Ranch Chex Mix Snack Recipe

If you are on the hunt for an irresistibly crunchy and savory snack that bursts with flavor, look no further than the Ranch Chex Mix Snack. This delightful mix combines the best of crunchy cereals, nuts, pretzels, and crackers all coated in a perfect blend of ranch seasoning and Parmesan cheese. Whether you need a quick nibble for movie night, a party treat, or just a satisfying munch, this Ranch Chex Mix Snack is sure to become your go-to recipe. It’s easy, tasty, and wonderfully addictive, making snack time a joyful experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Ranch Chex Mix Snack recipe is all about simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully. Each component adds its own unique texture and flavor, crafting a mix that’s crunchy, cheesy, and delightfully savory.

• Rice cereal (5 cups): The crunchy base that gives the mix a light, crisp texture without overpowering other flavors.
• Cashews or cocktail mix peanuts (2 cups): Adds a rich, nutty flavor and satisfying crunch to balance the savory elements.
• Pretzels (5 cups): Salted pretzels contribute a delightful saltiness and crunch, enhancing the overall snack experience.
• Cheese crackers (3 cups): Packed with cheesy goodness, these crackers add depth and a rich flavor component.
• Oyster crackers (2 cups): Small yet crispy, they offer a delicate crunch that perfectly complements the other bigger morsels.
• Unsalted butter, melted (4 1/2 tablespoons): A smooth binder that coats everything evenly and adds a luxurious mouthfeel.
• Ranch seasoning dry powder (1 ounce): The signature blend that brings the snack’s bright and tangy ranch flavor.
• Mustard powder (2 teaspoons): Enhances the ranch seasoning with a subtle kick and a hint of warmth.
• Grated Parmesan (1/4 cup): Adds a salty, umami-rich depth that boosts the overall savoriness.
• Dried parsley flakes (1/2 tablespoon): For a fresh color pop and gentle herbal highlight.

How to Make Ranch Chex Mix Snack

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a large rimmed jelly roll pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Setting the oven temperature early lets you jump straight into combining your ingredients without delay.

Step 2: Combine the Crunchy Mix

Grab an extra-large mixing bowl and pour in the rice cereal, cashews or peanuts, pretzels, cheese crackers, and oyster crackers. These ingredients form the heart of your Ranch Chex Mix Snack and tossing them gently with large slotted spoons ensures they’re evenly blended without crushing the delicate cereal pieces.

Step 3: Coat with Butter and Spices

Melt your unsalted butter in the microwave, making sure it’s fully liquid but not overheated. Drizzle this over your crunchy mix and toss gently to coat every piece. Next, combine your ranch seasoning powder, mustard powder, grated Parmesan, and dried parsley flakes in a small bowl, then sprinkle this flavorful blend over the mix. Toss again to create a full, even coating of that glorious Ranch Chex Mix Snack flavor.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Spread the mixture evenly on your prepared pan and pop it into the oven. Bake for 30 minutes, giving the mix a good toss halfway through to ensure even baking and toasting. The gentle heat perfectly crisps the mix while melding all those incredible flavors together.

Step 5: Cool and Store

After baking, take your pan out and let the Ranch Chex Mix Snack cool completely on the counter. This crucial step locks in crunch and flavor. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container to keep the snack fresh and ready to enjoy.

How to Serve Ranch Chex Mix Snack

Garnishes

While the Ranch Chex Mix Snack is delicious on its own, adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or extra dried parsley right before serving can brighten the dish with a touch of vibrancy and fresh aroma. A light dusting of extra Parmesan can heighten the cheesiness if you’re feeling indulgent.

Side Dishes

This snack pairs wonderfully with chilled beverages like a crisp lager or sparkling lemonade. If you’re planning a party spread, serve alongside creamy dips or fresh vegetable platters to balance the savory crunch with refreshing bites.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Ranch Chex Mix Snack in decorative bowls or mason jars to make grabbing handfuls easy at casual gatherings. You can even package small portions in cute paper cones or clear cellophane bags tied with a ribbon as delightful edible gifts or party favors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Ranch Chex Mix Snack fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay crunchy and delicious for up to two weeks, making it a perfect make-ahead snack to grab whenever cravings strike.

Freezing

If you want to preserve it longer, you can freeze the mix in a sealed freezer bag for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving, and toss gently to revive its crispiness.

Reheating

To refresh the crunch, spread the Ranch Chex Mix Snack on a baking sheet and warm it in a 250-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 10 minutes. This quick reheat brings back the fresh-out-of-the-oven goodness without drying it out.

FAQs

Can I substitute the nuts in the Ranch Chex Mix Snack?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap cashews or peanuts for almonds, pecans, or even sunflower seeds. Just choose what you love or have on hand to keep that fantastic crunch and nutty flavor.

Is this snack gluten-free?

The traditional recipe includes oyster crackers and some cereals that may contain gluten, so it’s not inherently gluten-free. However, you can use gluten-free versions of the crackers and cereals to make a gluten-free Ranch Chex Mix Snack.

How spicy is the Ranch Chex Mix Snack?

This snack leans more into tangy and savory flavors rather than spicy heat. The mustard powder adds a subtle warmth, but the overall profile is mild and family-friendly.

Can I make this Ranch Chex Mix Snack vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a vegan ranch seasoning or make your own blend without dairy. You may also want to omit the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese powder.

What’s the best way to keep the mix crunchy?

Storing the mix in an airtight container away from humidity is key to preserving its crunch. Avoid refrigeration as moisture can make the mix soggy over time.

Final Thoughts

This Ranch Chex Mix Snack truly brings a world of flavor and texture to your snack lineup with minimal effort. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again, whether for a quick bite or to impress friends at your next gathering. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your snack arsenal!

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