Why Make This Recipe
Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is a delicious and easy dish that combines everyone’s favorite flavors: chicken, bacon, ranch, and cheesy goodness. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, a potluck, or a cozy family meal. The combination of crispy tater tots and the creamy chicken mixture makes it a crowd-pleaser that is sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients:
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 4 cooked, shredded chicken breasts
- 32 oz. frozen tater tots
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the butter, flour, milk, and ranch dressing until it forms a creamy sauce.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy sauce with the shredded chicken, chopped bacon, and shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spread the frozen tater tots evenly in the bottom of a baking dish.
- Layer the chicken and sauce mixture over the tater tots.
- Top with additional shredded cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the casserole is golden and bubbly.
How to Serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole
Serve this casserole hot, right out of the oven. It makes a great main dish and can be paired with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also sprinkle some extra chopped bacon or green onions on top for added flavor and garnish.
How to Store Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The casserole can be kept for 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply put it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
Tips to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole
- Make sure to cook the chicken thoroughly before shredding it.
- You can use leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- If you want a bit more kick, add some hot sauce or pepper flakes to the sauce mixture.
- For a healthier version, you can substitute turkey bacon and use low-fat ranch dressing.
Variation
You can customize this casserole by adding vegetables like diced bell peppers, corn, or broccoli. If you prefer a different sauce, try using BBQ sauce instead of ranch for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use fresh chicken. Just cook and shred it before mixing it with the other ingredients.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving.
3. What can I do if I don’t have ranch dressing?
If you don’t have ranch dressing, you can make your own or use a different dressing like blue cheese or Caesar, depending on your taste preference.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped Use crispy cooked bacon.
- 4 pieces cooked, shredded chicken breasts Leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken works well.
- 32 oz frozen tater tots Use your favorite brand.
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing Use as a base for the sauce.
- 1 cup milk Whole milk recommended for creaminess.
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour To thicken the sauce.
- 3 tbsp butter For making the sauce.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese Can substitute with other cheese.
- Salt & pepper to taste Adjust according to preference.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the butter, flour, milk, and ranch dressing until it forms a creamy sauce.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy sauce with the shredded chicken, chopped bacon, and shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assembly
- Spread the frozen tater tots evenly in the bottom of a baking dish.
- Layer the chicken and sauce mixture over the tater tots.
- Top with additional shredded cheese.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the casserole is golden and bubbly.