Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole

Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This casserole combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, cheesy goodness, and the irresistible crunch of tater tots, all brought together with a creamy ranch sauce. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole, provide helpful cooking notes, and offer variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.

Ingredients

• 6 slices of cooked bacon or microwave bacon
• 4 cooked and shredded chicken breasts
• 32 oz. bag of 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 & pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Cook the Bacon:
   • If using raw bacon, cook it in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble. If using microwave bacon, cook according to package instructions and crumble.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Cook the chicken breasts using your preferred method (boiled, baked, or grilled). Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks.

Step 2: Make the Ranch Sauce

1. Melt the Butter:
   • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add Flour:
   • Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is bubbly and slightly golden.
3. Add Milk and Ranch Dressing:
   • Gradually whisk in the milk and ranch dressing until smooth. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Season:
   • Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, and the prepared ranch sauce. Mix until everything is well coated.
3. Layer the Casserole:
   • In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the frozen tater tots in an even layer. Top with the chicken and sauce mixture. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken layer. Add the remaining tater tots on top.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake:
   • Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are crispy and the casserole is heated through.
2. Add Cheese:
   • Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

1. Cool Slightly:
   • Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Serve:
   • Serve the Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole hot and enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish.

Cook Notes and Variations

Cook Notes:

• Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
• Bacon: Pre-cooked bacon saves time, but freshly cooked bacon will add a richer flavor.

Variations:

• Spicy Version:
  • Add 1-2 teaspoons of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ranch sauce for a spicy kick.
• Vegetable Addition:
  • Stir in 1 cup of steamed broccoli florets or peas to the chicken mixture for added nutrition and color.
• Different Cheeses:
  • Try using different cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if necessary.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Assemble it as directed, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

4. What can I serve with Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread.

5. Can I use different types of tater tots?

Yes, you can use any type of tater tots you prefer, such as sweet potato tots or seasoned tots, to add a different flavor.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is a hearty and flavorful comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy ranch sauce, tender chicken, crispy bacon, and cheesy tater tots, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is easy to follow and full of delicious flavors. Give this Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole a try and enjoy a comforting and delightful dish. Happy cooking!