The 5 Ingredients

You only need:

• 1 bag (about 30 oz) frozen shredded hash browns

• 1 can cream of chicken soup

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 stick (½ cup) melted butter

Optional but delicious additions: cracked pepper, diced onions, or crushed cornflakes on top.

How to Make Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven

Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13 baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

2. Mix the Creamy Base

In a large bowl, combine:

• Cream of chicken soup

• Sour cream

• Melted butter

Whisk until the mixture is smooth and silky.

3. Add the Hash Browns

Fold the frozen hash browns into the creamy mixture. No need to thaw them—using them frozen helps maintain texture.

4. Add the Cheddar

Stir in 1½ cups of the shredded cheddar, saving the remaining ½ cup for topping.

Cheese gives the casserole its classic Southern richness.

5. Transfer to the Baking Dish

Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared pan.
Top with the reserved cheddar cheese.

For extra crunch, sprinkle on crushed cornflakes or buttery crackers—very Southern, very comforting.

6. Bake Until Golden

Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until:

• The edges are bubbling

• The top is lightly browned

• The center is hot all the way through

The casserole should be creamy inside with a slightly crisp top.

How to Serve It

Dolly’s version of this dish pairs beautifully with:

• Baked chicken

• Meatloaf

• Ham

• Barbecue

• Or simply a fresh green salad

It’s also perfect as a holiday side, a brunch addition, or a cozy Sunday dinner centerpiece.

Why This Recipe Endures

Like many Southern dishes, this casserole survives generation after generation because it’s:

• Easy

• Reliable

• Delicious

• Comforting

It’s the kind of recipe families pass down and tweak along the way, creating memories with every warm, cheesy bite.

Dolly has always said that good food—and good music—is about love. This casserole is proof: five humble ingredients, one unforgettable dish.