Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food casserole, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is it! Packed with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and golden tater tots, all coated in a creamy ranch-flavored sauce, this dish is easy, cheesy, and completely irresistible. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or a cozy weekend meal, it’s a guaranteed family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

• Super Easy to Make – Just mix, layer, and bake! No complicated steps.
• Loaded with Flavor – Creamy ranch sauce, crispy bacon, and melty cheese make every bite delicious.
• Kid & Crowd-Friendly – A hearty, comforting meal that everyone will love.

Ingredient Notes

• Chicken – Use cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works great!) or diced, cooked chicken breasts.
• Tater Tots – The crispy, golden topping that makes this casserole irresistible!
• Bacon – Adds a smoky, salty crunch. You can use store-bought bacon bits or freshly cooked bacon.
• Cheese – A mix of cheddar and mozzarella gives the perfect melt.
• Cream of Chicken Soup – Creates the creamy base. You can also use cream of mushroom or cream of celery.
• Ranch Dressing Mix – The secret ingredient for that bold, tangy flavor! Use store-bought packets or homemade ranch seasoning.
• Milk – Helps thin out the sauce for the perfect creamy texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Make the Creamy Ranch Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup, ½ cup milk, and 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix until smooth.

3. Add the Chicken & Bacon

Stir in 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken and 1 cup cooked, crumbled bacon into the creamy mixture.

4. Assemble the Casserole

• Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the baking dish.
• Sprinkle 1½ cups shredded cheese over the top.
• Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.

5. Bake Until Golden

Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the tater tots are crispy and golden brown.

6. Add Extra Cheese & Bacon

Remove from the oven, sprinkle ½ cup more cheese and extra bacon bits on top, and bake for 5 more minutes until melted.

7. Garnish & Serve

Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes, then top with chopped green onions or a drizzle of ranch dressing.

Expert Tips for the Best Casserole

• Use Rotisserie Chicken – It saves time and adds extra flavor.
• Crisp the Bacon First – Fry the bacon until crispy for the best texture.
• Bake Until Crispy – Don’t rush! Let the tater tots get golden and crunchy.

Serving Suggestions

• Fresh Side Salad – A crisp Caesar or ranch salad balances the richness.
• Steamed Veggies – Serve with broccoli, green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts.
• Dipping Sauces – Try with extra ranch dressing, sour cream, or BBQ sauce.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or air fryer for 5-7 minutes to keep the tater tots crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
Yes! Dice and roast potatoes until crispy before layering.

What’s a good substitute for ranch seasoning?
Mix ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon dried dill, and salt & pepper.

Can I add veggies to this casserole?
Absolutely! Try adding peas, corn, or chopped spinach for extra nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort meal, packed with creamy, cheesy, and crispy goodness. Perfect for any night of the week, it’s easy to make and even easier to love! Give it a try and let me know how it turns out!

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