Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole Recipe with Cheesy Buffalo Sauce

This Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that comes together with just a few pantry staples. Creamy shredded chicken is tossed with tangy sour cream, ranch dressing and zesty buffalo sauce, then topped with a layer of crispy tater tots and melted cheddar for a satisfying one-dish dinner.

Perfect for busy weeknights, the casserole is simple to prepare and easy to customize. Adjust the heat to suit your family, add vegetables for extra nutrition, or top with blue cheese and green onions for more bold flavor.

I make this recipe often because it checks so many boxes: creamy, cheesy, a little spicy and completely satisfying. It’s also forgiving—use rotisserie chicken to save time or shred leftover cooked chicken.

The method is straightforward: mix the filling, spread it in a baking dish, top with frozen tater tots and extra cheese, then bake until bubbly and golden. Serve with ranch or extra buffalo sauce on the side so everyone can customize their plate.

Ingredient Notes

See the printable recipe card below for exact measurements and full instructions.

• Chicken – Shredded cooked chicken is the base. Rotisserie chicken is a quick option, or use leftover roasted or poached chicken.
• Tater Tots – Frozen tater tots create a golden, crispy topping without extra work.
• Sour Cream – Adds tang and creaminess to the buffalo chicken mixture.
• Cheddar Cheese – Use freshly shredded sharp cheddar for the best melt and flavor; reserve some cheese to sprinkle on top.
• Buffalo Sauce – Provides the spicy, vinegary kick. Choose one with the heat level you prefer.
• Ranch Dressing – Balances the heat and contributes to a creamy texture.

How To Make Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.

In a large bowl, combine 2 cups shredded cooked chicken, 8 ounces sour cream, 1/3 cup buffalo sauce, 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, and 1/4 cup ranch dressing. Stir until the mixture is evenly combined.

Spread the buffalo chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the filling, then sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar over the tots.

Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the tater tots are golden brown and crisp. Let the casserole rest 5 minutes before serving. If you want extra browning, broil for 2–3 minutes while watching carefully so it doesn’t burn.

Substitutions and Variations

• Add veggies. Stir in sautéed onions, celery, carrots, bell peppers or spinach for color and nutrients.
• Change the cheese. Swap some cheddar for pepper jack or crumble blue cheese on top for a sharper bite.
• Spice it up. Use a hotter buffalo sauce, add cayenne or diced jalapeños, or finish with a drizzle of hot sauce.
• Make it loaded. Mix crumbled bacon and sliced green onions into the filling and finish with blue cheese crumbles for a loaded version.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Freezing

Make Ahead – You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate; add a few extra minutes to baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Store – Leftovers keep 3–4 days in the refrigerator. Cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly before refrigerating.

Freeze – The casserole freezes well. Cool completely, portion and freeze on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

This Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is an easy, flavorful recipe that’s likely to become a family favorite. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a reliable go-to for busy nights and casual gatherings.