Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure with our Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole recipe. This mouthwatering dish combines the irresistible flavors of crispy bacon, tender chicken, creamy ranch dressing, and cheesy tater tots into one satisfying casserole. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a potluck dinner, this hearty and comforting dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Join us as we dive into the world of savory casseroles and discover the ultimate comfort food.
INGREDIENTS:
6 slices of cooked bacon (or microwave bacon)
4 cooked and shredded chicken breasts
32 oz. bag of frozen tater tots
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1 cup milk
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
3 tbsp butter
1 1/2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Layer Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in an even layer on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Add Chicken and Bacon: Sprinkle the cooked and shredded chicken breasts evenly over the tater tots. Crumble the cooked bacon slices and sprinkle them over the chicken.
Prepare Ranch Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the ranch dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Pour Ranch Sauce: Pour the ranch sauce evenly over the chicken and bacon in the baking dish.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, covering it completely.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tater tots are crispy and golden brown.
Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and bacon to make a vegetarian version of this casserole. You can add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or broccoli for added flavor and texture.
Spice It Up: For a little extra kick, add some diced jalapenos or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the casserole before baking.
Creamy Variation: Instead of ranch dressing, you can use sour cream or Greek yogurt mixed with ranch seasoning for a creamier texture.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a ketogenic or low-carb diet, you can easily adapt this recipe to fit your dietary needs.
Low-Carb Tater Tots: Look for cauliflower or broccoli tots as a lower-carb alternative to traditional potato tater tots.
Replace Flour: Substitute almond flour or coconut flour for all-purpose flour to thicken the ranch sauce while keeping it low-carb.
Use Low-Carb Ranch Dressing: Opt for a low-carb or homemade ranch dressing made with keto-friendly ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked and shredded chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use fresh chicken breasts. Simply season them with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices, then cook them until fully cooked before shredding and adding to the casserole.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to prevent the tater tots from drying out.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer individual portions or the entire casserole to freezer-safe containers or bags. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in the oven until warmed through.
What can I serve with Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole?
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner.
In conclusion, Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its layers of crispy tater tots, savory chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish, this casserole fits the bill. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole.
