Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is the perfect comfort food, combining crispy tater tots, creamy ranch-seasoned chicken, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon in one satisfying dish. It’s an easy-to-make meal that will quickly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
• A crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults
• Great for meal prep and leftovers
• A delicious blend of creamy, cheesy, and crispy textures
• Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or game nights

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• Ranch seasoning mix
• Bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Tater tots
• Cheddar cheese, shredded
• Milk
• Sour cream
• Cream of chicken soup
• Green onions (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with ranch seasoning, milk, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup. Mix well.
3. Spread the chicken mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese and crumbled bacon over the chicken layer.
5. Arrange the tater tots in a single layer over the top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining cheese and bacon over the top.
8. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted.
9. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
• Different Cheese: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Colby Jack, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetable Boost: Add peas, bell peppers, or spinach to make it a more balanced meal.
• Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with ground beef or turkey for a different twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How do I make this casserole ahead of time?

You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but make sure to fully cook and shred it before using in the casserole.

What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

You can make a homemade version using butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk for a fresher alternative.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Absolutely! Broccoli, peas, or bell peppers make great additions.

How do I make this dish lower in fat?

Use light sour cream, reduced-fat cheese, and turkey bacon for a lighter version.

Can I use homemade ranch seasoning?

Yes, a blend of garlic powder, onion powder, dill, parsley, and salt can replace the store-bought mix.

Do I need to thaw tater tots before baking?

No, use them straight from the freezer for the best texture.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours.

What’s the best cheese for this recipe?

Cheddar is a great choice, but Colby Jack or Monterey Jack also work well.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, simply use a larger baking dish or two smaller ones to accommodate the ingredients.

Conclusion

Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is an irresistible, creamy, and cheesy dish that is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a special gathering, its ease of preparation and comforting flavors make it a winning recipe. Try it today and enjoy a meal that’s both satisfying and simple!

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