🥓 2. Cook & Prep the Bacon
If you’re using raw bacon, cook it until crispy, then chop it into bits.
🥣 3. Make the Creamy Ranch Sauce
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Melt butter in a saucepan.
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Stir in flour to create a roux.
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Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until the sauce thickens.
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Remove from heat and mix in ranch dressing, salt, and pepper.
🍗 4. Combine Chicken & Bacon
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In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, chopped bacon, and half of the shredded cheese.
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Pour in the ranch sauce and stir until well combined.
🥔 5. Assemble the Casserole
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Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Spread frozen tater tots in a single layer at the bottom.
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Evenly distribute the chicken and bacon mixture over the tater tots.
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Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
🔥 6. Bake to Perfection
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Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
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Let it cool for a few minutes before serving—hot cheese can be tricky!
🌟 Variations & Customizations:
💥 Spicy Kick – Add hot sauce to the ranch sauce or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes.
🌿 Vegetarian Option – Skip the chicken & bacon, add spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
🧀 Cheese Swap – Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for extra flavor.
🥔 Extra Crunch – Top with crispy onions or crumbled crackers before baking.
🔥 Pro Tips for the Best Casserole
✔️ Save Time – Use rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken for faster prep.
✔️ Extra Crispy Tots – Bake tater tots for 10-15 minutes before adding the toppings.
✔️ Make-Ahead Friendly – Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate until baking.
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole is comfort food at its best! Creamy, cheesy, crispy, and packed with flavor—it’s a dish that will disappear in no time. 😍 Try it tonight and watch everyone come back for seconds! 🍽️🎉
