Name: Cream of Chicken Tater Tot Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 32 oz tater tots (frozen); 16 oz sour cream; 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup; 1 cup Cheddar cheese (shredded); 6 oz French fried onions; chopped fresh tomatoes; chopped fresh parsley

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When I think about comfort food, one dish that always comes to mind is Cream of Chicken Tater Tot Casserole. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, perfect for those chilly winter nights when you need a little extra love on your plate. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; the anticipation was palpable as the aroma filled the kitchen, drawing everyone in. It was a chaotic week, and I was looking for something hearty yet simple to whip up. The combination of crispy tater tots and creamy chicken soup was a hit! We gathered around the table, and as we dug in, I was reminded of how food has the power to bring people together.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
50 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
40 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
370 kcal

Protein:
10 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
22 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife

What’s Great About This Cream of Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

There’s so much to love about Cream of Chicken Tater Tot Casserole. First of all, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. You simply layer, mix, and bake; it’s hard to mess this one up! Not only does it require minimal effort, but it also uses straightforward ingredients that you likely have on hand. Secondly, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s dinner with family or a gathering with friends, this casserole is always met with rave reviews.

Comforting Flavor

The flavor profile is rich and comforting. The creamy mixture of sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and cheddar cheese creates a luscious base that pairs perfectly with the crunchy texture of the tater tots. It’s a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more. I love how each bite offers something different; the crispy topping, the warm filling, and bursts of freshness from the toppings.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This dish isn’t just for winter. It makes an appearance at potlucks, game days, and even casual family dinners. I often find myself making it when I have a busy week ahead. It stores well in the fridge, and leftovers are just as enjoyable, if not better, the next day. You can easily put it together in the morning, pop it in the oven when you’re ready, and enjoy a delicious homemade meal without much fuss.

Customizable

Another reason to love this casserole is its versatility. While the classic version is delicious, you can easily modify it to fit your taste. Want to add some veggies? Go ahead and throw in some broccoli or spinach! Want a bit of spice? Add some jalapeños for a kick. The options are endless, ensuring that it never gets dull.

Family Bonding

Lastly, preparing Cream of Chicken Tater Tot Casserole can be a fun family activity. Get the kids involved—let them layer the ingredients or sprinkle on the French fried onions. It’s a great way to bond over food and create lasting memories in the kitchen.

What to Gather for Cream of Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

The ingredients for this casserole are simple yet effective. Each plays a critical role in creating the ultimate comfort dish. The star of the show, the tater tots, provides the perfect crunchy base, while the creamy mixture of sour cream and cream of chicken soup brings everything together in a flavorful embrace. Add in some tangy cheddar cheese for richness and finish it off with crispy French fried onions for texture. Together, these ingredients create a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

32 oz tater tots (frozen): The crunchy base that gives this casserole its signature texture.
16 oz sour cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang that balances the flavors.
10.5 oz cream of chicken soup: Provides a rich and savory foundation for the dish.
1 cup Cheddar cheese (shredded): Melts beautifully and adds a cheesy goodness.
6 oz French fried onions: A crispy topping that adds texture and flavor.
Chopped fresh tomatoes: A fresh garnish that brings color and a hint of acidity.
Chopped fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish.

Cooking Method for Cream of Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

Cooking this delicious casserole is straightforward and enjoyable. It’s all about layering the ingredients and letting the oven do the magic. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll have a delightful dish everyone will rave about. Let’s get started!

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. This step is crucial as it prevents the casserole from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Next, take the frozen tater tots and spread them evenly on the bottom of the prepared pan. Aim for minimal overlap to achieve that delightful crispiness. This is where the base of your casserole is formed.
In a mixing bowl, add the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything together well until you achieve a uniform mixture. This creamy layer is what makes the casserole so comforting and flavorful.
Now, take the creamy mixture and spread it evenly over the layer of tater tots. Make sure to cover them thoroughly; you want every single tot to be enveloped in that rich goodness.
Sprinkle the French fried onions generously on top of the creamy mixture. This provides a wonderful crunch and flavor contrast once baked.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye out for the edges to be bubbly and the top to be golden brown; this indicates that it’s ready to come out.
Once done, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Let it sit for a few minutes to set before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Before serving, top the casserole with chopped fresh tomatoes and parsley. The freshness of these toppings adds not only flavor but also a nice visual appeal.
Serve it warm and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and textures. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it disappears!

Things Worth Knowing

Ensure proper layering: It’s essential to layer properly to achieve the right texture, with the tater tots on the bottom and the creamy mixture on top.
Watch the baking time: All ovens function differently. Start checking around 40 minutes for that golden top and bubbly edges.
Let it cool slightly: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes before serving helps it hold its shape.
Use quality ingredients: Utilizing high-quality cheese and fresh produce will elevate the flavors significantly.

Tips and Tricks about Cream of Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

Here are some handy tips to ensure your Cream of Chicken Tater Tot Casserole turns out perfectly every time.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat in the oven to bring back the crispiness.
Freezing: You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Pairing: This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness.
Variations: Feel free to add cooked chicken or your favorite vegetables to the mix for added nutrition and flavor.
Presentation: Garnish with extra fresh parsley or even some shredded cheese before serving for a beautiful touch.

Best Served With

Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a complete comfort meal.
Family Gatherings: This dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or casual get-togethers.
Winter Nights: It’s ideal for cozy winter nights when you want something hearty and filling.
Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to three days, and reheat in the oven for best results.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the Cream of Chicken Tater Tot Casserole ahead of time by assembling it and then covering it tightly before refrigerating. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and follow the cooking instructions as usual. This is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings!

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness. The fresh flavors of a salad can complement the creamy base, making for a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.

Definitely! Adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach is a fantastic way to boost the nutrition of your Cream of Chicken Tater Tot Casserole. Just chop them up and mix them in with the creamy mixture before layering. It will not only enhance the flavor but also add some vibrant color.

Store any leftover Cream of Chicken Tater Tot Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it back in the oven until it’s warmed through and the top is crispy again. This way, you can enjoy this delicious dish even after the first serving!

Conclusion

The Cream of Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is truly a dish that embodies comfort food at its finest. Its creamy texture, delightful crunch, and heartwarming flavors make it a perfect meal for any occasion. I encourage you to give it a try; your family will appreciate the effort, and you’ll love how easy it is to make. Don’t be surprised when it becomes a weekly favorite!