Are you looking for the perfect game-day snack that's both ridiculously easy and unbelievably delicious? Look no further! This Chex Mix Trash recipe is a crowd-pleaser guaranteed to vanish in minutes. Forget store-bought mixes – this homemade version lets you customize the flavors and textures to perfection, creating the ultimate crunchy, salty, and sweet snack experience. It's the perfect blend of easy recipes and healthy meals, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Get ready to ditch the boring and embrace the deliciously messy world of Chex Mix Trash!
Ingredients:
- 6 cups Chex cereal (a mix of Rice Chex, Corn Chex, and Wheat Chex is recommended)
- 1 cup pretzels (sticks or twists)
- 1 cup peanuts (salted or unsalted)
- 1 cup small breadsticks (like breadsticks from a can)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup seasoned butter-flavored popcorn seasoning (optional, but highly recommended!)
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 step is crucial for even baking and effortless cleanup afterward.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the Chex cereal, pretzels, peanuts, and breadsticks. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of all ingredients.
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Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. Make sure the butter is completely melted for a smooth sauce.
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Coat the Mix: Pour the sauce over the cereal mixture and stir gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated. Don't overmix, as this can break the Chex cereal.
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Bake to Perfection: Spread the mixture 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, as ovens can vary.
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Season & Cool: Remove from the oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cool, sprinkle with the optional seasoned butter-flavored popcorn seasoning and gently toss to coat.
Tips for the Best Chex Mix Trash:
- Customize Your Crunch: Feel free to add other crunchy elements like mini marshmallows, potato chips, or even different nuts for a unique twist.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Make it Ahead: This Chex Mix Trash can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. The flavors actually meld better after a day or two.
- Portion Control: This recipe makes a large batch, perfect for sharing (or not!).
Variations:
- Sweet & Spicy Chex Mix: Add a few tablespoons of brown sugar to the sauce for a sweet and savory combination.
- Ranch Chex Mix: Replace the Worcestershire sauce with your favorite ranch dressing powder mixed with a little water.
Nutritional Information (per serving - approximate, based on a 12-serving recipe):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 5g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This Chex Mix Trash recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are easy to make. Enjoy this fantastic quick dinner idea – perfect for family gatherings, parties, or a simple yet satisfying snack. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that showcases the joy of homemade cooking and offers a delicious and easy way to impress your friends and family!