Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole
Introduction
If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s easy to make and loved by all, the Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is the way to go! This hearty casserole combines tender chicken, creamy ranch flavors, and crispy tater tots for a fun and delicious meal.
Why Make This Recipe
This casserole is perfect for busy families or any day you need a quick meal. It’s loaded with flavor and features ingredients you may already have in your kitchen. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser! My family devours it every time I make it, and it’s an excellent choice for gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy weekend dinner.
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 package (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 2 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to keep everything from sticking.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ranch seasoning, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Spread this chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in an even layer on top of the chicken mixture.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the tater tots.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped green onions if you like, and serve hot. Enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole
Serve this casserole warm right out of the oven. It’s perfect for dinner, and you can add a fresh salad on the side for a complete meal. Everyone will love digging in!
How to Store Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole
Let any leftovers cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container in the fridge. This casserole keeps well for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months; just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time if you’re in a rush.
- Feel free to add your favorite veggies, like peas or corn, to mix things up.
- For an extra cheesy flavor, try adding more cheese on top before baking!
Variation
You can also make this recipe with different proteins, like turkey or shredded beef. It’s very versatile, so get creative with what you have!
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before, cover it, and keep it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready.
Can I use homemade ranch seasoning instead of the packet? Absolutely! A homemade mix works great and can add even more flavor.
What if I don’t have bacon? You can simply leave it out, or use turkey bacon as a lighter option. The casserole will still be tasty!