Are you looking for a ridiculously easy and insanely delicious snack to whip up for your next gathering? Or perhaps you just need a satisfying treat to enjoy while binge-watching your favorite show? Look no further! This Chex Party Mix oven recipe is the answer to your snacking prayers. It's a classic for a reason – perfectly crunchy, savory, and sweet, this homemade party mix is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Forget store-bought mixes; this recipe is simple, customizable, and infinitely better! Let's get started on this easy recipe for a healthy and delicious snack.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups Chex cereal (Rice Chex, Corn Chex, or a combination)
- 1 cup pretzels (sticks or twists)
- 1 cup mixed nuts (your favorites – peanuts, cashews, almonds, etc.)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra savory flavor)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This is a crucial step for quick dinner ideas that avoid messy ovens.
Mix it Up:
- In a large bowl, combine the Chex cereal, pretzels, and mixed nuts. Give it a good toss to distribute everything evenly.
The Sauce Magic:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. If using, stir in the Parmesan cheese.
Coat and Bake:
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Pour the sauce mixture over the cereal and nut mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated. This is where the magic of homemade cooking truly shines!
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Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even baking and optimal crunch.
Bake to Perfection:
- Bake for 45-60 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes, until the Chex mix is golden brown and perfectly crispy. Keep a close eye on it towards the end to prevent burning.
Cool and Enjoy:
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the Chex mix cool completely on the baking sheet. This allows the flavors to meld and the mix to crisp up further. Once cooled, store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Chex Mix:
- Customize it: Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts, pretzels, and even add in some dried fruit like cranberries or chopped candy pieces for a sweeter twist!
- Even Coating: Make sure to toss the cereal mixture well to achieve an even coating of the sauce. This ensures every piece is perfectly seasoned and delicious.
- Don't Overbake: Keep a close eye on the Chex mix while it's baking to avoid burning. The stirring every 15 minutes helps ensure even browning and prevents sticking.
- Storage: Store your Chex party mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Variations:
- Spicy Chex Mix: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a spicy kick.
- Sweet and Savory Chex Mix: Add 1/4 cup of brown sugar to the sauce mixture for a delicious sweet and savory combination.
- Chocolate Chex Mix: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the mixture before baking for a decadent twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving - approximate, varies based on ingredients):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This easy recipe provides delicious and healthy meals, perfect for quick dinner ideas and satisfying snacks. Enjoy your homemade Chex party mix!