Gluten-Free Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
Whether you’re gluten-sensitive or simply looking for a quick and satisfying meal, this Gluten-Free Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is sure to become a staple in your home. Join me as we explore the origins of this dish and discover why it’s a must-try for any food lover!
What is Gluten-Free Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole?
The Gluten-Free Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is a delightful dish that embodies the spirit of comfort food with a modern twist. Inspired by the legendary country singer, this casserole reflects the simplicity and heartiness of Southern cooking, making it accessible to everyone, especially those with gluten sensitivities. The recipe combines familiar ingredients that come together to create a warm, satisfying meal that feels like a hug on a plate.
This casserole is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of family and togetherness. With its roots in American cuisine, it showcases how traditional recipes can be adapted to fit contemporary dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. The use of gluten-free pasta ensures that everyone can enjoy this dish, while the creamy mushroom soup and melted cheese add layers of richness that make it irresistible. It’s a perfect example of how food can bring people together, regardless of dietary restrictions.
Why You’ll Love This Gluten-Free Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
- Quick and Easy: With just five ingredients, this casserole comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Deliciously Comforting: The creamy texture and cheesy goodness create a dish that warms the soul.
- Health-Conscious: Gluten-free and packed with protein from chicken and cheese, it’s a nutritious option for families.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the familiar flavors, making it a hit at the dinner table.
Who It’s For
This casserole is perfect for busy families looking for a quick meal solution, health-conscious cooks who want to enjoy comfort food without gluten, and food lovers who appreciate simple yet flavorful dishes. Whether you’re a parent juggling work and home life or someone who enjoys hosting friends for dinner, this recipe caters to all. It’s a versatile dish that can easily adapt to various dietary preferences, making it a go-to for any occasion.
When to Cook It
Gluten-Free Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is ideal for a variety of occasions. It shines as a weeknight dinner when time is short, but it’s also perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even cozy nights in. You can whip it up for a casual celebration or serve it as a comforting meal after a long day. No matter the occasion, this casserole is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to your table.
- 1 cup of gluten-free pasta: Any shape works, such as penne or fusilli. This is the base of your casserole.
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup: Adds creaminess and flavor. You can substitute with homemade gluten-free cream soup if preferred.
- 1 cup of shredded cheese: Cheddar or a blend works well. For a dairy-free option, use vegan cheese.
- 1 cup of cooked chicken: Shredded or diced. You can swap it for rotisserie chicken or even canned chicken for convenience.
- 1/2 cup of milk: Use any milk of your choice, including almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking.
- Cook the pasta: Boil water in a pot, add the gluten-free pasta, and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheese, cooked chicken, and milk. Stir until everything is well mixed and coated.
- Prepare the casserole dish: Grease a baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Pour and bake: Transfer the mixture into the greased casserole dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Stevia: A natural sweetener with zero calories, perfect for adding sweetness without sugar.
- Monk fruit: Another natural option that provides sweetness without affecting blood sugar levels.
- Allulose: A low-calorie sugar that tastes like sugar but has minimal impact on blood glucose.
- Note: Avoid using honey or maple syrup, as they can spike blood sugar levels significantly.
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining pasta
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Greased casserole dish
- Oven mitts
- Spatula or wooden spoon for mixing
- Use Quality Ingredients: Chef Giordana emphasizes that the best casseroles start with high-quality ingredients. Opt for fresh, gluten-free pasta and organic chicken for enhanced flavor.
- Layer Flavors: Renowned chef Ina Garten suggests adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the dish. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can make a world of difference.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Chef Jamie Oliver advises cooking the pasta just until al dente. It will continue to cook in the oven, preventing a mushy texture.
- Experiment with Cheese: Chef Rachael Ray recommends trying different cheese blends for a unique twist. Mixing mozzarella with cheddar can create a delightful flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: Chef Martha Stewart suggests preparing the casserole in advance. Assemble it the night before and refrigerate, then bake it fresh the next day for convenience.
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover Gluten-Free Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure to label it with the date.
- Thawing: When ready to eat, thaw the frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Tip: To keep the top from drying out, cover the casserole with foil while reheating in the oven.
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the gluten-free pasta too long can lead to a mushy texture in the casserole. Aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Using Non-Gluten-Free Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, especially the pasta and cream of mushroom soup. Cross-contamination can occur if you use regular products.
- Skipping the Greasing Step: Not greasing the casserole dish can result in sticking, making it difficult to serve. A light coat of cooking spray or butter will help prevent this.
- Not Mixing Thoroughly: Failing to mix the ingredients well can lead to uneven distribution of flavors. Make sure everything is well combined for the best taste.
- Ignoring Cooking Times: Baking the casserole for too long can dry it out. Keep an eye on it and remove it from the oven once the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Q: Is Gluten-Free Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer.
Q: Can I make Gluten-Free Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole vegetarian?
It depends. You can substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein or additional vegetables to make it vegetarian-friendly.
Q: Is Gluten-Free Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole kid-friendly?
Yes, kids love this casserole! Its creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it appealing to even the pickiest eaters.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese in Gluten-Free Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Mixing varieties like mozzarella and cheddar can enhance the flavor.
Q: Is Gluten-Free Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole easy to make?
Yes, this casserole is incredibly easy to make, requiring just five ingredients and minimal prep time!
In conclusion, Gluten-Free Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is a delightful dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. Its simplicity and flavor make it a go-to recipe for busy families and food lovers alike. I encourage you to try this easy casserole and share your experiences in the comments below. What variations did you make? Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together!
PrintGluten-Free Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
A simple and delicious gluten-free casserole inspired by Dolly Parton, made with just five ingredients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 cup of gluten-free pasta
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup of shredded cheese
- 1 cup of cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup of milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions and drain.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheese, cooked chicken, and milk.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Notes
- Feel free to add vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Make sure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
