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Easy Dolly Parton's 5-Ingredient Casserole (Print Version)

Whip up Dolly Parton's famous 5-ingredient casserole! This easy, comforting dish brings Southern charm to your table with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 35 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American

# Ingredients:

→ Hearty Foundation

01 - 1 lb lean ground beef
02 - 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced

→ Creamy Comfort Core

03 - 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
04 - 1/2 cup milk
05 - 1 (15 oz) can whole kernel corn, drained

→ Golden Crown

06 - 1 (16 oz) bag frozen tater tots
07 - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

→ Flavor Harmonizers

08 - 1 tsp garlic powder
09 - 1/2 tsp onion powder
10 - 1/2 tsp salt
11 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
12 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. This initial step sets the stage for your delicious Easy Dolly Parton's 5-Ingredient Casserole, ensuring even cooking from the start.
02 - In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown 1 lb lean ground beef with 1/2 cup finely diced yellow onion. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
03 - Return the beef and onion to the skillet (or a large bowl). Stir in 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup, 1/2 cup milk, 1 (15 oz) can whole kernel corn (drained), 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. This forms the hearty base of your Easy Dolly Parton's 5-Ingredient Casserole.
04 - Pour the beef mixture into the prepared 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Arrange the 1 (16 oz) bag frozen tater tots in a single layer over the beef mixture. Ensure they cover the entire surface for a golden crown.
05 - Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. The tater tots should start to crisp up and the filling should be bubbly. This initial bake is crucial for the structure of your Easy Dolly Parton's 5-Ingredient Casserole.
06 - Remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the tater tots are golden brown.
07 - Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to set. Garnish with 2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.

# Notes:

01 - For a different flavor profile, try substituting cream of chicken soup for the cream of mushroom soup. You can also use ground turkey instead of ground beef for a lighter option.
02 - Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
03 - This hearty casserole is a meal in itself, but pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some steamed green beans to add fresh vegetables to your plate.
04 - Don't overcrowd your tater tots! Spreading them in a single layer ensures they get perfectly crispy on top, adding that essential texture to your casserole.

# Tools You'll Need:

01 - 9x13 inch baking dish
02 - large skillet
03 - mixing bowls
04 - measuring cups and spoons
05 - spatula

# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 559 kcal
Total Fat: 35 g
Total Carbohydrate: 31 g
Protein: 32 g