Cracked Out Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients:
1 lb ground chicken or ground beef (your choice)
1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked, crumbled bacon (or pre-cooked bacon bits)
4 cups frozen tater tots
1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the Meat:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground chicken or beef until browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and drain any excess fat.
Mix the Casserole:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and ranch seasoning mix. Stir in the cooked meat, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and most of the bacon (reserve a small amount for topping).
Assemble the Casserole:
Spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the tater tots in a single layer over the top.
Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and reserved bacon over the top of the tater tots.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Serve:
Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Serve hot.
