Why Potatoes Are Dolly's Undisputed Favorite
For many celebrities, their favorite food might be a Michelin-star delicacy or an exotic dish, but for Dolly Parton, it's the humble potato. In a viral 2022 video for Wired Magazine, she famously declared, "I never met a spud I didn't like!". This lifelong affection for potatoes is rooted in her upbringing in rural Tennessee, where potatoes were a versatile and affordable staple. Her love for the tuber extends to all its forms, whether it's mashed potatoes, french fries, or a simple baked potato. In her latest cookbook, Good Lookin' Cookin', co-authored with her sister Rachel, the Partons share various potato recipes that showcase its versatility, from mashed and whipped potatoes to skillet-fried variations that result in a crispy skin and fluffy interior. Dolly even revealed a quick, simple way to make a baked potato when she's in a rush, simply microwaving it and topping it with butter, salsa, and a "Dolly dollop" of sour cream.
Signature Southern Dishes from Her Kitchen
The Legendary Chicken and Dumplings
Perhaps her most famous culinary creation is her signature chicken and dumplings. This classic comfort dish is so beloved that it's become a sought-after request on her movie sets, with co-stars eagerly anticipating her announcement that the dumplings are coming. The recipe is a cherished family tradition passed down from her mother, but Dolly keeps her version a closely guarded secret, stating the main ingredient is always love.
Other Cherished Family Meals
Beyond her dumplings, Dolly's kitchen is a testament to traditional Southern cooking. Her favorite hearty meals are often simple and nostalgic, reminding her of her childhood. These include:
- Family Favorite Meatloaf: Her family's meatloaf uses a mix of ground beef and pork, along with rolled oats instead of breadcrumbs for a moist texture.
- Pork Roast: She has confessed her love for roast pork, especially the fatty parts, a dish served with classic Southern sides.
- Turnip Greens and Fried Okra: These are among her favorite vegetables, often accompanying her meat dishes.
A Sweet Tooth for Classic Desserts
Nostalgic Pies and Puddings
While she loves all things sweet, Dolly has a particular fondness for pie over cake on her birthday, specifically the Southern classic, chess pie. Another deeply sentimental dessert is her mother's banana pudding, a creamy, custard-based classic layered with vanilla wafers and topped with meringue, a tradition that started when her mother would buy discounted bananas.
Dollywood Delights
At her theme park, Dollywood, the culinary offerings also capture Dolly's down-home taste. While the cinnamon bread is a fan favorite, Dolly herself is "crazy for funnel cake," a fried dough topped with powdered sugar that she loves so much she orders it to her tour bus.
Relatable Fast Food and Restaurant Cravings
Despite her superstar status, Dolly is not above grabbing a quick, comforting meal from a fast-food chain. She's a known fan of Taco Bell, particularly the Soft Taco Supreme, and was famously vocal about the return of the Mexican Pizza. For a local taste, she also frequents the Frank Allen Grill in her hometown of Sevierville, Tennessee, for their slaw dog.
Dolly's Favorite Food Comparison
| Food Type | Example Dishes | Preparation Style | Connected Memories |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comfort Classics (Home) | Chicken and Dumplings, Meatloaf, Roast Pork | Simple, family recipes often from her mother | Movie set gatherings, family gatherings, childhood |
| Humble Favorites (Home) | Potatoes (Baked, Mashed, Fries), Southern Greens | Versatile, often with butter and simple seasonings | A constant in her diet, a weakness on any diet |
| Fast Food Treats | Taco Bell Soft Taco Supreme, Frank Allen's Slaw Dog | Quick and easy, for when on the road or in a hurry | Road trips with her husband, relatable cravings |
| Sentimental Desserts | Mama's Banana Pudding, Chess Pie, Coconut Cake | Traditional, Southern baked goods | Childhood desserts from her mother, birthday tradition |
| Dollywood Indulgences | Funnel Cake, Cinnamon Bread | Fair food classics with a touch of Dollywood magic | Enjoying the atmosphere of her theme park |
Cookbooks and Collaborations
Dolly's love for home cooking has translated into several ventures. Her cookbook, Good Lookin' Cookin', which she wrote with her sister Rachel, offers readers a glimpse into their family kitchen. She has also partnered with Duncan Hines to release a line of baking mixes, including classics like banana nut muffins and buttermilk biscuits, allowing fans to bring a taste of her Southern charm into their own homes.
Conclusion: The Taste of Home
What's Dolly Parton's favorite food? The answer, like the woman herself, is a tapestry of simple, heartfelt pleasures. From her profound and unwavering love for the humble potato to her closely guarded chicken and dumplings recipe and nostalgic desserts, her food choices are a warm reflection of her down-to-earth persona and Appalachian roots. Ultimately, for Dolly, the best food is the kind that feels like home, prepared with plenty of butter and, of course, a whole lot of love.
For more insight into Dolly's cooking and products, read more on Food Network.
