This Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—packed with tender chicken, crispy bacon, creamy ranch-flavored sauce, gooey cheese, and crunchy tater tots. It’s easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights, and always a crowd-pleaser!
The best part? You only need a handful of ingredients, and it bakes up golden and bubbly in no time!
Ingredients for Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole
For the Casserole:
- 3 cups (400g) cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- ¾ cup (180ml) ranch dressing
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 ½ cups (170g) shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup (120ml) milk
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
For Garnishing (Optional):
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- Extra shredded cheese
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Spoon or spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare the Casserole Mixture
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, shredded cheese, and milk. Stir until fully mixed.
2. Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle crumbled bacon over the top.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the mixture.
3. Bake Until Golden & Crispy
- Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Sprinkle extra cheese on top and bake for 5 more minutes, until melted.
4. Serve & Enjoy!
- Garnish with chopped green onions (if using).
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Enjoy warm as a main dish or side for any meal!
Expert Tips for the Best Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole
Use rotisserie chicken – A great time-saving shortcut for even more flavor.
Make it extra crispy – Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for ultra-crunchy tater tots.
Add veggies – Mix in broccoli, peas, or corn for added texture and flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping the milk – Helps create a creamy, smooth consistency.
Not spreading the tater tots evenly – Ensures even crispiness.
Overbaking the cheese – Add extra cheese at the end to keep it gooey and melty.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
- Serve with a side salad for a balanced meal.
- Drizzle with extra ranch dressing for more flavor.
- Pair with steamed vegetables or garlic bread.
How to Store & Make Ahead
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until warm.
- Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F for 5 minutes for crispy tater tots.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, but the tots may soften.
Freezing:
- Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Bake from frozen at 375°F for 50-55 minutes, or until heated through.
Make-Ahead Tip:
- Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Variations and Substitutions
- Make it spicy – Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Use different cheese – Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or Colby Jack.
- Swap the meat – Use ground beef, turkey, or shredded pork instead of chicken.
What to Serve with Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- A fresh garden salad
- Dinner rolls or garlic bread
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
Yes! Dice and roast potatoes until crispy before adding them to the casserole.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, then crisp up the tater tots in the oven or air fryer.
Can I use homemade ranch dressing?
Absolutely! Homemade ranch gives even more fresh flavor.
Conclusion
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you serve it for a family dinner, potluck, or meal prep, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd favorite!
Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to subscribe for more easy and delicious casserole recipes!
Calories Per Serving
Approximate Calories: 480 kcal per serving (based on 6 servings).
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Serves: 6
PrintChicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole – Creamy
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
-
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and packed with crispy bacon and ranch flavor! A simple and delicious comfort food recipe.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 3 cups (400g) cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- ¾ cup (180ml) ranch dressing
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 ½ cups (170g) shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup (120ml) milk
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
For Garnishing (Optional):
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- Extra shredded cheese
Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare the Casserole Mixture
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, shredded cheese, and milk. Stir until fully mixed.
2. Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle crumbled bacon over the top.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the mixture.
3. Bake Until Golden & Crispy
- Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Sprinkle extra cheese on top and bake for 5 more minutes, until melted.
4. Serve & Enjoy!
- Garnish with chopped green onions (if using).
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Enjoy warm as a main dish or side for any meal!
Notes
✔ Use rotisserie chicken – A great time-saving shortcut for even more flavor.
✔ Make it extra crispy – Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for ultra-crunchy tater tots.
✔ Add veggies – Mix in broccoli, peas, or corn for added texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 40
- Category: DINNER
- Cuisine: AMERICAN
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 480