Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Ground Beef Casserole
Inspired by the legendary Dolly Parton, this 5-Ingredient Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that proves you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal. With tender ground beef, creamy russet potatoes, vibrant bell peppers, sweet onions, and tangy diced tomatoes, this one-dish wonder comes together effortlessly. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy family dinners, this casserole is as down-home and delightful as Dolly herself. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole is a testament to the magic of minimalism. With just five core ingredients (plus salt and pepper), it delivers big, bold flavors that warm the heart and soul. It’s budget-friendly, beginner-friendly, and endlessly adaptable, making it ideal for families, meal preppers, or anyone craving a no-fuss dinner. The rustic charm of Dolly Parton’s recipe, paired with its versatility, makes it a perfect addition to your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re a fan of the country music icon or just love a good casserole, this dish is guaranteed to hit all the right notes.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
For the Casserole:
- 1 pound lean ground beef (85% or 90% lean for less grease)
- 3 large russet potatoes (about 1.5–2 lbs), peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped (about 1 cup)
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juice (fire-roasted or regular)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
Optional Garnishes:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Colby Jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet (for browning beef)
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- 9×13-inch baking dish (or similar size)
- Aluminum foil
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of olive oil to prevent sticking. This casserole comes together quickly, so prepping your ingredients now will streamline the process.
Peel the russet potatoes and slice them into 1/4-inch rounds—aim for even slices to ensure consistent cooking. A mandoline slicer can make this step faster, but a sharp knife works just as well. Chop the green bell pepper and onion into small, bite-sized pieces for even distribution throughout the casserole.
Pro Tip: Soak the potato slices in cold water for 10 minutes to remove excess starch, then pat dry. This helps them cook up tender and prevents a gummy texture.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef. Break it up with a spatula or wooden spoon and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the casserole light and flavorful. Season the beef with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, stirring to combine. Remove the beef from heat and set aside.
Flavor Boost: For extra depth, add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the beef while browning.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
In the prepared baking dish, create a layer of potato slices, slightly overlapping them to cover the bottom. Sprinkle half of the chopped green bell pepper and half of the chopped onion over the potatoes. Spoon half of the browned ground beef evenly over the vegetables. Pour half of the can of diced tomatoes (with juice) over the beef, spreading it out with a spoon.
Repeat the layers: another layer of potatoes, the remaining bell pepper, onion, ground beef, and diced tomatoes. Finish with a final layer of potato slices on top for a rustic, golden crust. Season the top lightly with the remaining salt and pepper.
Presentation Tip: Arrange the top layer of potatoes in a neat pattern (like shingles) for a more polished look when baked.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and help the potatoes cook through. Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes to let the top layer of potatoes crisp up and turn golden.
If using cheese, sprinkle it over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking, allowing it to melt into a gooey, bubbly layer. Check that the casserole is fully cooked by ensuring the potatoes are soft and the juices are bubbling.
Time-Saver: To speed up cooking, parboil the potato slices for 5 minutes before layering, then reduce the covered baking time to 30 minutes.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes to set, making it easier to slice and serve. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, shredded cheese, or other optional garnishes for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot, scooping generous portions onto plates, and pair with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
This casserole is hearty enough to stand alone but shines alongside a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or buttery cornbread—perfect for channeling Dolly’s Southern hospitality!
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Serve with a simple Caesar salad, roasted carrots, or garlic bread to complement the casserole’s robust flavors. For a Southern twist, try it with coleslaw or baked beans.
- Beverages: Pair with a sweet iced tea, a light lager, or a fruity red wine like Pinot Noir to balance the dish’s savory notes.
- Presentation: Serve in the baking dish for a rustic, family-style vibe, or portion into individual bowls for a cozy, comforting meal. Garnish with a sprig of parsley or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flair.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding 5–10 minutes to the covered baking time if starting cold.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven (covered, at 350°F for 15–20 minutes) with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
- Freezing: Freeze the unbaked or baked casserole in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.
- Potato Swap: Yukon Gold or red potatoes can replace russets for a creamier or waxier texture, though russets hold their shape best.
