Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole

Ingredients

Base mixture:

• 3-4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped

• 8-10 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (reserve 2 tbsp for topping)

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

• 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

For assembly:

• 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots

• 1/4 cup sliced green onions for garnish

• Ranch dressing for serving (optional)

Seasonings:

• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and prepare
Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

Step 2: Mix base ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, most of the crumbled bacon (reserving 2 tablespoons for topping), sour cream, cream of chicken soup, ranch seasoning mix, salt, pepper, and 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Layer the casserole
Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This forms the creamy base of the casserole. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top of the chicken mixture, covering it completely.

Step 4: Initial bake
Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy. The casserole should be bubbly around the edges.

Step 5: Add final toppings
Remove from oven and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese and the reserved bacon crumbles evenly over the top. Return to oven for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted.

Step 6: Garnish and serve
Remove from oven and top with sliced green onions for color and freshness. Serve hot with optional ranch dressing drizzled over individual portions. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set.