Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole

Welcome to a comforting culinary delight: Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole! This recipe merges simplicity with rich, hearty flavors, bringing joy to your kitchen without the complexity of numerous ingredients. Inspired by the legendary Dolly Parton’s love for good, honest cooking, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, delivering a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Similar to our beloved Classic Mac & Cheese, this casserole promises the same comforting experience but with fewer steps. Get ready to embrace a dish that quickly becomes a cherished family tradition!

What is Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole?

Imagine a deliciously simple casserole you can whip up effortlessly—Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole embodies this ideal perfectly. Combining tender beef, hearty potatoes, sweet onions, vibrant peppers, and zesty tomatoes, this dish encapsulates warmth, ease, and flavor. Named after Dolly Parton herself, known for her approachable, heartwarming cooking, this recipe captures the essence of wholesome, fuss-free comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Delicious: Only five key ingredients, yet bursting with robust flavors.
• Budget-Friendly: Affordable ingredients ideal for feeding your whole family.
• Comforting and Hearty: Offers the same comfort as our One-Pot Chicken Stew, with even simpler preparation.

How to Make Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole

Quick Overview

With just 15 minutes of prep and two hours of effortless baking, this casserole combines savory beef, tender potatoes, and fresh vegetables into a flavorful, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef (85-90%)
• 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: 1 tablespoon diced butter, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper, pepperoncini

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet, cook ground beef until browned. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper if desired.
3. Layer the Casserole: Layer potatoes at the bottom, season with salt and pepper, and dot with butter if using. Add ground beef, sliced onions, diced tomatoes, and bell peppers.
4. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for two hours until tender. Let cool slightly before serving.

What to Serve with Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole

Serve with a fresh, crisp salad or steamed vegetables for balance. For an indulgent pairing, buttery garlic bread complements the flavors perfectly. Complete the meal with refreshing iced tea or fruity lemonade.

Top Tips for Perfecting the Recipe

• Ingredient Alternatives: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter dish.
• Time-Saving Tips: Pre-cook potatoes slightly in the microwave to reduce baking time.
• Avoid Mistakes: Season conservatively initially and adjust after baking to preserve the natural flavors.

Storing and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Freeze up to two months and thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

• Can I use different meats or veggies? Yes, ground turkey or additional veggies like zucchini or mushrooms work well.
• Is this casserole freezer-friendly? Absolutely! Freeze portions and thaw as needed.
• Can I make it vegetarian? Yes, substitute beef with beans or plant-based protein.

Conclusion

Bring warmth and ease to your dinner table with Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole. This simple yet hearty dish is bound to become a favorite, effortlessly blending taste and convenience into a comforting culinary experience. Enjoy this meal tonight and savor the delight of effortless home cooking!