Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole

“Indulge in comfort with our Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole, a hearty dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch flavors with the satisfying crunch of tater tots. Baked to perfection with layers of Cheddar cheese and a rich blend of sour cream and cream of chicken soup, every bite promises a comforting harmony of textures and tastes.

This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a delicious twist on classic flavors that everyone will love.”

Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole

Ingredients:

3 cups of cooked and shredded chicken

1 can cream of chicken soup

1 cup cooked, chopped bacon

1 pkg Ranch dressing mix

16 ounces sour cream

3 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded

2 pound bag of frozen tater tots

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350*

Lightly spray a 9 x 13 baking dish, with non stick spray

In a large bowl mix together the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, chopped bacon, ranch seasoning mix and shredded cheese

Stir to combine really well

Toss in the cut up chicken and stir to combine

Fold in the frozen tater tots

Spoon into the prepared pan

Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until bubbly

Enjoy!

Notes:

Chicken: Use cooked and shredded chicken for convenience and quicker cooking time in the casserole.

Cream of Chicken Soup: Adds creaminess and flavor to the dish, blending well with the other ingredients.

Bacon: Cooked and chopped bacon adds a savory, crispy texture to complement the creamy elements.

Ranch Dressing Mix: Provides the classic ranch flavor profile, enhancing the overall taste of the casserole.

Sour Cream: Contributes to the creamy texture and helps bind the ingredients together.

Cheddar Cheese: Shredded Cheddar cheese adds richness and melts to create a gooey, cheesy layer throughout the casserole.

Tater Tots: Use frozen tater tots as a base and topping, providing a crispy exterior and soft interior when baked.

Assembly: Mix the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, bacon, ranch seasoning, and cheese thoroughly before adding chicken and tater tots. Ensure even distribution of ingredients for balanced flavors.

Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake the casserole uncovered until bubbly and golden brown on top, typically 40 to 45 minutes. This ensures all ingredients are heated through and the cheese is fully melted.

Serving: Serve hot straight from the oven, allowing the casserole to cool slightly before enjoying. It pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 8 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with other cooked and shredded meats such as turkey, ham, or even ground beef.

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

It’s recommended to use cooked and shredded chicken in this recipe. If you have frozen chicken, you’ll need to cook it first before shredding it and adding it to the casserole.

Can I use homemade ranch dressing mix instead of the packaged one?

Absolutely! If you have a homemade ranch dressing mix recipe or prefer to use a different brand, feel free to substitute it in the recipe.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can customize the recipe by using a different type of cheese that you prefer or have on hand. Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses can work well in this casserole.

Can I use low-fat or reduced-fat ingredients to make it healthier?

Yes, you can choose low-fat or reduced-fat options for ingredients like sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and cheese to make a lighter version of the casserole.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as the dish may take longer to cook if it’s cold from the fridge.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze any leftover casserole. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer individual portions or the entire dish to an airtight container or freezer-safe bags.

Thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Can I substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt?

Yes, you can substitute sour cream with an equal amount of Greek yogurt if you prefer a healthier or tangier option. It should still provide a creamy texture and flavor to the casserole.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Absolutely! If you want to incorporate vegetables into the casserole, you can add chopped bell peppers, onions, or even frozen mixed vegetables.

Just make sure to sauté or cook the vegetables before adding them to the casserole to ensure they are tender and cooked through.