The Ultimate Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Introduction

If you’re a fan of comfort food, then this Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is going to be your new favorite dinner. This dish combines the crispy texture of tater tots with the creamy, cheesy goodness of ranch-seasoned chicken and bacon. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or a potluck favorite, this casserole is guaranteed to please everyone at the table.

The tater tot casserole has a long-standing tradition in American cuisine. Originating from Midwestern casseroles, it has evolved into a dish that can be customized in numerous ways. The best part? It’s easy to make, requires minimal effort, and is packed with delicious flavors.

For the best ranch seasoning blends and high-quality cheese selections, you might want to check out this guide on seasoning blends and this cheese pairing resource. These will help you enhance the flavor profile of your casserole.

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Ingredients

Before diving into the steps, make sure you have all the ingredients ready:

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
• 1 ½ cups cooked bacon (crumbled)
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or 2 tbsp homemade)
• 1 can cream of chicken soup (or homemade alternative)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Colby Jack recommended)
• 1 bag frozen tater tots
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Chopped green onions (for garnish)

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Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.

2. Mix the Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, bacon crumbles, ranch seasoning, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper.
• Add in 1 cup of shredded cheese and stir until evenly mixed.

3. Assemble the Casserole

• Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the prepared casserole dish.
• Arrange the tater tots on top in a single layer.
• Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese over the top.

4. Bake to Perfection

• Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
• Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
• Garnish with green onions before serving.

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Variations and Substitutions

Looking to tweak the recipe to your liking? Here are some delicious variations:

• Meat Alternatives: Swap chicken with ground turkey, ham, or even vegetarian crumbles.
• Different Cheeses: Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or smoked gouda for a different flavor twist.
• Adding Vegetables: Mix in broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Lighter Version: Use low-fat cheese, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and reduced-sodium soup.

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Serving Suggestions

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole pairs well with:

• A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Steamed broccoli or green beans.
• A side of garlic bread for an extra crunchy element.

For expert pairing tips on complementary dishes, visit this food pairing resource.

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Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fats: 22g
• Sodium: 750mg (can be reduced with low-sodium alternatives)

To make the dish healthier, try substituting with baked sweet potato tots or using a Greek yogurt-based ranch dressing.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the casserole (before or after baking) for up to 3 months.
• Reheating:
  • Oven: Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat individual portions for 2 minutes on high.

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FAQs About Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen tater tots?

Absolutely! Just slice and pre-bake fresh potatoes until slightly crispy before assembling.

3. Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

Yes! Use dairy-free cheese, coconut milk instead of sour cream, and a dairy-free ranch seasoning blend.

4. What’s the best way to get a crispy top?

For extra crispiness, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes after baking.

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Final Thoughts

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort meal that brings together savory flavors in a single dish. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s an easy, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try, and don’t forget to experiment with different variations to make it your own!

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