Ranch Chex Mix Snack Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself craving a snack that hits every note—salty, crunchy, cheesy, and full of that signature tangy ranch flavor—you are going to adore this Ranch Chex Mix Snack. It’s a vibrant medley of Rice Chex cereal, pretzels, nuts, and a variety of crackers all coated in a buttery, savory ranch seasoning blend and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or whenever the snack attack strikes, this mix never disappoints and always disappears fast!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Ranch Chex Mix Snack is a wonderful example of how simple pantry staples can come together to create something truly special. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—from the crunch of the Rice Chex cereal and pretzels to the rich depth of melted butter carrying the bold ranch seasoning. Here’s what you’ll gather before you get started:

• 5 cups Rice Chex cereal: The light, crispy base that’s key to that addictive crunch.
• 2 cups cashews or cocktail mix peanuts: Adds protein and a buttery bite to the mix.
• 5 cups pretzels: Delivers a satisfying salty snap.
• 3 cups cheese crackers: Brings cheesy flavor and extra texture.
• 2 cups oyster crackers: Small but mighty, soaking up the seasoning beautifully.
• 4 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: The glue that binds all those flavors together.
• 1 ounce ranch seasoning dry powder: The star of the flavor show, providing that classic ranch tang.
• 2 teaspoons mustard powder: Adds a subtle kick to deepen the flavor profile.
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan: Gives a savory, slightly nutty cheese boost.
• 1/2 tablespoon dried parsley flakes: For a pop of herby freshness and color.

How to Make Ranch Chex Mix Snack

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by heating your oven to 300 degrees F. Line a large rimmed jelly roll pan with parchment paper to keep your mix from sticking and to make cleanup a breeze. This setup is crucial for baking your snack evenly and crisping it just right.

Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients

In an extra-large mixing bowl, toss together the Rice Chex cereal, nuts, pretzels, cheese crackers, and oyster crackers. This mix of textures sets the foundation for your Ranch Chex Mix Snack, so be sure to use a big bowl to toss comfortably without crushing those delicate crackers.

Step 3: Add the Butter

Melt your butter in the microwave until just liquefied, then pour it evenly over the crunchy ingredients. Gently toss everything together with large slotted spoons or clean hands so each piece gets a light coating that will help hold the seasonings.

Step 4: Mix and Sprinkle the Seasonings

Combine the ranch seasoning powder, mustard powder, parmesan, and dried parsley flakes in a small bowl. Sprinkle this flavorful mixture over your coated snack bowl and toss gently once more, ensuring every bite will be flavorful and delicious.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Spread the Ranch Chex Mix Snack evenly on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 30 minutes, tossing the mix halfway through to keep everything crisping evenly. Once golden and fragrant, remove from the oven and let cool completely before serving or storing.

How to Serve Ranch Chex Mix Snack

Garnishes

While the Ranch Chex Mix Snack is fantastic as-is, a light sprinkle of extra parmesan or a dash of chopped fresh parsley just before serving can add a pop of color and a hint of brightness that’s eye-catching and delicious.

Side Dishes

This snack pairs wonderfully with creamy dips like ranch or blue cheese dressing, or alongside chilled beverages such as lemonade, iced tea, or a crisp beer. It’s perfect for casual gatherings or as a tasty companion during game day festivities.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Ranch Chex Mix Snack in a large rustic bowl surrounded by small ramekins filled with different nuts or olives for a party platter. Or layer it in mason jars for grab-and-go snack gifts that will surely impress friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your Ranch Chex Mix Snack has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh and crunchy for up to a week—perfect for snacking throughout the week without losing that satisfying crunch.

Freezing

If you want to make this snack well in advance, it freezes beautifully. Place cooled Ranch Chex Mix Snack in a freezer-safe container or bag, sealing tightly to avoid moisture. Thaw at room temperature and give it a quick toss before serving.

Reheating

To revive any loss of crispness after storage, spread the snack on a baking sheet and warm it in a 250-degree F oven for 5 to 10 minutes. This gentle reheating brings back that fresh-out-of-the-oven crunch without drying out the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use other types of nuts besides cashews or peanuts?

Absolutely! Almonds, pecans, or even walnuts can work nicely and add their own unique flavor to the Ranch Chex Mix Snack. Just be sure to use unsalted nuts if you want to control the saltiness.

Is this snack gluten-free?

Many of the ingredients like Rice Chex and nuts are naturally gluten-free, but some pretzels and crackers may contain gluten. Check your packages or choose gluten-free options if needed to make the snack safe for gluten-sensitive friends.

How spicy is the Ranch Chex Mix Snack?

This snack is mild with classic ranch seasoning flavor—tangy and savory rather than spicy. If you want a little kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the seasoning mix before tossing.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter or oil and swap the parmesan for a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for that cheesy note. The flavor will still be delightful!

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

Storing your Ranch Chex Mix Snack in an airtight container at room temperature is key to maintaining its crunch. Avoid any moisture exposure, and if the mix softens, give it a quick re-toast in the oven to bring back its crispness.

Final Thoughts

This Ranch Chex Mix Snack is a simple yet irresistible treat that will quickly become your go-to for all kinds of occasions. Once you make this blend of crunchy textures and zesty ranch goodness, sharing it will feel like sharing a little piece of happiness. I can’t wait for you to try it and watch it become a family favorite, just like it is in my house!

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