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Chicken bacon ranch tater tot casserole is the kind of cozy comfort food you crave after a long day. It is creamy savory loaded with crispy tots and packed with big flavors that make everyone at the table happy. I love how it uses up rotisserie chicken and comes together without a fuss
My family always requests this on movie nights and the kids are constantly scraping the dish clean. The crispy tater tots and cheesy chicken filling make each bite addictive
Ingredients
- Frozen potato tots: these are essential for that crispy top look for straight cut tots so they cover the casserole evenly
- Canned chicken soup: provides the creamy base choose a lower sodium variety for more control over salt
- Sour cream: adds tang and makes the filling rich use full fat for best texture
- Ranch dressing plus packet: delivers signature tangy flavor go for a quality bottled ranch and a recognizable dry mix like Hidden Valley
- Cracked black pepper: brings a mild bite freshly cracked for best results
- Granulated garlic: adds savory depth use granulated not powder for even seasoning
- Shredded rotisserie chicken: saves time and stays super tender pick chicken with lots of flavor and moisture
- Sharp Cheddar cheese: melts beautifully and gives strong cheesy flavor always grate your own for smoother melt
- Cooked and crumbled bacon: delivers smoky crunch cook until just crisp and drain well to avoid soggy spots in the casserole
- Sliced scallions: provide a pop of color and fresh taste go for crisp and bright green pieces
Step by Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prep:
- Get your oven hot at 450 degrees and lightly spray a 9 by 13 inch baking dish so nothing sticks later
- Crisp the Tater Tots:
- Grab a baking sheet and spread all the frozen potato tots out in one layer. Bake for about thirty five minutes until they are extra golden and super crisp This step locks in their crunch so they stay tasty in the casserole
- Mix the Creamy Filling:
- In a big bowl whisk together the cream of chicken soup sour cream ranch dressing dry ranch mix black pepper and granulated garlic. Whisk until no lumps remain for smoothness
- Combine Chicken and Cheese:
- Fold in all the shredded chicken Cheddar cheese and most of the bacon except for about a quarter cup. Stir everything until the chicken and bacon are well coated in the creamy mixture
- Fill the Dish and Layer Tots:
- Spoon the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread out so it is nice and even. Gently lay your crispy tater tots on top so they cover every bit
- Bake It All Together:
- Drop the oven to 375 degrees and bake uncovered for another thirty to thirty five minutes. Look for hot bubbling edges before pulling it out
- Finish and Garnish:
- Right before serving scatter the rest of that crispy bacon over the casserole and sprinkle with scallions. That fresh green finish makes it pop
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My favorite part is the layer of Cheddar that gets all melty and pulls everything together The kids still talk about the first time I made this for a birthday sleepover and how everyone went back for seconds
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. This casserole also freezes beautifully Just let it cool first then wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months. Reheat covered in the oven to restore the crispy topping
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap out rotisserie chicken for leftover turkey or shredded pork. You can use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream or try Monterey Jack cheese for a milder flavor. Look for turkey bacon if you want a lighter protein option
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Serving Suggestions
I love serving this casserole with a simple tossed salad or steamed broccoli to balance the richness. It is also perfect for casual gatherings right from the baking dish. For a brunch twist add a fried egg on top and it turns into a hearty breakfast
Cultural and Historical Context
Tater tot casseroles originated from Midwest potluck traditions where comfort food reigns. This version celebrates the modern love affair with ranch and bacon bringing a familiar American twist that kids and adults all recognize. It is the perfect blend of nostalgic flavors and convenience
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use freshly cooked chicken instead of rotisserie?
Absolutely! Freshly cooked chicken breast or thighs can be shredded and substituted for rotisserie chicken as desired.
- → How can I make the top extra crispy?
Pre-baking the potato tots until golden ensures they retain a crunchy texture even after baking with the filling.
- → Is it possible to substitute regular bacon for turkey bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon or any preferred bacon substitute can be used based on your dietary preferences.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Prepare the filling in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Add the potato tots and bake just before serving for best texture.
- → What sides pair well with this meal?
A fresh green salad or simple steamed vegetables are great choices to balance the richness of this dish.