Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s packed with flavor, then you’re in for a treat with this Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole. It’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with crispy bacon bits and golden tater tots. Perfect for a family dinner, game day, or any gathering where you want to impress with minimal effort. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it a go-to weeknight meal.
- The creamy ranch flavor perfectly complements the savory chicken and bacon.
- Crispy tater tots add a delightful texture that everyone loves.
- It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit different tastes.
- Great for meal prep and tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 (10 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with cooking spray.
Step 2: Mix the Chicken Filling
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, ranch dressing mix, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Top with an even layer of tater tots, then sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy hot!
Notes
- To make it lighter, use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. Learn more about the benefits of Greek yogurt.
- For an added kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes before baking.
- You can use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add jalapeños and hot sauce for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for mushrooms and broccoli.
- BBQ Twist: Mix in barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor.
Required Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Oven
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Suggested Pairings
This casserole pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad and a side of steamed vegetables.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole
- For extra crispiness, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end. Here’s how to broil effectively.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
FAQ
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh on the day you plan to serve.
Can I freeze Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
What can I use instead of tater tots?
Potato crowns or hash browns can be used as an alternative for a different texture.