Name: Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Country-Style Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 pound breakfast sausage; 1 package frozen hashbrowns (about 26 oz); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup sour cream; 1 can cream of mushroom soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is the epitome of Southern comfort food. It’s easy to prepare, only requiring five ingredients, and is packed with flavor. The combination of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and fluffy hashbrowns creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, so you can tweak the ingredients to your liking. Whether you serve it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, Dolly Parton’s casserole will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients

1 pound breakfast sausage
1 package frozen hashbrowns (about 26 oz)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup sour cream
1 can cream of mushroom soup

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked sausage, frozen hashbrowns, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and cream of mushroom soup.
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Bake for 45 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and golden on top.
Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit the sausage entirely for a vegetarian version.
Add Vegetables: You can mix in some sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or use spicy sausage.
Cheese Variations: Try using different types of cheese such as pepper jack or mozzarella for a unique twist on the dish.
Use Different Soups: Instead of cream of mushroom soup, try cream of chicken or cream of celery soup.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or cover the casserole with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until hot.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. When you’re ready to cook, just pop it in the oven.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just assemble it as instructed, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then cook as directed.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?

Yes, you can use fresh potatoes. Simply peel and grate the potatoes, then sauté them in a pan until tender before mixing them into the casserole.

Can I use a different type of meat in this casserole?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even bacon can be used in place of the traditional breakfast sausage.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is done when it is bubbly, golden on top, and the center is hot. You can also check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F.

Can I add extra cheese to the top?

Definitely! Feel free to sprinkle more cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking to give it an extra cheesy crust.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

This casserole is naturally gluten-free if you use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure your hashbrowns do not contain gluten.

Can I make this casserole without sour cream?

Yes, you can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt or even cream cheese for a slightly different flavor and texture.

Can I use homemade hashbrowns?

Yes, you can make your own hashbrowns from scratch if you prefer. Just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the grated potatoes before using them in the casserole.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely! Simply double all the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. You may need to increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of your dish.

Conclusion

Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Country-Style Casserole is an easy, comforting, and delicious meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a brunch, this dish will impress without requiring hours of prep. With just a handful of ingredients, it delivers all the rich, savory flavors you crave, and the best part is you can make it your own with simple variations. Try it today and enjoy the comfort of a Southern classic!