When comfort food meets Southern charm, you get Dolly Parton’s Pizza Casserole — a cozy, cheesy dish that combines the flavors of a classic pizza with the heartwarming touch of a Southern-style bake. It’s saucy, rich, and loaded with gooey cheese and pepperoni, making it the perfect all-in-one dinner for family nights, potlucks, or any time you’re craving a comforting meal with a little twang.
This casserole brings together the best of both worlds — Italian-inspired ingredients layered with the creamy, hearty goodness that defines Southern cooking. Tender chicken (or ground beef, if you prefer) is mixed with pizza sauce, cream of mushroom soup, melty cheese, and zesty seasonings for a filling that’s both familiar and unique. The buttery cracker topping gives it that signature Dolly-style crunch, adding an irresistible contrast to the creamy layers below.
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What makes this recipe shine is its simplicity and versatility. It’s easy to throw together with pantry staples, yet the end result tastes like something you spent hours perfecting. The combination of mozzarella and cheddar provides the perfect melt, while mini pepperoni adds that beloved pizza flavor in every bite.
Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners, this casserole captures the spirit of Dolly herself — warm, comforting, and guaranteed to make everyone at the table smile. Pair it with a crisp green salad and garlic breadsticks for a complete “pizza night” Southern-style feast.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: Serves 6
- Total time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken (or ground beef if preferred)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup pizza sauce (or marinara)
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 sleeve buttery round crackers (like Ritz), crushed
- ½ cup mini pepperoni (plus extra for topping)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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