Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy tater tots, creamy ranch-seasoned sauce, savory chicken, and crispy bacon into one irresistible dish. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners, and loved by both kids and adults. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead meal for busy schedules.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 (16-ounce) package frozen tater tots
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, ranch dressing, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the cooked chicken evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the sauce-covered chicken.
- Layer the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the tater tots.
Step 4: Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Add More Cheese
Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
- Vegetable Boost: Mix in peas, broccoli, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Buffalo Style: Swap the ranch dressing for buffalo sauce to give it a tangy, spicy flavor.
- Different Protein: Substitute cooked ground beef or turkey for the chicken.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace tater tots with cauliflower tots.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
What can I use instead of condensed soup?
You can make a homemade sauce by combining 1 cup of heavy cream with 1 tablespoon of flour and 1/2 cup of chicken broth. Cook until thickened before using.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
Yes, diced or shredded potatoes will work, but they may require additional cooking time.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
Can I add more cheese?
Absolutely! Adjust the cheese amounts based on your preference.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
Most ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but check the labels of your condensed soup and ranch dressing to be sure.
What’s the best way to crisp up the tater tots?
For extra crispiness, bake the tater tots for 10 minutes before adding them to the casserole.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds extra flavor.
What other cheese works well in this recipe?
Try pepper jack for a spicy twist or gouda for a smoky flavor.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cheese, a non-dairy ranch dressing, and coconut or almond-based cream alternatives.
Conclusion
Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, and family gatherings. With its creamy, cheesy texture and crispy topping, it’s bound to be a favorite. Try it with your own variations and enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal!
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