Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Bake is the kind of bold, crowd-pleasing casserole that brings the fire to any table. Packed with spicy buffalo flavor, creamy ranch, gooey cheese, and crispy tater tots, it’s a game-day classic that also works as a weeknight indulgence. If you love the fiery kick of wings but want something heartier and easier to make, this dish delivers the goods in one satisfying pan.
What makes this casserole stand out is the marriage of heat and creaminess. The shredded chicken soaks up the buffalo sauce and ranch dressing, creating a rich, spicy base that’s both mouthwatering and comforting. That’s then blanketed with a generous layer of cheddar cheese, topped with golden tater tots, and baked until bubbling and crisp.
It’s the kind of no-fuss meal that’s perfect for using up leftover chicken or grabbing a rotisserie bird from the store. You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen—just a mixing bowl, a baking dish, and a hearty appetite. And with a prep time of just 10 minutes, it’s a lifesaver when you want something hot, fast, and family-approved.
Serve it straight from the oven for dinner, or slice it into squares for party trays and potlucks. Add some blue cheese crumbles or a final drizzle of buffalo sauce for that extra touch. Whether you’re craving comfort or cooking for a crowd, this recipe delivers bold flavor in every bite.
Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- ½ cup buffalo wing sauce
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (28 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- Optional toppings: sliced green onions, blue cheese crumbles, extra buffalo sauce drizzle
Instructions
- Preheat and prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13” baking dish with cooking spray or a light coating of oil.
- Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with buffalo wing sauce and ranch dressing. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated.
- Assemble the casserole: Spread the buffalo chicken mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle 1½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken layer.
- Top with tots: Arrange frozen tater tots in a single, even layer over the top of the cheese.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Finish with cheese: Remove from the oven, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese on top, and return to the oven for 5 more minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted.
- Garnish and serve: Top with sliced green onions, crumbled blue cheese, or an extra drizzle of buffalo sauce if desired. Serve hot.
Variations
- Spice level control: Use a mild buffalo sauce for a less spicy version, or go for a hot variety if you love heat.
- Add veggies: Mix in some sautéed onions, diced celery, or bell peppers with the chicken for added texture and flavor.
- Blue cheese blend: Swap some of the cheddar for blue cheese if you’re a fan of that classic wing pairing.
- Low-carb twist: Replace tater tots with cauliflower tots or roasted cauliflower florets for a lighter take.
Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken: It’s a huge time-saver and adds great flavor to the base.
- Crispier top: For extra crunch, broil the casserole for 2–3 minutes at the end—just keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- Make ahead: Assemble the dish ahead of time and store covered in the fridge until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Serving idea: Pair with a crisp green salad or celery sticks for a cool, crunchy contrast.
This Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Bake is the ultimate combo of spicy, cheesy, crispy goodness—ready to impress at dinner or your next tailgate gathering.
