Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

Name: Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups cooked and shredded chicken; 1 cup buffalo sauce; 1 cup ranch dressing; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots; 1/2 cup green onions, sliced; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Prep Meal Collection

I absolutely love creating comfort food that brings a smile to everyone's face, and this Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole does just that! The combination of spicy buffalo chicken, crispy tater tots, and gooey cheese is truly irresistible. It makes for an easy weeknight dinner or a delightful dish for gatherings. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked! Plus, it's a fantastic way to use leftover chicken, making it both delicious and resourceful.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-23T21:34:27.471Z

When I first made this dish, I was inspired by the classic buffalo chicken wings that I adore. I wanted to transform that bold flavor into a comforting casserole that my family would love. The crispy tater tots on top add the perfect texture contrast to the creamy, spicy chicken below.

One tip I discovered while experimenting was to mix a bit of ranch dressing into the chicken mixture. It balances the heat of the buffalo sauce beautifully, and gives the casserole a delightful creaminess. I can't wait for you to try it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Spicy and tangy flavor that satisfies cravings
Crispy tater tots that add texture to every bite
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep

Ingredient Insights

The star of this casserole is the shredded chicken, which not only adds protein but also serves as a base for soaking up the flavors of buffalo sauce and ranch dressing. When selecting rotisserie chicken, opt for those with a well-seasoned skin, as it enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Additionally, if you're using leftover chicken, make sure it’s moist to prevent the casserole from becoming dry during cooking.

Buffalo sauce provides the signature kick, but feel free to adjust the heat by choosing your favorite brand or even making your own. If you’re sensitive to spice, opting for a milder sauce or combining it with more ranch dressing can balance the heat. The ranch dressing not only adds creaminess but also complements the spicy elements, creating a richly layered flavor profile.

The Art of Layering

When layering your casserole, ensure the chicken mixture is spread evenly to create a uniform flavor throughout. Using a spatula can help achieve this. As for the tater tots, spreading them in a single layer ensures they bake up perfectly crispy. Overlapping them may lead to uneven cooking, which can leave some tots soggy. Aim for golden brown edges as a sign of doneness, indicating they’ve absorbed enough heat to become delightfully crunchy.

Don’t skip the extra cheese on top—this step not only enhances the flavor but also helps bind the layers. Depending on your preferences, you can substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack for a creamier texture or add a sprinkle of blue cheese for a more traditional buffalo flavor. These variations can take your casserole from basic to extraordinary.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create the perfect Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole:

Ingredients

4 cups cooked and shredded chicken
1 cup buffalo sauce
1 cup ranch dressing
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
1/2 cup green onions, sliced
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these steps to whip up your casserole:

Preheat oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Mix ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, garlic powder, half of the cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Layer casserole

Spread the chicken mixture evenly in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Layer the frozen tater tots on top and sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and garnish with green onions. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some crumbled blue cheese on top just before serving. It pairs perfectly with the buffalo flavor!

Make-Ahead Tips

This Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is excellent for meal prep. You can assemble it the night before and store it in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld overnight. Just remember to cover it well to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other refrigerator odors. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the casserole from the fridge, let it sit for about 15 minutes, then pop it in the oven as instructed.

If you want to take it a step further, consider freezing the casserole before baking. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then foil, and it can last in the freezer for up to three months. To cook from frozen, you'll need to increase the baking time to 45-60 minutes. Cover the top with foil for the first half to prevent burning, then uncover to brown the top.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing this casserole with classic sides can elevate your meal. A simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the dish, offering a refreshing balance. Coleslaw is another great option; its crunch provides a nice contrast to the creamy cheese and soft potato tots.

For a fun twist, consider serving the casserole with a side of celery sticks and carrot sticks alongside some ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping—echoing the flavors of buffalo wings. This adds a playful element and makes the dish even more interactive for gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of sauce?

Yes! You can substitute the buffalo sauce with BBQ sauce for a sweeter flavor.

→ How can I make this casserole healthier?

Use baked tater tots, reduced-fat ranch, and add veggies like bell peppers or spinach to the chicken mixture.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with it?

This casserole pairs well with a side salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal.