This Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is a fun and yummy dish that everyone loves! It’s packed with chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing, all topped with golden tater tots.
Honestly, what’s not to love? It’s like a party on a plate! I always enjoy it with friends, and there are never any leftovers. Who could resist all that cheesy goodness?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken makes things easy. If you don’t have that, any cooked chicken works, including leftover grilled chicken or even turkey!
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese adds creaminess. Neufchâtel or even Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter version, though the taste may vary slightly.
Ranch Dressing: Homemade ranch dressing is an option if you’re feeling up to it. A mix of yogurt and herbs can also do the trick. Just be careful with the herbs’ ratio!
Cheddar and Mozzarella Cheeses: For a different flavor, try a blend of pepper jack for a kick or gouda for a smoky taste. You could also use a dairy-free cheese if needed.
Tater Tots: These crunchy gems are the star of this dish! If you can’t find tater tots, frozen hash browns or even homemade potato wedges could work in a pinch.
Bacon: Turkey bacon or pancetta can be great substitutes if you’re looking for a lighter option or want something with a different flavor. You could even skip it for a vegetarian dish!
What’s the Best Way to Ensure a Creamy and Flavorful Filling?
The key to a delicious filling is in the mixing. Combine the shredded chicken with softened cream cheese and ranch dressing well. This mixture acts as a creamy base that holds everything together.
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened. It blends much better when it’s at room temperature.
- Mix everything thoroughly, so every bite has that chicken, cheese, and ranch goodness.
- Don’t skimp on the seasoning. Taste the mixture before spreading it in your dish for the perfect flavor!
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 6 slices of cooked bacon, chopped
- 32 ounces frozen tater tots
- 3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 30-35 minutes to bake, for a total of approximately 45-50 minutes from start to finish. You’ll love how quickly it comes together and how fantastic it tastes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to get your casserole bubbly and golden brown.
2. Mix the Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, half of the cheddar cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the chopped bacon. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to your liking!
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Take your greased 9×13 inch casserole dish and spread the chicken mixture evenly across the bottom. Make sure it’s well-distributed. Next, arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the chicken mixture. This will create a crispy top!
4. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese over the tater tots, making it nice and cheesy. Who doesn’t love extra cheese?
5. Bake the Casserole:
Place your casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is all melty and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
6. Final Touches:
Once it’s done baking, take the casserole out of the oven and sprinkle the remaining chopped bacon and chopped green onions on top for a tasty garnish. This will add a nice crunch and a fresh flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Then dish it out while it’s hot and enjoy every delicious bite! Perfect for a family dinner or a friendly get-together!
## FAQ for Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole
Can I Use Raw Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken?
Yes, you can! Simply cook and shred the chicken first before mixing it with the other ingredients. Boil or bake the chicken for about 20-25 minutes until fully cooked, then let it cool before shredding.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or sour cream instead of cream cheese. Just make sure to mix it well to achieve a creamy consistency! If you are using Greek yogurt, the flavor will be slightly tangier.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken mixture and assemble the casserole in advance, then cover it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
