Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—warm, creamy, cheesy, and topped with golden tater tots that add a satisfying crunch to every bite. This hearty dish is perfect for feeding a family or a small crowd, and it’s incredibly easy to throw together using simple pantry and freezer staples.
Featuring juicy shredded rotisserie chicken, tender mixed vegetables, and a creamy, flavorful sauce, this casserole delivers a delicious, well-rounded meal in one baking dish. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a potluck favorite, this dish is sure to please.
1. Tater Tot Casserole Recipe
Equipment Needed
To prepare this Tater Tot Casserole, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:
- Large Bowl: For mixing the filling ingredients thoroughly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient portions.
- Baking Dish (9×13 inches): To bake the casserole evenly.
- Spatula: For spreading and layering ingredients smoothly.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to prepare your 8-serving Tater Tot Casserole:
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables, thawed to room temperature
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups Colby Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 (28 oz) package frozen tater tots
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step directions to make a creamy, cheesy, golden-baked Tater Tot Casserole:
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when you finish assembling the casserole.
Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, thawed mixed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, grated parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, dried basil, and black pepper. Stir well until the mixture is evenly blended.
Add Cheese
Fold in 1 cup of the shredded Colby Jack cheese into the mixture. This adds an extra layer of creaminess and flavor.
Layer the Casserole
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish using a spatula.
Top with Tater Tots
Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top of the filling. You can line them up neatly or scatter them for a more rustic look.
Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the tater tots are crisp and golden brown.
Add Remaining Cheese
Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Colby Jack cheese over the top. Return it to the oven for an additional 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set. Serve warm and enjoy!
2. Tips for Perfect Tater Tot Casserole
Thaw Vegetables Properly
Make sure the frozen mixed vegetables are completely thawed. Excess moisture can make the casserole watery.
Use Pre-Cooked Chicken
Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds rich flavor. You can also use leftover roasted or grilled chicken.
Crispy Tater Tots
For extra crispy tots, bake them for 10 minutes on a sheet pan before adding them on top of the casserole.
Cheese Variety
Mixing different cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack can create a more complex flavor profile.
Let It Set Before Serving
Allow the casserole to rest after baking. This helps the texture firm up and makes serving easier.
3. Variations & Substitutes
Ground Beef Version
Swap the rotisserie chicken for cooked ground beef. Brown it with some diced onion for added flavor before mixing it into the filling.
Cream of Mushroom Substitute
Replace cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a different flavor twist.
Vegetarian Option
Omit the chicken and double the vegetables or add plant-based protein like tofu or lentils for a meatless version.
Spicy Kick
Stir in a few tablespoons of diced green chilies or jalapeños to the filling for a spicy version.
Breakfast Style
Add scrambled eggs, cooked sausage, and a sprinkle of breakfast seasoning to create a morning casserole variation.
4. How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Leftover Tater Tot Casserole is just as tasty the next day and makes for a convenient meal prep option.
- Storage: Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the baked casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly with foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20–25 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating a single portion, the microwave works well—just cover and heat on medium power for 2–3 minutes.
Tater Tot Casserole is a family-friendly classic that delivers big flavor with minimal prep. It’s a great way to use leftover chicken and frozen veggies while creating a satisfying one-pan meal.
With endless variations and easy storage options, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. The golden, cheesy top and creamy filling are sure to make this casserole a regular on your dinner table.
