Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is a comforting and easy dinner recipe perfect for busy nights. This Southern-inspired dish layers tender potatoes, juicy ground beef, sweet onions, and fire-roasted tomatoes, creating a hearty and flavorful meal. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s a simple high-protein meal the whole family will love. Try this quick and easy dinner for a fuss-free meal!
1 pound lean ground beef (85% or 90%)
3 large russet potatoes, sliced ¼-inch thick
2 sweet onions, sliced ¼-inch thick
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (preferably fire-roasted)
2 medium green bell peppers, diced
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional additions:
1 tablespoon diced butter
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper
Pepperoncini slices for garnish
Preheat oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer ingredients: Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the baking dish. Top with half of the sliced onions, diced green bell peppers, and half of the canned diced tomatoes. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Add beef layer: Spread the ground beef evenly over the vegetables. Season with additional salt and black pepper. If using, sprinkle garlic powder and crushed red pepper for extra flavor.
Final layer: Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, onions, green peppers, and diced tomatoes. Dot the top with diced butter for extra richness.
Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 60 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the casserole is bubbling.
Serve: Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with pepperoncini slices if desired.
You can use other types of ground meat, such as turkey or chicken, if you prefer a leaner option.
For extra creaminess, consider adding a layer of shredded cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
This casserole can be refrigerated and reheated, making it a great leftover option.