The Best Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole Recipe Ever

When life gets hectic, chicken bacon ranch tater tot casserole swoops in like a delicious superhero to save dinner.

Comfort meals deserve serious attention from busy home cooks seeking maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Crispy golden tater tots create a magical foundation for this crowd-pleasing dish that promises pure satisfaction.

Layers of savory chicken, smoky bacon, and creamy ranch blend seamlessly into a one-pan wonder.

Weeknight dinners demand something special, and this casserole delivers excitement to the table without complicated techniques.

Cheese melts into every delectable crevice, promising a meal you’ll want to devour immediately.

Buckle up for a culinary adventure that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary feast.

How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank the oven to 350°F and grab a 13×9-inch glass baking dish. Give it a quick spray with cooking oil to keep things from sticking.

Step 2: Sizzle the Onions

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium flame. Toss in chopped onions and cook until they’re soft and golden, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Mix the Magic

• Sautéed onions
• Cream of chicken soup
• Sour cream
• Milk
• Cheese blend
• Ranch dressing mix
• Black pepper

Stir everything together until smooth, then fold in the shredded chicken.

Step 4: Create the First Tater Layer

Spread half the frozen Tater Tots across the bottom of the baking dish in an even blanket.

Step 5: Add the Chicken Goodness

Spoon the chicken mixture over the Tater Tots, covering them completely. Sprinkle chopped bacon on top for an extra flavor punch.

Step 6: Season the Top Tater Tots

Dump the remaining Tater Tots into a large zip-lock bag. Add the remaining ranch mix and shake until the tots are completely coated.

Arrange these seasoned tots on top of the casserole.

Step 7: First Bake

Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 40 minutes until everything starts to bubble and look delicious.

Step 8: Cheese and Bacon Finale

Sprinkle the remaining cheese and bacon over the top. Bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts and the tots turn golden brown.

Step 9: Dress and Serve

Pull the casserole out of the oven. Scatter chopped tomatoes and green onions over the top.

Serve piping hot and watch everyone dig in!

Tips for Perfect Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole

• Swap frozen tater tots with sweet potato tots for a nutritious twist and unique flavor profile.
• Ensure chicken is thoroughly cooked and shredded to prevent any raw meat texture in the casserole.
• Use low-fat dairy products and reduced-sodium ranch mix to create a lighter, healthier version of the dish.
• Add extra crunch by toasting breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before the final cheese layer.
• Prepare casserole ahead of time and refrigerate, allowing flavors to meld together before baking for enhanced taste.

Variations on Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole

• Vegetarian Potato Delight: Replace chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternative, using vegetable cream soup and adding extra mushrooms for protein and texture.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Bake: Swap Tater Tots with roasted cauliflower florets, maintaining ranch and bacon flavors while reducing carbohydrate content for keto dieters.
• Gluten-Free Ranch Casserole: Use gluten-free condensed soup, certified gluten-free ranch mix, and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free certified for individuals with wheat sensitivities.
• Spicy Southwest Version: Incorporate diced green chiles, pepper jack cheese, and add cayenne pepper to create a zesty, southwestern-inspired alternative with a kick of heat.

Pairing Suggestions for Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole

• Toss mixed greens with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and light vinaigrette to balance the rich, heavy casserole with fresh, zesty notes.
• Select a crisp lager or wheat beer to cut through the creamy texture and complement the savory bacon and ranch flavors, refreshing the palate between bites.
• Prepare a vinegar-based coleslaw with a hint of pepper to provide a crunchy, acidic contrast against the smooth, cheesy casserole.
• Mix sparkling water with cucumber slices and a splash of lime to create a light, refreshing drink that cleanses the palate and reduces the dish's richness.

Storage Tips for Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days, keeping the casserole's texture and flavor intact.
• Wrap the casserole securely in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label the container with the date to track freshness.
• Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring midway to ensure even warming. Add a splash of milk to prevent dryness.

FAQs

• What are the key ingredients that make this casserole delicious?

