When it comes to hearty, family-friendly meals that are easy to make and delicious to eat, few dishes can compete with the Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole. This creamy, cheesy casserole is packed with savory chicken, crispy bacon, and golden tater tots, all brought together with a rich, ranch-flavored sauce. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or preparing a make-ahead meal for a busy weeknight, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this casserole beginner-friendly.
- Family Favorite: The irresistible combination of chicken, bacon, ranch, and cheese appeals to kids and adults alike.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble the dish ahead of time and bake when needed.
- Customizable: Swap out ingredients to suit your family’s tastes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this mouthwatering casserole, gather the following ingredients:
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 4 cooked, shredded chicken breasts
- 32 oz. 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 and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole cooks evenly and the cheese melts to perfection.
2. Cook and Chop the Bacon
If you haven’t cooked the bacon yet, do so until crispy. Drain the excess grease on paper towels, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
3. Make the Ranch Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and mix in the ranch dressing, along with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the Main Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped bacon, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Pour the prepared ranch sauce over the mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
5. Layer the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the frozen tater tots evenly on the bottom. Spoon the chicken mixture on top, spreading it out to cover the tots.
6. Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, with the tater tots golden brown.
8. Cool and Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
Tips for Success
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using a store-bought rotisserie chicken.
- Crispy Bacon Tip: Bake bacon in the oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes for evenly cooked, crispy strips.
- Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a creamier texture, add an extra 1/4 cup of milk.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Veggie Boost: Stir in a cup of frozen peas or broccoli.
- Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, Colby, or a cheese blend.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Freezing: Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of garlic bread. It also pairs well with a light soup for a comforting meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use turkey bacon? Yes, turkey bacon is a leaner alternative that works well in this dish.
2. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots? Certainly! Dice and par-cook fresh potatoes before layering them in the casserole.
3. Is there a way to make this dish healthier? Use reduced-fat cheese, turkey bacon, and light ranch dressing for a lighter version.
The Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy ranch sauce, tender chicken, crispy bacon, and crunchy tater tots, it’s a guaranteed favorite. Try it for dinner this week and enjoy the delicious comfort of homemade goodness.
