Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

This chicken bacon ranch casserole brings together everyone's favorite flavors in one comforting dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. The creamy ranch sauce, tender chicken, crispy tater tots, and melty cheese create the ultimate crowd-pleaser that disappears quickly at my dinner table.

I first made this casserole when I needed to feed a crowd after my son's baseball game. It was such a hit that the parents were asking for the recipe before they even finished their plates. Now it's requested at nearly every family gathering.

Ingredients

• Shredded chicken: Gives this dish protein and substance. Rotisserie chicken works perfectly if you're short on time
• Flour and butter: Create a roux that thickens the sauce beautifully without lumps
• Milk: Adds creaminess while keeping the sauce lighter than using all cream
• Ranch dressing: Provides that unmistakable tangy herb flavor everyone loves
• Cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly and creates that irresistible golden top
• Tater tots: Add crispy texture and make this a true one dish meal
• Bacon crumbles: Bring smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the ranch
• Salt and pepper: Balance the flavors but adjust to your preference

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This high temperature ensures the tater tots get extra crispy while the casserole stays moist inside.

Layer the Chicken:

Spread the 4 cups of shredded chicken evenly across the bottom of a well greased 9x13 baking dish. Make sure to break up any large chunks for even cooking and better texture in every bite.

Create the Roux:

Place 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 2 tablespoons of flour in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and the butter completely melts. This creates the base for your creamy sauce.

Make the Sauce:

Slowly add the cup of milk to your roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 3 to 5 minutes.

Add the Ranch:

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in half cup of ranch dressing along with salt and pepper to taste. The sauce should be silky smooth with a beautiful ranch aroma.

Assemble the Base:

Pour the warm sauce evenly over the chicken layer in your baking dish, making sure to cover all areas. This sauce will infuse the chicken with moisture and flavor as it bakes.

Add First Cheese Layer:

Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the sauce layer. This middle layer of cheese creates a gooey center that holds everything together.

Top with Tater Tots:

Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese. For extra crispiness, make sure they're not overlapping too much.

Initial Baking:

Bake the casserole for 20 minutes in your preheated oven. This first bake starts cooking the tots and helps the layers meld together.

Final Topping and Baking:

Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle with bacon crumbles and the remaining cup of cheddar cheese. Return to the oven for another 15 to 20 minutes until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

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The smoked bacon is truly the secret star of this dish. I remember the first time I made this for my brother who claims to dislike ranch dressing. He had three servings and specifically mentioned how much he loved the smoky flavor that complemented the creamy sauce. Sometimes the simplest ingredients create the most memorable meals.

Make Ahead Tips

This casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble everything up to the tater tot layer, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to take the chill off, then top with tater tots and proceed with the recipe. If baking from cold, you may need to add 5 to 10 minutes to the initial baking time.

Customization Options

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Try adding steamed broccoli florets or sautéed mushrooms between the chicken and sauce layer for extra vegetables. For a spicy kick, mix some hot sauce into the ranch dressing or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the top. You can also substitute ground beef or turkey for the chicken, or use sweet potato tots instead of regular tater tots for a different flavor profile. The possibilities are endless, making this a great recipe to adapt to your family's preferences.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving this casserole with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a complete meal, steamed green beans or roasted asparagus make excellent sides. If you're feeding a hungry crowd, warm dinner rolls or garlic bread are always appreciated to soak up any extra sauce. This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but versatile enough to pair with almost any side.

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Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating, use an oven or toaster oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through, about 15 to 20 minutes. This maintains the crispy texture of the tater tots better than microwave reheating. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use other types of cheese in this casserole?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor profile.

→ How can I make this dish ahead of time?

Assemble the casserole up to the point of baking. Cover and refrigerate for up to 1 day, then bake as directed when ready to serve.

→ Can I use frozen chicken instead of shredded chicken?

It's best to use cooked, shredded chicken. If using frozen chicken, ensure it is fully cooked and shredded before adding it to the dish.

→ What are some suitable substitutes for ranch dressing?

If you're not a fan of ranch, you can use a creamy Caesar dressing, garlic aioli, or a homemade dressing of your choice.

→ Can I make the casserole healthier?

You can use light ranch dressing, low-fat cheese, and turkey bacon. You can also replace tater tots with roasted sweet potato chunks for a healthier twist.