Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake Recipe
Introduction
Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake is a comforting and flavorful casserole that combines tender chicken, zesty ranch dressing, crispy tater tots, and melty cheddar cheese. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 3 cups frozen tater tots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 2: In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken with ranch dressing, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
- Step 3: Spread the chicken mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
- Step 4: Arrange the frozen tater tots evenly on top of the chicken mixture.
- Step 5: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the layer of tater tots.
- Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Step 7: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use rotisserie chicken for a time-saving shortcut without sacrificing flavor.
- For added veggies, mix in some chopped bell peppers or spinach into the chicken mixture.
- Try swapping ranch dressing for a spicy ranch or adding a dash of hot sauce for extra kick.
- For a dairy-free version, use non-dairy cheese and ranch dressing alternatives.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through and the tater tots regain their crispiness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from chilled.
What can I use instead of tater tots?
If you prefer, you can use frozen hash browns or thinly sliced potatoes as a substitute. Just ensure they cook thoroughly and become crispy during baking.
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Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Description
Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake is a delicious, comforting casserole combining shredded chicken tossed in creamy ranch dressing with crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. This easy-to-make baked dish offers a perfect balance of savory flavors and crispy textures, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Topping
- 3 cups frozen tater tots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the casserole evenly and getting the tater tots crispy.
- Combine chicken and seasoning: In a large bowl, mix the shredded cooked chicken with ranch dressing, garlic powder, and onion powder until the chicken is evenly coated with the flavorful ranch and spices.
- Prepare baking dish: Grease a baking dish lightly with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking, then spread the ranch-coated chicken mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Add tater tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the chicken mixture, ensuring they cover it completely for even cooking and crispiness.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the layer of tater tots to create a cheesy crust once baked.
- Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots turn golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color before serving hot.
Notes
- You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or drizzle hot sauce on top before baking.
- Use reduced-fat cheese or ranch dressing for a lighter option.
- Make sure not to thaw the tater tots before baking to ensure optimal crispness.
- This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated; bake just before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cheddar Ranch Chicken, Tater Tot Bake, Chicken Casserole, Easy Dinner, Comfort Food
