Description
This comforting casserole combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, creamy ranch-flavored sauce, and golden tater tots, all topped with melted cheese. It’s a family favorite that’s perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 (1 oz) packet ranch dressing mix
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and ranch dressing mix until smooth.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, half of the shredded cheddar cheese (¾ cup), and half of the crumbled bacon. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top of the chicken mixture.
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Add Cheese and Bacon:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining ¾ cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the remaining crumbled bacon over the top.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired, before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider adding a cup of steamed broccoli or a can of drained green beans to the chicken mixture.
- This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. If baking from cold, add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.