frequently, as this can impact the cooking process.
– **Resting**: Allowing the casserole to rest post-bake is critical. It helps with the cooling process and gives the ingredients time to set, making serving easier without a soupy mess.
FAQ
– **Can I make this casserole ahead of time?**
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator unbaked. Simply cover it with foil and bake it from cold, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
– **How do I store leftovers?**
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or the oven, adding a splash of water if it appears dry.
– **Is this dish freezer-friendly?**
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
– **What is the best way to serve this casserole?**
The casserole can be served warm as a standalone dish, or accompanied by a fresh salad or bread for a more complete meal.
Conclusion
Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients coming together for a deliciously comforting meal. Not only does it capture the essence of home cooking, but it also provides an easy solution for busy weeknights. In just under an hour, you can serve a hearty and satisfying dinner that your family will love. This recipe transcends mere sustenance—it’s a warm embrace in the form of food, perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night in.
More Recipes Suggestions and Combinations
If you loved Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole, you might also enjoy these other comforting recipes:
– **Chicken and Rice Casserole**: A classic dish combining chicken, rice, and creamy soup—perfect for a filling family meal.
– **Tuna Noodle Casserole**: A nostalgic dish featuring pantry staples, creamy sauce, and crisped breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
– **Broccoli Cheddar Casserole**: Combining broccoli and cheddar for a rich, comforting dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
– **Vegetable Lasagna**: Layers of noodles, ricotta, vegetables, and marinara sauce for an Italian twist on comfort food.
– **Shepherd’s Pie**: A perfect blend of ground meat, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes baked to golden perfection.
Explore these variations and continue to enjoy the delightful simplicity that comes with casseroles, celebrating flavors, traditions, and the joy of sharing food.