Loaded Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

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Buffalo chicken Totchos is a tantalizing twist on classic comfort food, combining the bold flavors of buffalo chicken wings with the crispy goodness of tater tots. This indulgent dish is a celebration of culinary diversity, drawing inspiration from American comfort food and Mexican street food. It’s a perfect party appetizer or a hearty weeknight meal that’s sure to satisfy any craving.

Ingredients:

1 pound ground chicken

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Sauce
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 bag (32 ounces) frozen tater tots
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

  • Best Damn Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole
    Best Damn Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

    Image Source: exactdn.com

    Preparation:

    1. Cook the Chicken:

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add ground chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
  • Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
  • Drain off any excess grease.

  • 2. Make the Buffalo Sauce:

  • In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
  • Stir in Frank’s RedHot Sauce until well combined.

  • 3. Assemble the Totchos:

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Spread tater tots in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
  • Remove from oven and top with cooked chicken, buffalo sauce, cheddar cheese, and blue cheese.
  • Return to oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

  • 4. Serve:

  • Garnish with green onions and cilantro.
  • Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch or blue cheese dressing.

  • Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes

    Serving Ideas:

  • Elevated Appetizer: Serve as individual portions in small cast iron skillets.
  • Family-Style Meal: Present on a large platter, allowing guests to customize their own servings.
  • Game Day Snack: Perfect for tailgating or watching the big game.

  • Cultural Influences:
    This dish is a fusion of American and Mexican culinary traditions. The buffalo chicken, a classic American comfort food, is paired with the Mexican-inspired concept of “tater tot nachos.” By combining these two distinct flavors, we create a truly unique and satisfying dish.

    The bold flavors of buffalo chicken, the crispy texture of tater tots, and the creamy richness of cheese create a symphony of taste that is both comforting and exciting. This dish is a testament to the power of culinary fusion, where different cultures and traditions come together to create something truly special.