Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is an all-time family favorite made with chicken, bacon, cheese, and a delicious creamy ranch sauce that everyone will love!

You can’t go wrong with making this Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole for the family. It’s an easy recipe to throw together, especially on a busy night when you don’t have a lot of time to cook. The ingredients are simple and ones you probably already have in the house.

This recipe is also a great way to use up some leftover chicken if you’ve cooked too much the night before. It’s one of my family’s favorite dishes to eat, with usually no leftovers, and a mom’s favorite time-saving recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. It’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with flavors that everyone enjoys. The combination of crispy bacon and creamy ranch dressing makes it irresistible. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13 baking dish
• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Mixer (for shredding chicken)

Ingredients

• 6 slices of cooked bacon or you can use microwave bacon
• 4 cooked and shredded chicken breasts
• 32 oz. bag of 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

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
2. Cook chicken in a separate pan until done. Let chicken cool for a few minutes and shred with a mixer.
3. Using a small saucepan, melt butter on low heat, whisk in flour, and add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Whisk the milk into the saucepan mixture slowly, pouring a little bit at a time. Mix until you get a creamy consistency, then add in ranch dressing and mix.
5. Spray a 9×13 baking dish and add a layer of chicken, then sauce, then half of the cheese, then tater tots. Cook for 20 minutes uncovered.
6. Crumble cooked bacon while waiting for the casserole to cook and set aside.
7. Ensure the tater tots are a golden color and crispy, then top the casserole with the remaining cheese and crumbled bacon. Bake for another 5 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Take out of the oven and let cool for a few minutes, then enjoy!

Tips for Success

For the best flavor, use freshly cooked and crumbled bacon. If you’re short on time, microwave bacon works as well. Make sure the tater tots are well spread out and not overcrowded for optimal crispiness.

Additional Tips or Variations

Feel free to add some veggies like peas or broccoli for extra nutrition. You can also substitute the cheddar cheese with a Mexican blend for a different flavor profile.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This casserole is rich in protein from the chicken and cheese, and the addition of bacon provides a delightful crunch and flavor. It’s a hearty meal that will keep you satisfied.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack to suit your taste.

Conclusion

Now that you know how simple and delicious this Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is, it’s time to give it a try! I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so don’t forget to share your experience and any creative twists you’ve added. Happy cooking!