Are you craving a snack that's both ridiculously crunchy and satisfyingly savory? Look no further! This Bugle snack mix recipe is the perfect answer for movie nights, game days, or any time you need a delicious and easy treat. It's a simple recipe that delivers big on flavor, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. Homemade cooking doesn't get much easier than this, and the result is a delicious dish that's sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Bugles corn chips (original or your favorite flavor)
- 1 cup pretzels (twists or sticks)
- 1/2 cup mixed nuts (salted or unsalted)
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. This is a crucial step for achieving perfectly crisp results.
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Combine the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the Bugles, pretzels, mixed nuts, sesame seeds, and sunflower seeds. Give it a good toss to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
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Prepare the seasoning: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This simple mixture adds a depth of flavor that elevates the snack mix.
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Coat the snack mix: Pour the seasoning mixture over the dry ingredients and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Make sure all the chips and nuts are well-seasoned for consistent flavor.
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Bake: Spread the coated snack mix in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Baking it in a single layer ensures even cooking and prevents burning. Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
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Cool and enjoy: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the snack mix cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring it to an airtight container. This allows the snack mix to crisp up further and prevents it from becoming soggy.
Cooking Tips for the Best Bugle Snack Mix:
- For extra flavor: Experiment with different seasonings! Consider adding chili powder, cumin, or even a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Nut allergies: Substitute the mixed nuts with more pretzels, seeds, or even dried fruit like cranberries or chopped apricots for a delightful variation.
- Make it ahead: This snack mix can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. It's even better the next day!
Variations:
- Sweet and Savory: Add a touch of sweetness by incorporating a tablespoon of brown sugar or maple syrup to the seasoning mixture.
- Spicy Snack Mix: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy twist.
- Cheesy Bugle Mix: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy, crunchy delight.
Nutritional Information (per serving - approximate, will vary based on ingredients used):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This Bugle snack mix recipe is a perfect example of delicious, quick dinner ideas or a satisfying afternoon snack. It's easy to customize to your liking, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing treat. Enjoy!