Pin it
Craving comfort food that hits all the right notes This Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole brings together creamy ranch sauce crisp golden tater tots juicy chicken and smoky bacon for the ultimate weeknight dinner The irresistible blend of flavors is just what you need when life gets busy and everyone wants seconds
The first time I made this was for a last minute game night with friends and there wasn't a single crumb left It became my go to when I wanted everyone smiling around the table
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken cubed: Select fresh or rotisserie chicken for tender bites pre cooked saves time
- Thick cut bacon crispy: Go for high quality thick slices for maximum smokiness and crunch
- Ranch seasoning packet: Opt for the original variety or choose your favorite blend for that signature tangy kick
- Frozen tater tots: Always use them frozen for crispiness choose your favorite brand
- Sour cream: Adds tang and creaminess use full fat for richness or light for a lighter option
- Cream of chicken soup: Delivers velvety body choose low sodium if you watch salt intake
- Sharp cheddar cheese shredded: Provides melty richness opt for extra sharp for more flavor and shred your own for better melt
- Green onions chopped: Sprinkle for color and fresh bite make sure they are perky and bright green
- Salt and pepper: For seasoning to taste fresh cracked is best
Step by Step Instructions
- Prep the Oven
- Set your oven to 375 F and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish so nothing sticks
- Mix the Filling
- In a big mixing bowl gently stir together the cubed chicken crispy bacon sour cream and cream of chicken soup Mix until everything is smoothly combined to form the creamy base
- Add Seasoning
- Fold in the ranch seasoning packet and three quarters of the shredded cheddar making sure the cheese and seasoning are evenly throughout the mixture Taste and adjust with salt and pepper
- Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly in your greased dish This is your foundation layer
- Top with Tater Tots
- Arrange frozen tater tots in a single tight layer over the whole surface completely covering the filling For extra crunch pack them closely
- Bake to Perfection
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for thirty to thirty five minutes Watch for the tater tots to turn deep golden and crispy
- Finish with Cheese
- In the last five minutes sprinkle the rest of the cheddar on top so it melts into gooey goodness
- Garnish and Serve
- Once bubbling and golden take it out of the oven Garnish with more bacon bits and fresh chopped green onions before serving hot
Pin it
For me the real star is the ranch It brings all the other ingredients together and reminds me of pizza night with my little brother He would always sneak extra ranch on his slice and I finally get it now
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers cool the casserole completely and cover tightly with foil in the fridge It will stay tasty for up to four days For best results reheat it uncovered in a 350 F oven to restore crispiness on the tots
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap in turkey for chicken if you have some left from the holidays If you need to keep things gluten free use a gluten free cream soup and check your ranch packet You can also use diced cooked ham for a fun twist
Serving Suggestions
I love serving this with a simple crisp green salad or steamed broccoli on the side It rounds out the meal and balances the richness For gatherings offer extra sour cream or hot sauce on the table
Cultural and Historical Context
The marriage of tater tots bacon and creamy sauces comes straight from Midwestern kitchen traditions Casseroles like this one were family staples in my childhood Canadian border town because they stretch leftovers and bring everyone together around a bubbling hot dish
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I keep tater tots extra crispy?
Use frozen tater tots straight from the bag and arrange them in a single layer on top. Avoid thawing for the best crunch.
- → Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes! Assemble the dish and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if chilled.
- → What cheese varieties can I use?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but try pepper jack for spice or a blend for extra flavor depth.
- → Are there recommended vegetable additions?
Broccoli, corn, or peas can be mixed in for color and nutrition. Add before baking with the main mixture.
- → How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Cover and refrigerate leftovers. Reheat portions in the oven to restore crispiness, or use a microwave for convenience.