Bake the tater tots until they're really golden and crispy before any toppings go on. If they're still soft, the cheese, bacon and sour cream make them even softer.
Add the sour cream and ranch after the cheese and bacon layer comes out of the oven.
Use a 1-ounce packet of dry ranch seasoning mix. I haven't tested this recipe with bottled ranch dressing.
Storage:
Totchos are best eaten right away. Once they're assembled and refrigerated, the sour cream and toppings soften the tater tots and they lose their crispy texture, so I don't plan on leftovers.