Chicken Bacon Crunch Casserole

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All the flavors of a loaded baked potato in one creamy, cheesy, crunchy casserole — packed with chicken, bacon, ranch, and topped with crispy tater tots.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: ~55 minutes
Servings: 8–10
Dietary: Comfort food, Make-ahead friendly

Ingredients

For the casserole:

  • Frozen tater tots – 32 oz bag

  • Sharp cheddar cheese – shredded (2 cups)

  • Ranch seasoning mix – 1 packet

  • Cream of chicken soup – 1 can

  • Sour cream – 16 oz

  • Bacon – 1 lb, cooked & crumbled (reserve 2 tbsp for topping)

  • Cooked chicken – 1 lb, chopped or shredded

For garnish:

  • Green onions – sliced (2 tbsp)

  • Reserved crumbled bacon – 2 tbsp

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven: Set to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  2. Make the filling: In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, most of the crumbled bacon (reserve 2 tbsp for topping), sour cream, cream of chicken soup, ranch seasoning, and shredded cheddar. Mix well.

  3. Assemble: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Arrange tater tots in a single layer over the top.

  4. Bake: Cook for 40 minutes, until tater tots are golden and crispy and the casserole is bubbling.

  5. Garnish & serve: Sprinkle with reserved bacon and sliced green onions. Serve hot.

Quick Notes & Pro Tips

  • Rotisserie chicken: A store-bought rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor.

  • Make-ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until baking.

  • Freezer-friendly: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

  • Extra crunch: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for extra crispy tater tots.

Why You’ll Love It

This dish combines creamy ranch chicken, smoky bacon, gooey cheddar, and perfectly crispy tater tots for a casserole that’s basically comfort food heaven. It’s easy, hearty, and always a hit with the whole family.

Ingredient Details & Substitutions

  • Cheese: Swap sharp cheddar for a cheese blend or pepper jack for a spicy twist.

  • Soup base: Use cream of mushroom or cream of celery if preferred.

  • Bacon: Turkey bacon or pancetta works as a lighter option.

Variations & Serving Suggestions

  • Veggie boost: Add frozen peas, broccoli, or corn to the filling.

  • Buffalo style: Stir ¼ cup buffalo sauce into the chicken mixture for a spicy kick.

  • Serve with: A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness.

Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

  • Freeze: Assemble unbaked casserole, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.

  • Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through for best texture.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
A: Yes — par-cook diced potatoes first for similar crispiness.

Q: Can I use ranch dressing instead of seasoning?
A: Use ¼ cup ranch dressing in place of the packet and slightly reduce sour cream.

Q: How do I keep the tater tots crispy?
A: Bake uncovered and broil briefly at the end for extra crunch.

Personal Note

This casserole has become one of my favorite “crowd-pleaser” dishes — it’s like a fully loaded baked potato and a hearty chicken casserole combined. Perfect for potlucks, game nights, or just a cozy family dinner.

Your turn!
Tried this Chicken Bacon Crunch Casserole? Leave a comment or tag me on social media — I’d love to see your version!

Would you like me to make a “Buffalo Ranch version” (for spice lovers) or a “sheet-pan version” that bakes without layering?

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