Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

Introduction

If there’s a recipe that screams comfort food, it’s this Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole. Imagine tender, shredded chicken mixed with creamy sour cream, zesty buffalo sauce, melted cheddar cheese, and perfectly crispy tater tots finished off with a little crunch of fresh celery. This casserole is hearty, indulgent, and incredibly easy to make, making it a go-to dish for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or watching the big game.

What makes this dish truly special is its simplicity and versatility. You can assemble it ahead of time and bake it fresh, or freeze it for a convenient meal later. Using a rotisserie chicken keeps prep fast, while the buffalo sauce gives the casserole that irresistible kick everyone loves. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and spicy flavors in one satisfying dish.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating your family, this Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole delivers flavor and comfort in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare with minimal effort
• Crowd-pleasing flavor with a spicy buffalo twist
• One-dish meal that combines protein, cheese, and tater tots
• Make-ahead friendly—assemble in advance or freeze for later
• Versatile for game days, potlucks, or family dinners
• Gluten-free option available using gluten-free cream of chicken soup

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe makes 8 servings. All measurements are exact to ensure perfect results.

Main Ingredients

• 3 cups chopped cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works best)
• 1 (16-oz) container sour cream
• 1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup
• ¼ cup Buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 (32-oz) bag frozen tater tots
• ½ cup chopped celery

Tools & Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• 8-quart mixing bowl
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Vegetable chopper (optional, for celery)
• Rotary cheese grater (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooking spray

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these instructions to make this Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole exactly as intended.

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Chicken and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, buffalo wing sauce, and 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently to fully combine.

Step 3: Add the Tater Tots

Fold the frozen tater tots into the mixture. There’s no need to thaw them first—they’ll cook perfectly in the casserole.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Evenly distribute the mixture so that the tater tots sit on top. Sprinkle the ½ cup chopped celery over the top for added crunch and color.

Step 5: Bake

Bake the casserole for 40–45 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on the edges. The tater tots should be cooked through and slightly crisp on top.

Tips & Variations

Make-Ahead Options

• Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate until ready to bake.
• Freeze the assembled casserole for later use. To bake after freezing, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F for 30–40 minutes, covered.

Flavor Adjustments

• Spiciness: Increase or decrease buffalo sauce depending on your preferred heat level.
• Cheese: Swap cheddar for pepper jack for an extra kick or use a cheese blend for more depth.
• Protein: Substitute shredded rotisserie chicken with leftover cooked chicken or even turkey.

Dietary Adjustments

• Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup for a gluten-free dish.
• Control sodium by using unsalted soup and adjusting seasoning to taste.

Flavor Profile & Texture

This casserole hits all the comfort food notes. The chicken is tender and flavorful, the sauce is creamy with a bold buffalo kick, and the tater tots provide a perfect crispy contrast. The chopped celery adds freshness and crunch, balancing the richness of the cheese and sauce.

The flavor is tangy, cheesy, and slightly spicy—a combination that appeals to both kids and adults.

Nutritional Overview

Estimated per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: ~450 kcal
• Protein: ~25 g
• Carbohydrates: ~30 g
• Fat: ~24 g
• Fiber: ~2 g

Note: Nutrition info is an estimate and does not include optional toppings.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prepare the entire casserole in advance and refrigerate overnight for convenience.
• Assemble and freeze for long-term storage; thaw before baking.
• Leftovers reheat well in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Yes. Cook and chop chicken before mixing with the other ingredients.

Do I need to thaw the tater tots?

No. They cook perfectly from frozen in the casserole.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes. Use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Can I increase the spice level?

Absolutely. Add more buffalo sauce to taste.

Can this be made vegetarian?

You can substitute the chicken with cooked cauliflower or chickpeas and use vegetarian cream of chicken soup.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Stage	Time
Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	40–45 minutes
Total Time	50 minutes

Serving Suggestions

Serve hot from the oven as a main dish. Pair with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. Perfect for casual gatherings, game nights, or family dinners.

Recipe Variations

1. Extra Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Casserole – Sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top before baking.
2. Loaded Veggie Version – Add bell peppers, onions, or corn to the mixture.
3. Spicy Kick – Use extra hot buffalo sauce or mix in chopped jalapeños.
4. Individual Servings – Use small ramekins or mini casserole dishes for personal portions.

Ingredient Spotlight

Buffalo Wing Sauce

Buffalo sauce is the heart of this recipe. Its balance of heat and tang provides the signature flavor, elevating the creamy base of sour cream and soup.

Tater Tots

Frozen tater tots make this dish easy and kid-friendly. They cook straight from frozen, forming a crispy, golden topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Use unsalted cream of chicken soup to control the sodium.
• Mix gently to avoid breaking up the tater tots before baking.
• Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving for easier slicing and serving.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Assemble and freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450 kcal
Protein	25 g
Carbohydrates	30 g
Fat	24 g
Fiber	2 g

Expanded Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is comfort food at its finest: creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy with a satisfying crunch. It’s easy to assemble, versatile, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks, game days, or busy weeknight dinners.

With the ability to make ahead, freeze, and customize, this casserole is as practical as it is delicious. Try it once, and it’s likely to become a staple in your recipe rotation, winning over family and friends every time.

Print