This irresistible casserole is a hearty, cheesy, and comforting dish perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners. With tender chicken, crispy bacon, creamy ranch sauce, and golden tater tots, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

  • 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
  • 4 cooked chicken breasts, shredded
  • 32 oz. frozen tater tots
  • ½ cup ranch dressing
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1½ cups shredded mild cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Bacon

If using raw bacon, cook in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels, then chop into small pieces.

Step 3: Make the Ranch Sauce

  1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  3. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens (about 3-4 minutes).
  4. Remove from heat and stir in the ranch dressing, along with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

  1. In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, chopped bacon, and ½ of the shredded cheddar cheese.
  2. Pour the ranch sauce over the mixture and stir until everything is well coated.

Step 5: Layer the Tater Tots

  1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Spread the frozen tater tots in an even layer across the bottom.
  3. Spoon the chicken and bacon mixture over the tater tots, spreading it evenly.

Step 6: Add Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining ¾ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

  1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
  2. Scoop generous portions onto plates and enjoy this comforting, flavor-packed dish.

Tips for Success

  • Make It Creamier: For extra creaminess, add ¼ cup sour cream or cream cheese to the ranch sauce.
  • Switch Up the Cheese: Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a fun twist.
  • Add Veggies: Mix in frozen peas, corn, or chopped broccoli for added nutrition.
  • Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using shredded rotisserie chicken.

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is a dish your family will request again and again. Serve it with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal. Don’t forget to save this recipe for your next cozy dinner! 💖