Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot

This comforting chicken bacon ranch tater tot casserole is my answer when anyone asks for something filling that the whole family will love It layers tender chicken crispy bacon gooey cheese and golden tater tots with a rich ranch cream sauce making an easy weeknight hit or a bringalong for potlucks

I put this together on a weekend when my pantry felt bare and it became an instant favorite We now make it for movie nights or any time comfort is on the menu

Ingredients

• Frozen tater tots: make this dish extra crispy right out of the oven Look for a brand with the fewest additives
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: provide lean protein Cut them small for even cooking and easier eating
• Mexican blend cheese: adds creaminess and flavor You can swap in cheddar or Colby Jack if you prefer
• Bacon: gives salty savory crunch Use thick cut bacon for bolder taste
• Milk and heavy whipping cream: create a lush sauce Whole milk works best for creaminess
• Ranch seasoning packet: delivers tangy herby flavor Check for one with no MSG if desired
• Salt and pepper: let you control the final seasoning Taste as you go for perfect balance

Step by Step Instructions

Prep and Preheat:

Set your oven to 350 degrees so it reaches temperature by the time you assemble the casserole

Cook the Bacon:

Fry bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it is crisp and browned Lay on paper towels to drain and cool This adds both crunch and flavor throughout the dish

Sear the Chicken:

Leaving a spoonful of bacon grease in the skillet add chicken pieces and cook over medium high heat Stir occasionally and cook until the chicken is golden and no pink remains inside Season with salt and pepper at the end for best taste

Layer Tater Tots:

Line the bottom of a nine by thirteen inch casserole dish with a single layer of frozen tater tots to form a sturdy base

Add Chicken Layer:

Scatter cooked chicken evenly over the layer of tater tots Make sure each bite will have chicken

Mix and Pour the Sauce:

In a bowl whisk together milk heavy whipping cream and ranch seasoning You want this well combined for even flavor distribution Pour this mixture slowly over the chicken and tater tots covering each layer

Sprinkle on the Cheese:

Evenly spread all of the cheese over the casserole as your next layer This helps everything melt together into a gooey center

Add Bacon on Top:

Crumble cooled bacon into small pieces and sprinkle them generously over the cheese for the final savory note

Bake Until Golden:

Place the assembled dish in your preheated oven and bake for thirty to forty five minutes Watch for the top to brown the sauce to thicken and the cheese to become melty and irresistible

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My favorite part is always the golden crunchy tater tots peeking out from under the cheesy topping Last Thanksgiving this was the only dish with no leftovers because even the picky eaters went back for seconds

Storage Tips

Cool leftovers completely before covering with foil or an airtight lid This casserole keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees to restore crispiness or use the microwave for quick lunches

Ingredient Substitutions

Try using rotisserie chicken for an even faster assembly or swap turkey bacon if you are looking to lower the fat content You can use shredded cheddar mozzarella or a pepper jack for extra kick If you do not have heavy cream just add more milk but the sauce will be a bit lighter

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Serving Suggestions

Scoop generous portions onto plates and pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal It is also perfect with coleslaw or roasted broccoli for color and crunch

Cultural and Historical Context

Casseroles have long been a staple for American potlucks and busy nights By combining convenience foods like tater tots and ranch seasoning with fresh ingredients this recipe puts a modern spin on classic comfort

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of fresh chicken?

Yes, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works well and can save prep time. Simply shred or chop before layering.

→ What cheese works best in this casserole?

Mexican blend cheese melts smoothly and adds flavor, but cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack are delicious alternatives.

→ How can I make this dish ahead of time?

Assemble everything in the casserole dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving for best texture.

→ Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Choose gluten-free tater tots and confirm the ranch packet is gluten-free to easily adapt the dish.

→ What sides go well with this casserole?

Fresh salads, steamed vegetables, or simple sautéed greens pair well, balancing the casserole’s richness.

→ Is it possible to freeze leftovers?

Yes, portion leftovers into airtight containers and freeze. Reheat in the oven for best texture and flavor.