Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole

Looking for a delicious and easy dinner idea that everyone in the family will love? Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort food dish that combines tender chicken, crunchy tater tots, and crispy bacon all smothered in creamy ranch sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole is not only simple to make but also highly customizable, making it a great option for various taste preferences.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 450
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg

Why Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is not only a mouthwatering dish but also a time-saver! With pre-cooked chicken and frozen tater tots, you can throw this meal together in no time. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover chicken, making it a great economical choice for families. The creamy ranch dressing adds flavor while the tater tots give the dish a satisfying crunch. You can even sneak in some veggies to boost the nutrition!

How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole Step by Step

Ingredients

• 4 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
• 32 oz frozen tater tots
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 3 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt & pepper

Directions

Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk until the mixture thickens. Stir in ranch dressing, salt, and pepper. In a bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, chopped bacon, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese with the sauce. Spread the frozen tater tots in a greased 9×13 inch dish, layer the chicken mixture on top, and sprinkle with the remaining cheese. Bake at 375°F for 30–35 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and golden.

How to Serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole

This casserole is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed veggies. You might also serve it with extra ranch dressing or a tangy barbecue sauce on the side for those who love extra flavor.

How to Store Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. If you want to freeze it, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Expert Tips for Cooking Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole

• For extra flavor, add diced onions or bell peppers to the chicken mixture.
• Use different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist.
• For a crispy topping, use crushed potato chips in place of extra tater tots.
• Always ensure your chicken is well-seasoned for maximum flavor.
• Cook times may vary, so keep an eye on your casserole to avoid overcooking.

Delicious Variations of Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole

• Spicy Chicken Bacon Ranch: Add diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture for a kick.
• Italian Chicken Bacon Ranch: Toss in some Italian herbs and replace ranch dressing with Alfredo sauce for a creamy Italian dish.
• Vegetarian Tater Tot Casserole: Substitute the chicken with black beans and add corn and diced tomatoes for a vegetarian delight.

If you’ve never tried Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole, you’re missing out! This dish is simple, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a potluck, it’s sure to be a hit! So grab your ingredients and enjoy this tasty meal that’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.