Why Make This Recipe
Chicken Bacon Crunch Casserole is a perfect comfort food dish that is easy to prepare and a hit with the whole family. It combines crispy tater tots, savory chicken, and rich flavors of bacon and cheese. If you’re looking for a hearty meal that’s both filling and delicious, this casserole is the way to go. It’s great for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even as a special treat on the weekend.
How to Make Chicken Bacon Crunch Casserole
Ingredients:
- 32 oz frozen tater tots
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked bacon, ranch seasoning, sour cream, and milk. Mix until well combined.
- In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer the frozen tater tots evenly on the bottom.
- Spread the chicken and bacon mixture over the tater tots.
- Sprinkle the cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with green onions if desired and serve hot.
How to Serve Chicken Bacon Crunch Casserole
Serve Chicken Bacon Crunch Casserole hot right out of the oven. It can be a standalone meal or paired with a simple salad for a balanced plate. The cheesy and savory flavors will surely satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
How to Store Chicken Bacon Crunch Casserole
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge and then follow the baking instructions.
Tips to Make Chicken Bacon Crunch Casserole
- Use leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Cook the bacon until it’s crispy for extra crunch.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese based on your preference.
- You can add vegetables like corn or peas for added nutrition.
Variation
For a spicy twist, consider adding jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar. You can also swap the ranch seasoning for a taco or Cajun seasoning for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use fresh chicken. Just cook and shred it before mixing it with the other ingredients.
2. Is there a substitute for sour cream?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or cream cheese as a substitute for sour cream.
3. Can this casserole be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead, cover it, and keep it in the fridge before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s going directly from the fridge to the oven.
