Ranch Chex Mix
Ranch Chex mix is tangy, crunchy, and totally addictive. You can easily double the batch to keep this snack on hand for the whole family.
When you have growing kids, keeping plenty of snacks on hand is important.
I can’t count the number of times my older son has asked for a snack just an hour after a big dinner. Thankfully I’ve learned to always have a variety of snacks on hand to suit both him and his younger brother.
Aside from always being hungry, our family loves to have something to snack on while we watch movies together. Chex mixes have quickly become a favorite, so we now always have a batch on hand.
Everyone loves puppy chow and taco Chex mix, but I’m not kidding when I say this ranch Chex mix disappeared faster than any of the others.
There’s just something about the tangy flavor of ranch that we can’t get enough of. Whether we’re eating ranch dip with veggies or dipping pizza into ranch, it’s just part of our lives.
What can I add to ranch Chex mix?
Snack mixes are great because you can add nearly anything and it will turn out delicious.
For this version, I kept things classic with pretzels and peanuts, but you can add your favorites!
Some great options are cheese crackers, Bugels, oyster crackers, mini melba toasts, or rye crisps.
You can also change up the variety of cereal you use. I like rice and corn, but wheat adds a nice nutty flavor, or you could use Crispix for the double sided flavor.
Cashews are great in snack mix as well, and especially good with ranch seasoning.
What is ranch seasoning?
To make this recipe you’ll need some powdered ranch seasoning. This is not bottled dressing!
You can buy packets of ranch seasoning at the grocery store. There are often a few different options, but the classic flavor is what you need here.
Ranch seasoning is also really easy to make at home. I make a big batch and keep it on hand for adding to recipes. It’s cheaper than buying the packets each time, and I like adding more or less of my favorite seasonings like dried chives or dill.
You can also add other flavorings in addition to the ranch seasoning. A little cayenne adds a nice bit of heat!
Can I make ranch Chex mix in the microwave?
If you don’t want to turn on the oven, this recipe can be done in the microwave.
First, be sure to use a microwave-safe bowl. Not all mixing bowls are! If you don’t have large bowls, you might need to divide the recipe into batches to fit.
Melt your butter in a small bowl, then pour it over your cereal mix. Stir in the ranch seasoning to coat evenly.
Microwave on high for about 3 minutes, stirring every 60 seconds. Depending on your microwave’s wattage, you might need less time.
Spread the mix onto a rimmed baking sheet to cool completely, then store in an airtight container.
Whether you make this snack mix in the oven or the microwave, you won’t be able to stop eating it! Happy snacking!
Ranch Chex Mix
Ingredients
- 3 cups corn Chex
- 3 cups rice Chex
- 2 cups pretzels
- 1 cup nuts
- 1 packet or ¼ cup ranch seasoning divided
- ¼ cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 250°F.
- In a large bowl, combine cereals, pretzels, and nuts. Sprinkle half the ranch seasoning over the top.
- Drizzle on the melted butter and stir well to coat. Sprinkle on remaining ranch seasoning and stir well again.
- Spread mix onto a large rimmed baking sheet. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes. Let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is an estimate based on online calculators and provided as a courtesy. