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Comfort Food Queen: How to Make Dolly Parton’s 5-Layer Casserole

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A warm, layered classic inspired by Dolly Parton’s family table. This comforting five-layer casserole combines tender potatoes, seasoned beef, sweet onions, bell peppers, and juicy tomatoes—perfect for potlucks, Sunday dinners, or anytime you crave cozy simplicity.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6–8 1x

Ingredients

Scale

3 large russet potatoes (or 6 small), thinly sliced
1 lb ground beef
1 to 2 medium onions, sliced
1 to green bell peppers, chopped
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes or 2 fresh tomatoes, sliced
1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Optional: garlic salt, dried basil, or any favorite seasoning blend

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 13×9 casserole dish.
Step 2: Spread a layer of sliced potatoes on the bottom of the dish. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and optional garlic salt.
Step 3: Brown the ground beef in a skillet, seasoning to taste. Drain excess fat.
Step 4: Layer the cooked ground beef over the potatoes.
Step 5: Add sliced onions as the next layer.
Step 6: Top with chopped bell peppers.
Step 7: Pour diced tomatoes (with juice) evenly over the top.
Step 8: Cover the dish tightly with foil.
Step 9: Bake for 1 hour 10 minutes to 2 hours, until potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 10: Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Add shredded cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy twist.
Swap the ground beef with Italian sausage, turkey, or sautéed mushrooms for variety.
Want a little kick? Add crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
Celery can be used instead of green pepper for a milder flavor.
Leftovers store well and taste even better the next day—just reheat and enjoy.

  • Author: Emilie Faivre
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American
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