Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Casserole
A rich and comforting casserole that combines crispy tater tots, creamy ranch sauce, tender chicken, and savory bacon. Perfect for dinner, and sure to be a family favorite!
Ingredients:
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 4 cooked, shredded chicken breasts
- 32 oz frozen tater tots
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1½ cups shredded mild cheddar cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions:
1️⃣ Preheat Oven:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2️⃣ Cook Bacon:
If using raw bacon, cook it in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, then chop into small pieces. If using pre-cooked bacon, chop and set aside.
3️⃣ Make the Ranch Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Whisk in the flour to form a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens into a smooth sauce.
- Remove from heat and stir in the ranch dressing, salt, and pepper to taste.
4️⃣ Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cooked bacon (reserve some for garnish), and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Pour in the prepared ranch sauce and stir until well combined.
5️⃣ Layer the Tater Tots:
Spread the frozen tater tots evenly across the greased baking dish. Spoon the chicken mixture over the top.
6️⃣ Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole.
7️⃣ Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
8️⃣ Serve:
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with reserved bacon bits and extra ranch dressing if desired.
9️⃣ Enjoy:
Serve warm and enjoy this comforting, hearty dish!
30 Popular Questions & Answers About Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Casserole
- Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
Yes, you can use diced, cooked potatoes as a substitute. - What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Mild cheddar is great, but sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack can also be used. - Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. - Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze the assembled (but unbaked) casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. - Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Peas, broccoli, or spinach work well. Add them to the chicken mixture. - What’s a good substitute for ranch dressing?
You can use Caesar dressing or a homemade ranch dressing substitute. - Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, shredded or diced cooked turkey works as a perfect substitute. - Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour and ensure all other ingredients, like the ranch dressing, are gluten-free. - What can I use instead of bacon?
Try cooked pancetta, turkey bacon, or omit entirely for a vegetarian version. - How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. - Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?
Yes, canned chicken is a quick and convenient option. - What size baking dish is best?
A 9×13-inch dish is ideal for this recipe. - How do I make it spicier?
Add chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to the ranch sauce. - Can I make this dairy-free?
Use dairy-free butter, milk, cheese, and ranch dressing. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or in the microwave until warm. - Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. - Do I have to cook the chicken before adding it?
Yes, the chicken should be fully cooked before adding to the casserole. - What’s the best way to cook the chicken for this dish?
Baking, boiling, or slow-cooking works well. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger baking dish or bake in two separate dishes. - Do I need to thaw the tater tots first?
No, use them frozen directly from the bag. - Can I add cream cheese to the sauce?
Yes, for extra creaminess, stir in 4 oz of softened cream cheese. - Can I use a different sauce base?
Alfredo or a cheesy béchamel sauce can be used instead of ranch sauce. - Can I omit the flour in the sauce?
Use cornstarch or arrowroot powder as a thickener if needed. - How can I make it more kid-friendly?
Use mild cheese and omit any spicy seasonings. - Can I top it with breadcrumbs?
Yes, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top for a crunchy finish. - Can I use turkey bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon is a great lighter option. - What other seasonings can I add?
Paprika, parsley, or thyme can enhance the flavor. - Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours. - How many servings does this recipe make?
It serves 6-8 people depending on portion sizes. - Can I use a non-dairy milk alternative?
Yes, unsweetened almond, soy, or oat milk can be used.
30 Tips to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Casserole More Decadent
- Add a layer of cream cheese for extra creaminess.
- Use homemade ranch dressing for a fresher taste.
- Sprinkle crushed potato chips on top for a crunchy finish.
- Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Use smoked bacon for a deeper flavor.
- Mix in caramelized onions for sweetness.
- Swap tater tots for waffle fries or hash browns.
- Top with fresh parsley or green onions before serving.
- Layer in thinly sliced mushrooms for extra texture.
- Add extra cheese for an ultra-gooey casserole.
- Drizzle with hot sauce or sriracha before serving.
- Use smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Incorporate diced ham for additional protein.
- Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the top before baking.
- Add fresh spinach for added nutrition.
- Replace tater tots with sweet potato tots for sweetness.
- Use a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor.
- Add diced bell peppers for color and crunch.
- Use buttermilk in the sauce for tanginess.
- Top with fried onions for a crispy topping.
- Add BBQ sauce for a tangy twist.
- Stir in cooked broccoli florets for added veggies.
- Use garlic herb butter for a flavor boost.
- Incorporate roasted red peppers for sweetness.
- Replace chicken with pulled pork for a twist.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream on top.
- Add crispy crumbled sausage for a meaty flavor.
- Drizzle with honey mustard sauce for tangy sweetness.
- Sprinkle crushed crackers over the top before baking.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.