This creamy Cracked Out Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is the comfort food you dream about. Packed with tender chicken, crispy bacon, melty cheese, and golden tater tots, it’s the ultimate easy dinner that everyone will love.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- It’s cheesy, creamy, and packed with flavor.
- Perfect for busy weeknights or potluck dinners.
- Uses simple ingredients you probably already have.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken : brings protein and hearty flavor
- Cream of chicken soup : adds creamy texture
- Sour cream : makes the base rich and tangy
- Shredded cheddar cheese : gives that gooey cheesy bite
- Beef Bacon bits : adds crispy salty crunch
- Dry ranch mix : gives that zesty ranch flavor
- Frozen tater tots : create the crispy golden topping
- Green onions : add freshness and color
Step by Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, sour cream, dry ranch mix, and half of the cheese.
- Stir in cooked chicken and bacon bits until well coated.
- Spread mixture into the prepared baking dish evenly.
- Top with frozen tater tots in a single layer.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until tater tots are golden and cheese is bubbling.
- Let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with green onions before serving.
Mistakes To Avoid
To get the best Cracked Out Chicken Tater Tot Casserole, avoid these simple mistakes for a perfectly creamy texture and crispy top.
- Do not thaw the tater tots before baking. They should go in frozen for the perfect crisp.
- Avoid overbaking, or the sauce will dry out instead of staying creamy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole hot with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies on the side. For another creamy comfort meal, try this creamy ground beef pasta recipe. You can also pair it with a bold and zesty dish like this cheesy taco rice skillet with ground beef for a full family dinner spread. If you want something lighter but flavorful, the melt in your mouth Santa Fe chicken recipe makes a perfect side. Finish your meal with a simple salad or roasted corn for balance.
Cracked Out Chicken Tater Tot Casserole
Equipment
- Baking Dish
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
- 1 cup bacon bits
- 1 packet dry ranch mix
- 1 bag frozen tater tots
- 1/4 cup green onions sliced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, sour cream, dry ranch mix, and half of the cheese.
- Stir in cooked chicken and bacon bits until well coated.
- Spread mixture into the prepared baking dish evenly.
- Top with frozen tater tots in a single layer.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until tater tots are golden and cheese is bubbling.
- Let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with green onions before serving.
Notes
FAQs
Can I make this Cracked Chicken Tater Tot Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Assemble the casserole as directed but do not bake it. Cover tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to one day. When ready, bake it uncovered as usual. You may need to add 5 to 10 extra minutes since it starts cold. This trick makes it great for meal prep or family gatherings.
Can I use rotisserie chicken in this Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Casserole?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds rich flavor. Simply shred about three cups and mix it right into the creamy base. The smoky flavor from the chicken pairs perfectly with bacon and ranch. It’s a quick and easy shortcut for busy nights without losing taste or texture.
Can I freeze this Cheesy Chicken Bacon Tater Tot Casserole?
Yes! After baking, let it cool fully, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake covered at 350 degrees until warmed through. The tater tots stay crisp and the filling creamy when reheated this way.
Conclusion
This Cracked Out Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with bacon and ranch flavor. It’s everything comfort food should be in one easy dish. Save or pin this recipe for your next cozy night in, and try it with other favorites like the Longhorn Steakhouse chicken recipe for even more family dinner inspiration.
