Introduction
Dive into the delicious world of comfort food with this Cheesy Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole—without the use of traditional potatoes! Perfect for those who love cheesy, bacon-filled dishes, this casserole is sure to become a go-to favorite in your home. With wholesome ingredients and an irresistible blend of flavors, it’s a comforting meal that combines the satisfaction of tater tots with the delightful creaminess of ranch dressing and the savory crunch of bacon. Get ready to indulge!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 4 cooked, shredded chicken breasts
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp butter
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 32 oz. frozen tater tots
- 1.5 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and get ready for some culinary magic.
2. Cook your bacon until it’s deliciously crispy, then chop it up.
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter and stir in the flour. Gradually whisk in the milk until it’s thickened. Remove from heat, and mix in the ranch dressing, salt, and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, chopped bacon, and half of the cheese. Pour in your creamy ranch sauce and give it a good stir.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer your crispy tater tots, then spread the chicken mixture evenly on top.
6. Sprinkle the remaining cheese all over.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden brown.
8. Let it cool slightly before serving, to let all the flavors meld together.
9. Dive in and enjoy!
Now you can relish every bite of this cheesy, satisfying casserole that transforms your typical comfort food experience into something truly special!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
Cook 6 slices of bacon in a skillet until they’re crispy. Once cooked, chop the bacon into small pieces.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Ranch Sauce
In a saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Gradually whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour until combined. Slowly pour in 1 cup of milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens. Remove from the heat and stir in 1 cup of ranch dressing, adding salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Bacon
In a large bowl, mix 4 cooked, shredded chicken breasts with the chopped bacon and 0.75 cups of shredded mild cheddar cheese. Pour in the creamy ranch sauce and stir until everything is well coated.
Step 5: Layer the Tater Tots
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly layer 32 oz. of frozen tater tots at the bottom of the dish.
Step 6: Spread the Chicken Mixture
Spread the chicken and bacon mixture evenly over the layer of tater tots.
Step 7: Add the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the remaining 0.75 cups of shredded mild cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
Step 8: Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 9: Cool Before Serving
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Notes
Storage
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking. Just assemble it and cover it tightly. When ready to bake, cook directly from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Variations
Feel free to add vegetables such as broccoli or corn for added nutrition and flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for a unique spin on the dish.
Cook techniques
Preheating the Oven
Ensure your oven is preheated to 375°F (190°C) before placing your casserole inside. This step is crucial for even cooking and achieving a golden brown topping.
Crispy Bacon Technique
Cook the bacon until it’s crispy to enhance its flavor and texture. Use medium heat to achieve the perfect crispiness without burning.
Making a Roux
Melt butter in a saucepan and whisk in flour gradually to create a roux. This thickening agent will help create a creamy sauce that binds the filling together.
Layering for Best Results
When assembling the casserole, layer the tater tots first to create a crispy base, followed by the cheesy chicken mixture. This layering helps in distributing flavors evenly.
Knowing When It’s Done
Bake the casserole for 30-35 minutes, watching for bubbling and a golden brown top. This indicates that it’s fully cooked and ready to serve.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute with your preferred cheese such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken and bacon with plant-based alternatives like tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth in place of milk.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze the casserole before baking?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole and freeze it before baking. Just remember to extend the baking time if it’s frozen.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
Elevate your comfort food experience with this Cheesy Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole. It’s packed with flavor and easy to make, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole
Try adding buffalo sauce to the chicken mixture for a spicy twist.
Vegetable Tater Tot Casserole
Incorporate your favorite vegetables to make it more nutritious.
BBQ Chicken Tater Tot Casserole
Swap ranch dressing for your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor.
Cheesy Breakfast Tater Tot Casserole
Use breakfast sausage, eggs, and cheese for a hearty breakfast option.
