This Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is a hearty, spicy, and cheesy dish that brings together the bold flavors of buffalo chicken dip with the comforting crunch of golden tater tots. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, game days, or potlucks.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly easy to prepare and delivers a satisfying meal that everyone enjoys. The combination of creamy buffalo chicken and crispy tater tots creates a delightful contrast in textures and flavors. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize to my taste preferences.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 1/2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
1 cup sour cream
1 cup ranch dressing
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
22 oz frozen tater tots

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 2-quart casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, sour cream, ranch dressing, cream of chicken soup, and buffalo wing sauce until well combined.
Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken mixture.
Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

Spicier Version: I add more buffalo wing sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper to increase the heat.
Different Cheeses: Sometimes I mix in pepper jack or mozzarella cheese for a different flavor profile.
Vegetable Addition: I like to add chopped celery or green onions for extra crunch and flavor.
Blue Cheese: For a classic buffalo wing experience, I sprinkle blue cheese crumbles on top before baking.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer: To freeze, I let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: I reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

FAQs

What type of chicken works best for this casserole?

I find that cooked and shredded rotisserie chicken is convenient and flavorful, but any cooked chicken breast or thigh meat works well.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, I assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. I add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

Is there a substitute for ranch dressing?

If I don’t have ranch dressing, I use a mixture of mayonnaise and a blend of herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder to mimic the flavor.

Can I use homemade buffalo sauce?

Absolutely! I make my own buffalo sauce by combining hot sauce with melted butter to taste.

What sides pair well with this casserole?

I often serve this casserole with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or carrot and celery sticks to balance the richness of the dish.

Conclusion

This Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy. Whether I’m feeding a hungry family or bringing a dish to a gathering, this casserole is always a hit.