Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake Recipe
Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake is a comforting casserole featuring shredded chicken mixed with creamy ranch dressing and savory spices, topped with crispy frozen tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. This easy oven-baked dish combines the richness of cheddar and ranch with the satisfying crunch of golden tater tots, finished with fresh green onions for a burst of flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Main 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
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Prepare the chicken mixture: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken with ranch dressing, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly with the flavorful dressing and spices.
- Assemble the casserole: Grease a baking dish to prevent sticking, then spread the chicken and ranch mixture evenly on the bottom of the dish to form a uniform layer.
- Add the tater tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the chicken mixture to create a crispy topping when baked.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots to ensure it melts and creates a rich, golden crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are 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 over the top for a fresh, mild onion flavor before serving hot.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture before assembling.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
- You can substitute cooked turkey or plant-based protein for chicken to suit dietary preferences or add variety.
Keywords: Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake, chicken casserole, tater tot casserole, ranch chicken bake, easy dinner casserole