The combination of chicken, bacon, ranch seasoning, and Tater Tots creates a perfect blend of savory flavors. The cheese, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup add richness and creaminess to the dish.

• Can I use different types of meat in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute shredded chicken with cooked ground beef, turkey, or even pulled pork. The recipe is versatile and can accommodate different protein preferences.

• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to eat, simply bake it in the preheated oven. It’s an excellent option for busy weeknights or make-ahead meals.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole That Brings Comfort

• Celebrate Comfort Food Magic: Dive into a hearty casserole that transforms simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing masterpiece, blending chicken, bacon, and ranch in a soul-warming dish.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients or add personal twists like extra veggies or different meats to make this recipe uniquely yours without complicated cooking techniques.
• Crowd-Pleasing Potential: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings where everyone craves a satisfying and indulgent meal that brings smiles to the table.
• Minimal Prep, Maximum Flavor: Layer ingredients quickly and let the oven do the heavy lifting, creating a delicious meal with minimal hands-on cooking time and maximum taste impact.

Ingredients for Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole

• Chicken: Shredded and tender meat that serves as the primary protein in the casserole.
• Bacon: Crispy and flavorful meat that adds a smoky and salty dimension to the dish.

• Sour Cream, Milk, Cheese Blend: Creamy ingredients that contribute richness and smooth texture to the casserole.
• Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup: Creates a thick and savory base for the mixture.

• Ranch Dressing Mix: Provides a tangy and herbal flavor profile to the entire dish.
• Black Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth to the overall taste.

• Onions: Adds a sweet and aromatic base to the casserole.
• Tomatoes, Green Onions: Fresh garnishes that provide color and brightness.

• Tater Tots: Crispy potato bites that form the foundation and topping of the casserole.

• Vegetable Oil: Used for sautéing onions and preventing sticking.
• Cooking Spray: Ensures the baking dish is non-stick for easy serving.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

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4.8 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Hearty chicken bacon ranch tater tot casserole brings comfort and excitement to family dinner tables. Creamy ranch sauce, crispy bacon, and golden tater tots combine for a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 bag (32 oz/907 g) frozen Ore-Ida™ Tater Tots™
• 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 2 cups shredded Colby-Monterey Jack cheese blend (8 oz/227 g)
• 1 can (10.5 oz/298 g) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup chopped bacon (cooked)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
• 1 package (1 oz/28 g) ranch dressing and seasoning mix
• 1 tsp vegetable oil
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven at 350°F and lightly grease a 13×9-inch glass baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions for 3-5 minutes until soft and translucent, stirring periodically.
3. Create the base mixture by combining sautéed onions, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, one cup of cheese blend, ranch dressing mix, and black pepper in a medium mixing bowl. Thoroughly mix the ingredients.
4. Fold shredded chicken into the mixture until evenly distributed.
5. Arrange the first half of frozen Tater Tots in a single layer across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
6. Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the Tater Tots, ensuring complete coverage. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of chopped bacon over this layer.
7. Place remaining Tater Tots in a large resealable bag with additional ranch dressing mix. Shake to coat tots evenly.
8. Top the casserole with the seasoned Tater Tots in a uniform layer.
9. Bake for 40 minutes in the preheated oven.
10. Sprinkle remaining cheese and bacon over the casserole.
11. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese melts and Tater Tots turn golden brown.
12. Remove from oven and immediately garnish with chopped tomatoes and sliced green onions.
13. Serve piping hot directly from the baking dish.

Notes

• Swap frozen tater tots with cauliflower or sweet potato tots for a healthier alternative that reduces carbohydrate intake and adds nutritional value.
• Use low-fat dairy products like reduced-fat sour cream and cheese to create a lighter version of the casserole without compromising taste.
• Make the dish gluten-free by selecting gluten-free cream of chicken soup and verifying all ingredient labels to ensure no hidden gluten sources.
• Prep ahead by assembling the casserole earlier in the day and refrigerating, then bake when ready to serve for convenient meal planning.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 405 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 710 mg
• Fat: 27 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 21 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 26 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg