There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole straight from the oven. This Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Bake is the ultimate dish for busy weeknights, potlucks, or whenever you need a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Combining the savory flavors of crispy bacon, tender chicken, creamy ranch sauce, and golden tater tots, this dish is a family favorite that requires simple ingredients and easy prep.
If you love a balance of creamy and crispy textures in every bite, this recipe is for you. The base is a rich mixture of shredded chicken, tangy sour cream, and a creamy ranch-seasoned sauce. This is topped with a golden, crispy layer of tater tots, melted cheese, and crunchy bacon bits to bring everything together. Whether served as a hearty dinner or a side for a casual get-together, this casserole will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Servings: 5
Ingredients:
- 4 slices cooked and crumbled bacon
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup milk
- 5 cups frozen tater tots
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
- 10.5 oz condensed cream of chicken soup
- 2 tbsp dry ranch seasoning
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions (for garnish)
- 1 cup sour cream
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, ranch seasoning, and 1 cup of shredded cheese.
- Evenly spread the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle half of the crumbled bacon over the top.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the mixture.
- Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, top with the remaining cheese, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Sprinkle the remaining bacon and sliced green onions on top before serving.
Variation Ideas:
- Meat Swap: Try using turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken for a different flavor profile.
- Veggie Boost: Add chopped broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach to increase the nutrient content.
- Cheese Choices: Switch up the cheese by using sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a spicy pepper jack for extra zing.
Nutritional & Dietary Information:
This casserole is high in protein and rich in comforting flavors, making it a great meal for satisfying cravings. However, it is also moderately high in fat and sodium due to the cheese, bacon, and ranch seasoning. For a lighter option, consider using reduced-fat sour cream, low-sodium soup, or turkey bacon instead of traditional bacon. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for added protein and a tangy twist.
Sharing and Commenting is Caring:
Love this recipe? Let us know how it turned out for you! Feel free to share your variations, cooking tips, or creative twists in the comments. If you enjoyed this casserole, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family. Good food brings people together, and we’d love to hear about your experience making this dish!