Dolly Parton, the legendary singer and entrepreneur, isn’t just known for her hit songs like “I Will Always Love You” and “Jolene,” but also for her dynamic approach to life. At 78 years old, she continues to thrive, juggling her career as a writer, singer, actor, philanthropist, and businesswoman. But how does the star fuel her energy for such a full schedule?
In her 2021 cookbook Good Lookin’ Cookin’ and through her collaboration with Lodge for a line of cast-iron skillets, Dolly has also shown her love for cooking. So, what does Dolly Parton eat in a day?
Breakfast
Parton starts her day early, often around 3 a.m. She kicks off with Folgers coffee, calling it her “cup of ambition.” She likes her coffee with plenty of cream—just a little more than tan—and it keeps her energized throughout the day. Along with her coffee, she enjoys homemade egg salad, often paired with toast and tomato. Another favorite breakfast option is a bagel with cream cheese, cucumbers, and tomatoes. She also loves scrambled eggs and has a secret for fluffier eggs—adding a sprinkle of ice water while cooking!
Lunch
When on tour, Parton fills her bus freezer with low-carb homemade meals, sticking to her weekly diet plan. At home, however, she enjoys indulging in comfort food. A Sunday tradition with her husband includes making cornbread and pairing it with a side of baked potatoes—her all-time favorite food. Other meals she loves include seafood and a salad with ranch dressing.
Dinner
Dolly’s dinner specialties often include chicken and dumplings, or classic Southern dishes like roast pork, green beans, and fried okra. But she’s not just about Southern cuisine—she enjoys a variety of flavors, including Indian, Italian, and Mexican food. When it’s a romantic evening, she favors French cuisine. Parton values simplicity in food, admitting she doesn’t like “pretty” food—if it looks too fancy, it’s not for her.
For drinks, Parton prefers red wine, especially those with a slight dry finish. And when she’s on an RV road trip, she enjoys fast food. Taco Bell is one of her favorites, particularly their tacos and little pizzas.
The Bottom Line
Dolly Parton’s diet isn’t about strict rules or rigid restrictions; she enjoys food that makes her feel good. Although she could benefit from more fruits and vegetables, her meals are diverse and hearty. Parton embraces a balanced diet with room for indulgences on the weekends, proving that moderation works for her. As she famously says, she’s tried every diet—some that weren’t even in the book!
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