Dolly Parton’s 5 Ingredient Casserole is the perfect go-to dish when you need dinner on the table fast. With just five simple ingredients, this casserole combines creamy soup, tender chicken, a bit of cheese, and crunchy chips for a comforting mix of textures and flavors. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a busy day.
I love making this casserole because it’s so easy to throw together, and it always gets rave reviews from family and friends. I usually double the recipe so there’s enough for leftovers—they taste just as good the next day, if not better! It’s also great for busy weeknights when you don’t have the energy to cook something complicated.
My favorite way to serve it is right out of the oven with a fresh green salad on the side. The crunchy topping with gooey, cheesy chicken underneath never fails to bring smiles to the table. Every time I make this casserole, it feels a little like sharing a bit of Dolly’s down-home, no-fuss cooking spirit.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken here because it’s quick and tender. If you don’t have rotisserie, leftover grilled or baked chicken works just fine. For a vegetarian option, try cooked tofu or chickpeas instead.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This soup adds creaminess and flavor. You can swap it with cream of chicken or even cream of celery. If you want to make it healthier, try a homemade white sauce with milk and a little flour.
Elbow Macaroni: This pasta holds the mix nicely. If you can’t find elbow macaroni, feel free to use any small pasta like shells or penne. Make sure to cook it just until al dente so it doesn’t get mushy after baking.
Cheddar Cheese: I use sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but mild cheddar or a cheese blend works well, too. For a lighter version, substitute half with mozzarella for gooeyness without too much heaviness.
Crushed Crackers or Potato Chips: The crunchy topping is the star here! Ritz crackers give a buttery crunch, but Lay’s potato chips add a bit of saltiness and texture. If avoiding gluten, try crushed corn chips or gluten-free crackers.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crunchy Topping on This Casserole?
The topping really makes this dish special—it adds a nice texture contrast. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use crushed Ritz crackers or potato chips that are not too fine. You want some pieces for crunch.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the cheese layer so it browns nicely without burning.
- Bake uncovered so the heat crisps up the topping. Avoid covering with foil, or it will stay soggy.
- Keep a close eye during the last 5 minutes of baking to get a golden brown crust without burning.
- If you like extra buttery crunch, toss the crushed crackers or chips with a little melted butter before topping.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size to hold all the ingredients and cook evenly.
- Mixing bowl – makes combining the chicken, pasta, soup, and cheese easy.
- Measuring cups – helps you get the right amounts of soup, cheese, and crackers.
- Spoon or spatula – great for mixing all the ingredients together gently.
- Oven mitts – to safely take the hot casserole out of the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap cooked chicken for cooked ground beef or turkey for a heartier dish with a slightly different texture.
- Mix in some cooked broccoli or frozen peas to add color and a bit of crunch to the casserole.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a little spicy kick.
- Add a teaspoon of garlic powder or a pinch of paprika to the soup mixture to boost the flavor.
Dolly Parton’s 5 Ingredient Casserole Saves Dinner in 30 Minutes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
- 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups crushed buttery crackers or potato chips (such as Ritz crackers or Lay’s)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This quick and comforting casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you can have dinner ready in roughly 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking your casserole.
2. Mix the Main Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, drained cooked elbow macaroni, and the cream of mushroom soup. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed. Then fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese gently.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish lightly. Transfer your mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top, followed by an even layer of crushed crackers or potato chips for a crunchy topping.
4. Bake and Serve:
Bake the casserole uncovered for about 20-25 minutes until it’s bubbly, and the top turns golden brown and crispy. Take it out and let it cool slightly before serving. If you like, add a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh finish.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave to speed things up. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents excess moisture in your casserole.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, stirring occasionally to warm evenly. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight before reheating.
Can I Substitute the Crackers or Chips Topping?
Yes, feel free to swap the crackers or chips for breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or even crushed pretzels to add a different texture and flavor while keeping that satisfying crunch on top.
