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There’s something magical about the combination of buffalo chicken and cheesy tater tots—it’s a flavor-packed, comforting meal that hits all the right notes! Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or just love easy, crowd-pleasing dinners, this Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is a must-try. Perfect for game day, busy weeknights, or any time you’re craving a little comfort in casserole form. Plus, who doesn’t love a recipe that combines crispy tater tots with tangy buffalo chicken? Trust me, your taste buds are in for a treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Bold flavors: The spicy buffalo sauce pairs beautifully with creamy ranch and gooey cheese.

Comfort food at its finest: The crispy tater tots and melty cheese add a layer of coziness.
Super easy: Minimal prep and just a handful of ingredients make this casserole a breeze.
Versatile: You can easily adjust the spice level or customize the ingredients to suit your taste.

Taste Description

This dish delivers a spicy kick with the buffalo sauce, balanced by the richness of cheese and the crispy texture of tater tots. The tender shredded chicken absorbs all the flavors, making each bite irresistibly delicious. The optional ranch dressing adds a cool, creamy contrast that rounds out the dish perfectly.

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (leftovers work great!)
1 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to your spice preference)

2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
½ cup ranch dressing (optional, for drizzling)

Tools You’ll Need:

Large mixing bowl
9×13 inch baking dish
Measuring cups

Spatula or large spoon
Oven mitts

Step-by-Step: How to Make Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it ready for baking.

Step 2: Prep the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken with the buffalo sauce. Make sure the chicken is fully coated in that spicy goodness.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Grease your 9×13 inch baking dish, then spread the buffalo chicken mixture evenly along the bottom. Top with a layer of frozen tater tots—make sure they cover the chicken completely. Next, generously sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top.

Step 4: Bake It!

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy. The cheese should be melted and bubbling, making your kitchen smell amazing!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

If you like, drizzle some ranch dressing over the casserole just before serving. This adds a nice cool contrast to the spicy buffalo sauce.

What to Serve With Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole:

This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, but you can pair it with a few sides for a complete meal:

A crisp side salad: The fresh veggies and tangy dressing offer a nice contrast.

Steamed veggies: Broccoli or green beans are great for a light, healthy addition.
Garlic bread: To soak up all the cheesy, saucy goodness!

Tips for Perfect Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

Make it your own: If you prefer a milder dish, use less buffalo sauce or swap it for BBQ sauce for a sweeter twist.

Add more flavor: Toss in some bacon bits or diced green onions for an extra flavor boost.
Adjust the cheese: Use any kind of cheese you love—pepper jack for extra spice, or Monterey Jack for creaminess.
Make ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

Storage Instructions

In the fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
In the freezer: If you want to freeze the casserole, it’s best to do so before baking. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as instructed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred it and mix it with the buffalo sauce.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

You sure can! Swap the chicken for a plant-based meat alternative or roasted veggies like cauliflower for a delicious vegetarian version.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

To keep the tater tots crispy, reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. If you’re in a rush, microwaving works too, but the tots won’t be as crispy.

How spicy is this dish?

It depends on the buffalo sauce you choose! You can control the heat by using a mild or medium sauce, or go all-in with a spicier one if you’re a heat-seeker.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is everything you want in a comforting meal—easy, cheesy, spicy, and seriously delicious. Whether you’re whipping this up for a family dinner or serving it at your next game day party, it’s sure to be a hit! If you’re craving more comfort food like this, check out my other recipes featuring buffalo chicken or tater tots. They never disappoint!

For more classic recipes like this, check out my Chicken Pot Pie Pasta, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, or even indulge your sweet tooth with some Old School Chicken Noodle Casserole.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: ~380

Protein: 23g
Carbs: 32g
Fat: 18g

Don’t Forget!

If you try this recipe, I’d love to see your photos! Be sure to leave a review below or share your creations with me on Pinterest. Your feedback and creativity mean the world to me!