Are you looking for a quick and easy snack recipe that's bursting with flavor? Look no further! This hot and spicy Chex Mix is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for game day, parties, or a cozy night in. It's incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less effort, making it one of the best recipes for even the busiest cooks. Get ready to experience a delicious explosion of sweet, salty, and spicy goodness in every single bite! This recipe is a guaranteed hit, offering a fantastic blend of textures and tastes that will leave everyone wanting more. It's the epitome of homemade cooking done right!
Ingredients:
- 6 cups Chex cereal (Rice, Corn, or a mix)
- 1 cup pretzels (sticks or twists)
- 1 cup mixed nuts (your favorite – peanuts, cashews, almonds)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: 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 ensuring even cooking and preventing sticking.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the Chex cereal, pretzels, and mixed nuts. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
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Make the Flavor Bomb: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful mixture is the key to this recipe's success!
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Coat the Mix: Pour the butter mixture over the cereal mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated. Make sure each piece is nicely saturated for optimal flavor and crispiness. This is where you can adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level.
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Bake to Perfection: Spread the coated Chex mix in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 40-45 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
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Cool & Enjoy: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the Chex mix cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This allows the flavors to meld and the mix to remain delightfully crunchy.
Tips for the Best Hot and Spicy Chex Mix:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. Start with less and add more if you prefer a spicier mix. For a milder version, omit the cayenne altogether.
- Nut Selection: Feel free to use your favorite nuts or a combination of nuts. Seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds also work wonderfully.
- Variations: Add other seasonings like smoked paprika, cumin, or even a touch of brown sugar for a sweet and spicy kick.
- Make it Ahead: This Chex mix can be made ahead of time and stored for up to a week in an airtight container.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 150-200 (depending on ingredients)
- Fat: 8-12g
- Protein: 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This delicious and easy Chex mix recipe is perfect for satisfying those salty and spicy cravings. It's a simple yet impressive snack that's ideal for parties, game days, or just a tasty treat any time. Enjoy this quick dinner idea alternative or fantastic addition to your healthy meals! It's a guaranteed winner among easy recipes, and one of the best recipes you'll ever make.