Golden, crispy tater tots top a creamy, cheesy chicken and bacon filling in this ultra-comforting casserole. Ranch seasoning pulls it all together for the perfect family-style dinner or game-day crowd-pleaser.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 8
Dietary Info: Contains Dairy | Gluten (in soup & tots) | Freezer-Friendly
📝 Ingredients Checklist
Base:
32 oz frozen tater tots
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
1 can cream of chicken soup
16 oz sour cream
1 lb bacon (cooked and crumbled)
1 lb cooked chicken (shredded or chopped; rotisserie works great)
Garnish:
2 tbsp sliced green onions
2 tbsp reserved crumbled bacon
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, crumbled bacon (reserve 2 tbsp for garnish), sour cream, cream of chicken soup, ranch seasoning, and shredded cheese. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated.
3. Assemble the Casserole
Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with a single layer of frozen tater tots.
4. Bake
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy on top.
5. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with sliced green onions and the reserved crumbled bacon. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy, crunchy goodness.
💡 Pro Tips for Tater Tot Perfection
🍗 Shortcut Win: Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor.
🧊 Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance.
❄️ Freezer Friendly: Assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze unbaked. Bake from frozen, adding 10–15 extra minutes.
🔄 Swap Options: Use turkey bacon, low-fat sour cream, or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
🥘 The Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser
This casserole is comfort food to the core. Creamy, cheesy, crunchy, and full of smoky bacon and savory ranch flavor—it’s always a hit at gatherings, potlucks, or an easy weeknight dinner.
👨🍳 Cooking Walkthrough
The Filling
Mix gently so your ingredients stay textured (not mushy). The ranch seasoning adds punchy flavor, so no need for extra spices.
Layering Tots
Don’t stack the tots—lay them out in a single, even layer to ensure maximum crispness.
Baking Tip
Bake uncovered for a crunchy finish. If your oven runs hot, rotate the pan halfway through for even browning.
🧂 Ingredient Swaps & Variations
Customize It:
Spicy Twist: Add ½ tsp crushed red pepper or chopped jalapeños
Veggie Add-In: Stir in cooked broccoli or spinach for added greens
Cheese Swap: Try pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or a cheddar blend
Dietary Adjustments:
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and GF-certified tots
Lower Carb: Use cauliflower tots or roasted cauliflower florets instead
🍽 Serving Ideas & Pairings
Serve With:
Simple side salad or steamed veggies
Garlic bread or buttery biscuits
Iced tea or a light beer
🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Store:
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat:
Bake at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions. For crispier tots, reheat in an air fryer or toaster oven.
Freeze:
Assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 400°F for 50–60 minutes.
🧮 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)
Calories: ~520 kcal
Total Fat: ~35g
Carbohydrates: ~28g
Protein: ~24g
Allergens: Dairy, Gluten
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use canned chicken instead of fresh?
A: Yes, though rotisserie or cooked fresh chicken gives better texture and flavor.
Q: Can I make this without sour cream?
A: You can substitute with plain Greek yogurt or a mix of cream cheese and milk.
Q: Will it get soggy if I make it ahead?
A: Not if you bake it fresh. To avoid soggy tots, add them just before baking.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Yes! Omit the chicken and bacon, and replace with sautéed mushrooms, broccoli, or plant-based meat crumbles.
💬 The Casserole Everyone Comes Back For
This Cheesy Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is cozy, creamy, and impossible to resist. It’s quick to make, easy to love, and totally adaptable—your new favorite go-to for when you need a crowd-pleasing meal in a pinch.
Want more cozy casseroles? Try my [Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake] or [Loaded Baked Potato Casserole] next!
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