Are you craving a crunchy, savory, and utterly addictive snack? Look no further! This Chex Mix recipe with ranch takes the classic party mix to a whole new level of deliciousness. Forget store-bought versions – this homemade recipe is incredibly easy, customizable, and perfect for any occasion, from game day gatherings to quiet nights in. Get ready to experience the best Chex Mix you’ve ever tasted!
Ingredients:
- 6 cups Chex cereal (a mix of Rice Chex, Wheat Chex, and Corn Chex is recommended)
- 1 cup pretzels (sticks or twists)
- 1 cup breadsticks (small, thin ones work best)
- 1 cup salted peanuts
- ½ cup Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
-
Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
-
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the Chex cereal, pretzels, breadsticks, and peanuts. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
-
Create the Ranch Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, ranch seasoning mix, and olive oil until smooth and well combined.
-
Coat the Mix: Pour the ranch mixture over the cereal and snack mix. Stir gently but thoroughly to make sure every piece is coated. Don't be shy with the sauce!
-
Bake to Perfection: Spread the coated mix in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 45-60 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
-
Cool & Enjoy: Once baked, remove the Chex mix from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. This allows the mixture to crisp up further and prevents it from becoming soggy. Once cooled, store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Chex Mix:
- Even Coating: Make sure to toss the mixture thoroughly to ensure every piece is evenly coated with the ranch mixture. This prevents some pieces from being overly crunchy and others soggy.
- Baking Time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your Chex mix while it's baking. Start checking for doneness around the 45-minute mark.
- Storage: Store your Chex mix in an airtight container to maintain its crispness. It will stay fresh for several days, if it lasts that long!
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the ranch mixture for a spicy twist.
- Sweet & Savory: Add a few chocolate chips or dried cranberries for a sweet and salty combination.
- Cheese Lover's Delight: Substitute the ranch seasoning with your favorite cheese powder, like cheddar or parmesan.
- Nut-Free Option: Omit the peanuts and substitute with your favorite other crunchy snack like sunflower seeds or roasted chickpeas.
Nutritional Information (per serving - approximate, may vary based on ingredients):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 10-12g
- Protein: 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This easy Chex Mix recipe with ranch is the perfect addition to your list of quick dinner ideas or healthy meals, making it an ideal homemade cooking project for any skill level. It's a delicious dish everyone will love! Enjoy!