Ingredients
Scale
- 1 bag (32 ounces) Frozen Tater Tots
- 1 packet (1 ounce) Ranch seasoning and dressing mix
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) Cream of Chicken Soup
- 8 slices Turkey Bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups Shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup Milk (or Sour Cream)
- 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Unsalted butter (for greasing the dish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, ranch seasoning mix, and black pepper until smooth.
- Step 2: Gently fold 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and all of the cooked, crumbled turkey bacon into the soup mixture. Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, ensuring it is spread evenly.
- Step 3: Arrange the frozen Tater Tots in a single, even layer over the top of the ranch mixture. Ensure the mixture is fully covered by the tots, pressing them lightly into the filling.
- Step 4: Bake the casserole uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the filling is hot and bubbly and the Tater Tots are golden brown and crispy around the edges.
- Step 5: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the Tater Tots. Return the casserole to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is completely melted and slightly bubbly. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, but note the tater tots may lose some crispness upon cooling.
- To revive the crispy texture, reheat individual slices in a toaster oven or standard oven set to 350°F until warm throughout, rather than using a microwave which tends to steam the tots.
- Serve this hearty casserole with a dollop of sour cream or extra ranch dressing on top, and pair it with a simple side salad or sliced tomatoes to cut through the richness.
- To ensure the ranch seasoning fully dissolves and doesn't clump, whisk it thoroughly into the liquid ingredients (soup and milk) *before* folding in the heavier ingredients like cheese and bacon.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American