When I want a comforting casserole with creamy richness and crispy, golden topping, I make this chicken Alfredo tater tot casserole. It combines tender chicken, a velvety Alfredo sauce, and layers of crispy tater tots all baked into one dish that’s hearty, family-friendly, and absolutely satisfying. It’s a weeknight win and a potluck favorite in one.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this casserole because it delivers all the cozy, creamy goodness of Alfredo pasta, but with the fun crunch of tater tots on top. It’s super easy to put together with pantry staples and leftover chicken, and it bakes into a bubbly, golden masterpiece that everyone digs into. I also like how versatile it is—I can mix in veggies, change the cheese, or swap the protein to suit whatever I have on hand.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Cooked, shredded chicken
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Frozen tater tots
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Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
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Sour cream
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Garlic powder
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Onion powder
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Salt and black pepper
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Shredded mozzarella cheese
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Grated Parmesan cheese
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Optional: frozen peas, broccoli, or spinach for added veggies
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Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions
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I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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In a large bowl, I mix the Alfredo sauce, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, shredded chicken, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
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I stir in any optional vegetables I’m using, like frozen peas or chopped broccoli.
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I pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
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I arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top.
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I sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the tater tots.
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I bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the tater tots are crispy and golden.
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I let it cool for a few minutes before serving, then garnish with fresh parsley if I have some on hand.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6 to 8 people.
Prep time is about 10 minutes, bake time is 35–40 minutes, and total time comes in just under 1 hour.
Variations
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For more veggies, I add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or a frozen veggie blend.
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If I want a cheesy twist, I mix cheddar or a cheese blend into the sauce.
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I’ve used a homemade Alfredo sauce with garlic and cream when I want to keep it fully from scratch.
Storage/reheating
I store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, covered tightly. To reheat, I use the oven at 350°F for about 15–20 minutes or microwave individual servings until hot. If the top softens, I pop it under the broiler for a minute or two to get the crisp back. I don’t recommend freezing this casserole after baking—it changes the texture of the tots.
FAQs
Can I use raw chicken?
No, I always use pre-cooked chicken to ensure even baking and food safety. Rotisserie or leftover chicken works perfectly.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, I assemble it a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate until ready to bake. I add 5–10 minutes to the baking time if it’s going in cold.
What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
I like mozzarella for its meltiness, but I’ve also used Monterey Jack or a cheddar blend with great results.
Can I use homemade Alfredo sauce?
Definitely. I make mine with butter, garlic, cream, and Parmesan if I want a fresher taste or control the ingredients.
How do I keep the tater tots crispy?
I bake uncovered and make sure the tots are in a single, even layer. A final broil also helps crisp them up right before serving.
Conclusion
Chicken Alfredo tater tot casserole is one of those cozy dishes I turn to when I want easy comfort food that pleases everyone. It’s creamy, cheesy, and crisp all at once—and I love how simple it is to make with just a few ingredients. Whether it’s for a casual weeknight or a crowd-pleasing potluck, this casserole is always a hit.
Print
Chicken Alfredo Tater Tot Casserole: A Creamy, Crispy Twist on Comfort Food
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Category: Dinner, Main Dish, Casserole
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Chicken Alfredo Tater Tot Casserole is a creamy, cheesy comfort food dish featuring shredded chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and a crispy golden tater tot topping. Baked into bubbly perfection, this easy weeknight dinner or potluck favorite is hearty, kid-approved, and packed with satisfying texture and flavor.
Ingredients
- Cooked, shredded chicken
- Frozen tater tots
- Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Sour cream
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and black pepper
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: frozen peas, chopped broccoli, or spinach
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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In a large bowl, mix Alfredo sauce, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, chicken, and half the mozzarella.
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Stir in optional vegetables, if using.
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Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
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Arrange tater tots in a single layer over the top.
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Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the tots.
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Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
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Cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Notes
- Add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or a frozen mix.
- Use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend for variety.
- Homemade Alfredo sauce gives a fresher flavor.
- Broil briefly at the end to crisp the tater tots more.
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