Description

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting, savory dish featuring shredded chicken mixed with creamy ranch dressing, sour cream, and cheese. Topped with crispy bacon and golden baked tater tots, it’s perfect for a hearty family dinner or casual get-together. The casserole comes together quickly and bakes to cheesy, crispy perfection, garnished with fresh green onions or chives.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Mixture

3 cups shredded cooked chicken
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled

Topping

1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots

Garnish

2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives

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Instructions

Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.
Mix chicken filling: In a large bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken, ranch dressing, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until evenly mixed.
Assemble base layer: Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Then sprinkle the crumbled cooked bacon evenly over the top.
Add tater tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the bacon and chicken mixture. This will create a crispy topping once baked.
Bake initial layer: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
Add cheese topping: Remove the casserole from the oven, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the tater tots, and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and serve: Once baked, sprinkle chopped green onions or chives on top for a fresh burst of flavor. Serve the casserole warm for the best taste.

Notes

Use fully cooked chicken to save time – rotisserie chicken works well.
For extra crispiness, you can broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes after the cheese melts, but watch closely to avoid burning.
Feel free to swap cheddar with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor.
If preferred, substitute turkey bacon or omit bacon for a lighter version.
Make ahead: Assemble the casserole but don’t bake; cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.