Okay, picture this: Is it Is it a Friday night, everyone is tired, and you’re staring into the fridge wondering how to avoid eating. I’m ordering another pizza. When is the first time that we haveChicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole.I am a super hero. I love her Is it a comfort food mashup? Is it easier to make lasagna? My grandma used to make these amazing cheesy potato casseroles, and this recipe is my modern, gluten free version. What’s a family classic with an innovative twist? Is it so good that it is almost sinful?
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What Is Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole?
What exactly is a chicken bacon ranch Tater Tot Casserole? Imagine all your favorite comfort foods piled into one glorious dish. We’re talking crispy tater tots (the star of the show, obviously! ), juicy cooked chicken, crispy bacon bits, and a creamy, dreamy ranch sauce, all baked to bubbly. What is essentially a baked potato in casserole form? What is the name of a company? What is that comforting casserole we all crave? Is this a crowd pleaser even for picky eaters?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What is the recipe for Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole? First off, the flavor is insane. What is the perfect combination of smoky bacon, creamy ranch and savory chicken? Is it the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes and savor every single bite? Is it really that easy to make? What are some of the best ingredients to make a quick dinner that you already have in your pantry? What is a lifesaver on those busy weeknights when you just can’t be bothered to spend hours in bed? What I love about this is how budget friendly it is. Can you use leftover chicken? ), and the other ingredients are relatively inexpensive. What is the best way to feed a family without breaking the bank? Is there any way to customize a website? Add veggies like broccoli or corn for extra nutrients, or kick up the heat with some jalapeos. Is it hard to mess this one up? What are some easy comfort food recipes? If you love a movie like this, then you’re absolutely going to adore it. What are some of the best tater tot casserole recipes? Is it a definite winner in my book?
How do you make a Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole?
Quick Overview
What are some of the best recipes for Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole? What are some good ways to toss together cooked chicken, crispy bacon, cheese, and a creamy ranch sauce? Then, you’ll layer it all in a baking dish, top with generous amount of tater tots, and bake until golden brown. Golden brown and bubbly. What happens in the oven where all the flavors meld together into a cheesy, comforting dish? Is it easier than you think to make a comfort food?
Ingredients
For the Main Casserole: For a
* 1 (30-ounce) bag frozen tater tots: Don’t skimp on the good stuff! I prefer Ore-Ida, but any brand will work. * 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: 1 cup cooked rice. What are some of the best leftover rotisserie chicken recipes? Can you use grilled or baked chicken? What are some good ways to cook bacon? I usually bake mine for easy cleanup, but feel free to fry it up if you prefer. * 1 (1-ounce) packet ranch dressing mix: Adds that signature ranch flavor. What is the base of our creamy sauce? * 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds a tang to the sauce. I like Greek yogurt, and it is a healthy twist. Is it bad for your health? * 1 cup cheddar cheese: Feel free to use your favorite cheese blend. How do you make a Monterey Jack or Colby Jack?
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a lot easier. I always use a little cooking spray, but you could also use butter or oil. Make sure the oven is fully preheated before you put the casserole in – this ensures even baking.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, ranch dressing mix, condensed cream of tartar and cayenne pepper. Set aside. Chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well until everything is evenly coated. What is the heart of a casserole? Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasoning – you might want to add a little salt and pepper.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
How do you spread the chicken and bacon mixture in a baking dish? Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top of the mixture. Where does magic happen? Make sure the tater tots are close together so you get a nice crispy topping. I sometimes sprinkle cheese on top of tater tots for extra cheesiness!
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the filling is firm. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to prevent the tater tots from burning. If they start to get brown, you can tent the dish with foil. The casserole is done when the filling is heated through and bubbly, and the tater tots are done. Is it crispy?
Step 5: Cool Slightly & Serve
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly and prevents it from being too runny. Slice and serve hot. Garnish with extra shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, or a sprinkle of chopped chives, if desired. Is it good to garnish a tomato? Why or why not?
What is the best way to serve it?
What is a complete meal on its own? What are some good ideas to round it out.What is a quick weeknight dinner?A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette adds an interesting contrast to the richness of the salad. What are some great ways to add veggies to your diet?For a Game Day Feast:Serve it alongside other game day favorites like wings, sliders, and chips and dip. What are some of the best casseroles you have ever had?For a Comfort Food Extravaganza: What are some ofPair it with other comfort food classics like mac and cheese, cornbread, or mashed potatoes. Is it possible to go into a food coma after eating something? My family loves this with a dollop of sour cream and some chopped green onions. Is it good with a side of coleslaw or cucumber salad? What is the best casserole you have ever made?
How do I make a Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole?
What are some of the best ways to make chicken bacon taters? What are some of my top tips?Chicken Choice: What areWhat are some ways to save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken? What is the difference between grilled and baked chicken? Just make sure it’s seasoned well for maximum flavor. I’ve even used canned chicken in a pinch, and it still turns out great!Bacon Perfection:What is the best way to make crispy bacon? I like baking my bacon in the oven because it’s less messy and easier to clean up. How do you cook a potato? Make sure it’s nice and crispy before crumbling it into the casserole.What is cheese, pleaseWhat are the best cheeses to try? What are some good alternatives to Cheddar? You can also use a blend of cheeses for heightened flavor.Ranch It Up:If you don’t have ranch dressing on hand, you can substitute it with a combination of dried and powdered sugar. dill, garlic powder, onion powder and parsley. Just adjust the amount to taste.Tater Tot Tips:Make sure the tater tots are arranged in a single layer on top of the casserole. How do I make them crispy in the oven? I also like to lightly spray them with cooking spray before baking for extra crispiness.Customize It:Don’t be afraid to add your own personal touch to this casserole. What are some good additions to a salad? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped green onions for some heat.
What are the Storing and Reheating Tips?
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is great for meal prepping or making ahead of time. How do you store and reheat a chicken?Refrigerator Storage: WhatLet the casserole cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring it to a cooling rack. How do you store an airtight Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.How do I useFor longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then a layer of foil, or transfer it to freezer-safe container. Can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.Reheating InstructionsTo reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Can you reheat individual portions in the microwave?Tater Tot Revival: If the tater tots have lost their crispiness after reheating, you can broil them for a few minutes to crisp them up. Just keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Honestly, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is more than just a recipe – it’s a hug in a dish. It’s the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights, game day gatherings, or any time you need a little something to brighten your day. It’s incredibly easy to make, customizable to your liking, and always a crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking for more easy and delicious casserole recipes, be sure to check out my recipes for cheesy broccoli rice casserole or even a classic tuna noodle casserole. I’m absolutely positive they’ll also become family favorites. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Let me know in the comments below if you make any variations or additions – I’m always looking for new ideas! Happy cooking!
Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground chicken cooked and drained
- 8 oz cooked bacon crumbled
- 2 cups tater tots
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing.
- Spread half of the tater tots in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Top with the chicken mixture and remaining tater tots.
- Sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through.
