Ranch Chex Mix Snack

This Ranch Chex Mix is a savory, crunchy, and flavorful snack that’s perfect for parties, game day gatherings, or simply satisfying a snack craving. With a combination of crispy rice cereal, pretzels, cheese crackers, and nuts, all coated in a ranch seasoning blend, this mix is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal prep.
• Perfect for Sharing: A large batch makes it ideal for gatherings and parties.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and store for up to a week.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Rice cereal (e.g., Rice Chex) – 5 cups
• Cashews or cocktail peanuts – 2 cups
• Pretzels – 5 cups
• Cheese crackers – 3 cups
• Oyster crackers – 2 cups
• Unsalted butter, melted – 4½ tablespoons
• Ranch seasoning dry powder – 1 ounce (about 2 tablespoons)
• Mustard powder – 2 teaspoons
• Grated Parmesan – ¼ cup
• Dried parsley flakes – ½ tablespoon

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Line a large rimmed baking sheet (jelly roll pan) with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Combine the Mix-Ins

1. In an extra-large mixing bowl, combine rice cereal, peanuts, pretzels, cheese crackers, and oyster crackers.
2. Toss gently using large slotted spoons to distribute the ingredients evenly.

Step 3: Prepare the Coating

1. Melt the butter in the microwave or on the stovetop.
2. In a small bowl, mix ranch seasoning powder, mustard powder, grated Parmesan, and dried parsley flakes.

Step 4: Coat the Mix

1. Pour the melted butter over the cereal mixture in the bowl, tossing gently to coat evenly.
2. Sprinkle the seasoning blend over the mixture, and toss again to ensure everything is well coated.

Step 5: Bake

1. Spread the coated mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, tossing halfway through to ensure even baking.

Step 6: Cool and Store

1. Remove the pan from the oven and allow the mix to cool completely on the baking sheet.
2. Transfer to an airtight container for storage or serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 20 servings (approximately ½ cup each)
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Mix: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the butter mixture for a kick of heat.
• Sweet and Savory: Toss in some dried cranberries or raisins after baking for a sweet contrast.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free rice cereal, pretzels, and crackers to make the mix celiac-friendly.
• Cheesy Boost: Double the Parmesan or add cheddar powder for an extra cheesy flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Place the cooled mix in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of nuts?

Yes, almonds, pecans, or walnuts work well in place of cashews or peanuts.

2. What if I don’t have ranch seasoning?

You can make a homemade blend using dried parsley, dill, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt.

3. Can I make this mix in the microwave?

Yes, microwave the coated mixture in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute increments, stirring each time, for a total of about 5 minutes.

4. Can I omit the butter?

Butter adds richness and helps the seasoning stick, but you can reduce or replace it with olive oil for a lighter option.

5. Can I add candy or chocolate?

Yes, but add them after the mix has cooled to prevent melting.

6. How do I prevent the mix from getting soggy?

Ensure the mix is spread out evenly on the baking sheet and toss halfway through baking for even drying.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use multiple baking sheets to ensure even baking.

8. How can I make this mix nut-free?

Omit the nuts and replace them with extra crackers or pretzels.

9. What can I use instead of oyster crackers?

Goldfish crackers or small breadstick crackers are great substitutes.

10. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! Adjust the seasonings to suit their preferences, like reducing the mustard powder for a milder flavor.

Conclusion

Ranch Chex Mix Snack is the ultimate party favorite, combining crispy, savory, and cheesy flavors in every bite. Perfect for game days, picnics, or anytime snacking, this easy-to-make recipe is endlessly customizable to suit your taste. Whip up a batch today and watch it disappear in no time!

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