Now you’re speaking my language! Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, with crispy tater tots, creamy ranch, and smoky bacon. Here’s how to make it!
Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole
(Serves 4-6)
Ingredients:
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 package (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 6–8 slices)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or 3 tbsp homemade ranch seasoning)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for greasing the baking dish)
Optional Toppings (for extra flavor):
- Green onions or chives, sliced
- Extra crispy bacon bits
- A drizzle of ranch dressing after baking
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or butter.
2. Prepare the Casserole Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sour cream, ranch seasoning, and milk. Stir until well combined.
- Add cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon to the mixture. Fold everything together to evenly distribute the flavors.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread the tater tots in an even layer at the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Pour the chicken mixture evenly over the tater tots, spreading it out with a spatula to cover the tots.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
4. Bake:
- Bake the casserole for about 30 minutes, or until the tater tots are crispy and golden, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- If you want extra crispy tots, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes at the end, watching closely so they don’t burn.
5. Top and Serve:
- Once out of the oven, sprinkle some extra crispy bacon and green onions or chives on top for a little extra crunch and flavor.
- Serve hot, with a drizzle of ranch dressing on top, if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for ease—just shred it and you’re good to go!
- Crispier tots: Broil at the end to get them extra crispy.
- If you’re in the mood for more veggies, spinach, broccoli, or corn are great additions to the casserole.
Variations:
- Buffalo Chicken Version: Add 1/4 cup buffalo sauce to the chicken mixture for a spicy kick!
- Cheese Variety: Mix in some Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack cheese for different flavors.
This casserole is total comfort food! It’s cheesy, creamy, and savory with that crispy bite from the tots. You could definitely serve it as a dinner or even a fun, shareable side for a party.
Would you like some side ideas or drinks to go with it?
