Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole

A Comforting, Flavor-Packed Casserole

Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy tater tots, tender chicken, smoky bacon, and creamy ranch seasoning into one irresistible dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this casserole is hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make – Uses simple, readily available ingredients.
• Crowd-pleaser – A hit with both kids and adults.
• Great for leftovers – Tastes just as good the next day.
• Customizable – Easy to tweak based on your preferences.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked, shredded or diced chicken
• 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 ½ cups cooked, crumbled bacon
• 1 (28-32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
• ½ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the condensed soup, sour cream, ranch seasoning, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

• Add the cooked chicken, 1 cup of shredded cheese, and half of the crumbled bacon to the mixture. Stir to evenly coat.
• Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
• Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top.

Step 4: Bake

Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, until the tater tots are golden and crispy.

Step 5: Add the Final Touches

• Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese and the rest of the crumbled bacon over the top.
• Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Veggie Boost: Mix in peas, corn, or chopped bell peppers.
• Protein Swap: Use ground beef, turkey, or rotisserie chicken.
• Different Cheeses: Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this casserole ahead of time?

Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?

Yes, diced or shredded potatoes work, but you may need to pre-cook them slightly to ensure they soften.

What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

Make a homemade version by combining 1 cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of flour, and 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan until thickened.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

Use reduced-fat sour cream, cheese, and milk, and opt for turkey bacon for a lower-calorie version.

Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the tater tots are crispy.

What goes well with this casserole?

Pair it with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.

Can I add more seasoning?

Absolutely! Paprika, cayenne, or Italian seasoning can enhance the flavor.

Will the tater tots stay crispy?

They stay crispy on top, but mixing them into the casserole may make them softer.

Can I use ranch dressing instead of seasoning mix?

Ranch dressing has more liquid, which may make the casserole runny, so it’s best to stick with dry seasoning.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven for best texture, as the microwave may make the tater tots soggy.

Conclusion

Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is an easy, satisfying dish loaded with bold flavors and crispy goodness. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to be a favorite. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy, bacon-filled delight with minimal effort and maximum taste!

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