Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic

Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Combining crispy tater tots, savory chicken, smoky bacon, and creamy ranch sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and gatherings. It’s easy to prepare and packed with flavors that everyone loves. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious recipe and explore how to make it step-by-step.

Ingredients

To make this mouth-watering Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:

• 32 oz. bag of frozen tater tots: These form the crispy top layer of the casserole.
• 6-8 pieces of bacon: Bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• 2-4 cooked and shredded chicken: Use cooked chicken for convenience, whether it’s leftover, rotisserie, or freshly cooked.
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing: Ranch dressing adds a creamy, tangy flavor to the sauce.
• 1 cup milk: Milk helps create a smooth, creamy sauce.
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter: Butter is the base for the roux, which thickens the sauce.
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Flour combines with butter to form the roux.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese: Cheese adds a rich, creamy texture and flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the sauce and chicken.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven ensures that the tater tots become crispy and golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Bacon

Cook your chicken and bacon to your liking. You can bake, grill, or sauté the chicken, then shred it once cooked. For the bacon, fry it until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. Set both the chicken and bacon aside.

Step 3: Make the Butter Ranch Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once fully melted, add the flour and whisk continuously to form a roux. This should take about 1-2 minutes. Slowly add the milk while continuing to whisk, ensuring a smooth mixture. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, add the ranch dressing and whisk for another minute. Turn off the heat but leave the pot on the burner to keep the sauce warm.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Spread the shredded chicken evenly across the bottom of the dish. Pour the butter ranch sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s well distributed. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the sauce. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. This initial baking time allows the tater tots to begin crisping up and the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Bacon

After 20 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots, then add the crumbled bacon on top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the tater tots are golden brown.

Step 7: Serve

Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve. Dish out portions and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

Using Different Meats

While this recipe calls for chicken, you can easily substitute it with turkey, ham, or even ground beef. Each variation brings a unique flavor profile to the casserole.

Adding Vegetables

For added nutrition and flavor, consider adding vegetables to your casserole. Chopped bell peppers, broccoli florets, or peas can be mixed in with the chicken layer before adding the sauce.

Cheese Options

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. A combination of cheddar and mozzarella can add extra creaminess, while pepper jack can introduce a bit of spice.

Ranch Dressing Variations

If you’re a fan of different ranch flavors, try using a spicy ranch or an herb-infused ranch dressing for a twist on the classic recipe.

Make-Ahead Tips

This casserole can be assembled a day in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or for busy days when you want to have dinner ready to go.

Leftovers and Storage

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Conclusion

Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and ease of preparation. With its crispy tater tots, creamy ranch sauce, and savory chicken and bacon, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner, a dish to bring to a potluck, or a comforting meal for a special occasion, this casserole delivers on all fronts. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures in this classic comfort food dish. Bon appétit!