If you are on the hunt for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together bold flavors and irresistible textures, this Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole Recipe has got you covered. Picture tender chunks of chicken tossed in tangy buffalo wing sauce, nestled in a creamy base with sharp cheddar, all crowned with crispy, golden tater tots and a crunchy celery topping. It’s comfort food elevated with a spicy kick, perfect for family dinners, game day, or whenever you want something hearty yet simple. This recipe combines ease and excitement in every bite, making it a soon-to-be favorite in your recipe rotation.

Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun when making a dish this satisfying. Each component in this Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole Recipe plays a crucial role, building layers of flavor and texture that make the casserole so crave-worthy.

3 cups chopped cooked chicken: The star protein that brings hearty goodness and soaks up all the buffalo flavor.
1 (16-oz) container sour cream: Adds creaminess and a subtle tang that balances the spice perfectly.
1 (10.5-oz) can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup: Acts as a luscious binder, keeping everything moist and flavorful.
¼ cup Buffalo Wing Sauce: The key to that signature buffalo heat and zest everyone loves.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey goodness, lending sharp richness and color.
1 (32-oz) bag frozen tater tots: The crunchy topping that crisps up golden for irresistible texture contrast.
½ cup chopped celery: Adds fresh crunch and a refreshing lift to the rich casserole.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick and comes out cleanly when baked.

Step 2: Mix the Savory Filling

In a large bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, buffalo wing sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir them together until the mixture is beautifully creamy and evenly coated in that mouthwatering buffalo sauce.

Step 3: Add the Tater Tots

Gently fold the frozen tater tots into your buffalo chicken mixture. Because they’re frozen, the tater tots will bake up crisp on the outside while remaining tender inside, providing that coveted contrast to the creamy filling.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the chopped celery over the top for a pop of color and fresh crunch. Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes until it’s bubbling hot and the tater tots are golden and crispy.

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or scallions can brighten up the presentation and add a subtle herbal note that complements the buffalo heat beautifully. For the ranch lovers, a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing on top makes a creamy contrast that’s simply divine.

Side Dishes

This casserole packs a punch on its own, but pairing it with a simple green salad or crisp carrot sticks balances the meal nicely while keeping it fresh and light. If you want to go all out, a serving of steamed broccoli or roasted Brussels sprouts adds a wonderful earthy note and additional texture variety.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform this cozy casserole into individual servings by baking it in mini cast iron skillets or oven-safe ramekins—perfect for parties or meal prep. For a fun spin, layer the mixture in a deep-dish pie crust for a buffalo chicken pot pie variation that still highlights all your favorite flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which might be rare because it’s so good), store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep its flavors well and is best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days for optimal freshness and texture.

Freezing

This Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. After baking and cooling completely, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, making it a convenient meal to prepare ahead of time.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm it in a 350-degree oven until heated through and bubbly—usually about 20 minutes. To restore that crispy tater tot topping, you might want to broil it for a minute or two at the end, but watch it closely to avoid burning.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this casserole?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully and saves prep time, adding delicious seasoning to the dish while maintaining great texture.

Is there a way to make this casserole less spicy?

Yes! Simply reduce the amount of buffalo wing sauce or use a mild version. You can also add extra sour cream to mellow the heat without losing flavor.

Can I substitute frozen tater tots with fresh potatoes?

You can, but it’s a bit trickier. Fresh potatoes need to be par-cooked or roasted before adding to ensure they get that crispy top texture that tater tots provide so effortlessly.

What other cheeses can I use instead of cheddar?

Sharp cheddar has the perfect bite, but you can swap in Monterey Jack, pepper jack for extra kick, or even mozzarella if you want a milder, creamier melt.

Is this Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole Recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Definitely! It’s a perfect make-ahead option since it reheats well and keeps the flavors intact, making your weeknight dinners simple and delicious.

Final Thoughts

This Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that feels both indulgent and effortless. Whether you’re feeding family, hosting friends, or just craving something warm and satisfying, it delivers on taste and ease every single time. Don’t wait to give it a try—you might just find a new favorite comfort food that everyone asks for again and again.