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Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake – Easy Family Comfort Food

This Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake is pure comfort food made easy. Creamy ranch-coated chicken, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy golden tater tots come together in one cozy casserole that’s guaranteed to make everyone at the table happy. It’s warm, hearty, and perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or relaxed family dinners. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing casserole that’s simple to prepare and loaded with familiar flavors, this recipe is a must-add to your rotation.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
bake time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Casserole Base
  • 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced
  • 1 cup ranch dressing
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
Seasoning & Flavor
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
Topping
  • 3 cups frozen tater tots
Finish
  • ½ cup green onions sliced
  • These ingredients create a creamy cheesy chicken tater tot bake with a crispy golden topping.

Equipment

  • Oven-safe baking dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Oven

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
  1. Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
  2. Lightly grease a baking dish.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
  1. Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  2. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken.
Step 4: Add Tater Tots
  1. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
Step 5: Bake
  1. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until tater tots are golden brown and crispy and the casserole is bubbling.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
  1. Remove from the oven.
  2. Sprinkle sliced green onions over the top.
  3. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven for best crispiness.
Microwave reheating works but softens the tater tots.
🥄 Variations
Extra Cheesy: Add another ½ cup cheddar cheese.
Veggie Boost: Add peas or corn to the chicken mixture.
Spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes or pepper.
Lighter: Use a lighter ranch-style dressing.
Meal Prep Friendly: Assemble ahead and bake when ready.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, it works perfectly.
Do I need to thaw tater tots?
No, use them straight from frozen.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Very—mild, creamy, and familiar flavors.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate before baking.
Will the bottom be creamy?
Yes, the ranch sauce keeps it moist.
Can I freeze it?
Freeze before baking for best results.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar melts beautifully, but blends also work.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger baking dish.
Is it a full meal?
Yes—protein, carbs, and comfort in one dish.
What pairs well with it?
A simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
🏁 Conclusion
This Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake is creamy, crispy, and endlessly comforting—an easy family favorite that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.