- Leaner Option: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef to reduce fat content, or use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
Customization Ideas
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Mix in chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or corn for extra color and nutrition. Sauté them with the beef to soften before layering.
- Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño, a pinch of cayenne, or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato layer for a fiery twist.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Stir 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend) into the layers for a gooey, indulgent casserole.
- Herb Boost: Sprinkle fresh or dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary over the layers for a Mediterranean or Italian flair.
- Protein Swap: Replace ground beef with ground sausage, chorizo, or shredded rotisserie chicken for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Benefits
This casserole is a balanced, hearty meal:
- Ground Beef: High in protein, iron, and B12, supporting muscle health and energy.
- Potatoes: Rich in potassium, fiber (especially with skin), and complex carbs for sustained energy.
- Bell Peppers: Packed with vitamin C and antioxidants for immunity and skin health.
- Tomatoes: Loaded with lycopene, a heart-healthy antioxidant.
- Onions: Contain prebiotics and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Approximate Nutrition (per serving, based on 6 servings, without cheese): 320 calories, 18g protein, 12g fat, 35g carbs (values vary based on portion size and ingredients).
Why This Recipe Works for Your AdSense Site
This Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is a monetization gem because it’s:
- SEO-Optimized: Keywords like “Dolly Parton casserole,” “5-ingredient ground beef recipe,” and “easy comfort food dinner” drive organic traffic.
- Engaging: The celebrity connection, simple ingredients, and cozy appeal keep readers on the page, increasing ad impressions. High-quality photos (add your own) of the golden casserole will boost dwell time.
- Shareable: The recipe’s simplicity and nostalgic vibe make it perfect for Pinterest, Facebook, and food blogs, especially for budget-conscious or Southern cuisine audiences.
- Evergreen and Relatable: This dish appeals year-round, particularly in fall and winter, and resonates with readers seeking affordable, family-friendly meals.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes! Yukon Gold potatoes offer a buttery flavor, while red potatoes are waxy and hold their shape. Russets are ideal for their starchy texture, which absorbs flavors well.
What if I don’t have lean ground beef?
Use regular ground beef (80% lean) and drain excess fat thoroughly. Ground turkey, chicken, or pork are great alternatives.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free. Double-check the canned tomatoes for any added ingredients if you have sensitivities.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Swap the ground beef for a plant-based ground meat substitute or cooked lentils, and use vegetable broth if adding liquid to the layers.
How do I prevent soggy potatoes?
Slice potatoes evenly, avoid overcrowding the dish, and don’t skip draining the beef fat. Uncovering the casserole for the final bake helps evaporate excess moisture.
Connecting with Previous Recipes
To tie this recipe to the Mediterranean-inspired chicken recipes you shared (Grilled Chicken Thighs, Lemon Thyme Chicken Roulade, Bruschetta Chicken), consider presenting it as a contrasting comfort-food option in a broader article, such as “4 Easy Dinners: Mediterranean Chicken and Classic Comfort Food”. Here’s how it fits:
- Flavor Contrast: While the chicken recipes lean toward bright, fresh Mediterranean flavors, this casserole offers hearty, savory comfort, appealing to readers who want variety.
- Menu Planning: Suggest serving the casserole as a main dish with the Avocado Tomato Salad (from the Grilled Chicken Thighs recipe) as a fresh side, or pair it with the Lemon-Thyme Pan Sauce (from the Roulade) for a zesty drizzle.
- Thematic Cohesion: Highlight the simplicity and crowd-pleasing nature of all four recipes, emphasizing how they cater to different occasions (e.g., Bruschetta Chicken for summer, Casserole for winter).
If you prefer separate posts, this recipe stands alone as a budget-friendly, celebrity-inspired dish with strong SEO potential.
Final Thoughts
Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is a love letter to simple, soulful cooking. With its tender potatoes, savory beef, and vibrant vegetables, it’s a dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to any table. Whether you’re channeling Dolly’s Southern charm or just need a quick, affordable dinner, this casserole delivers. Share it with your readers, pair it with cozy photos, and watch it become a hit on your AdSense website. As Dolly might say, “It’s a little bit of love baked into every bite!”
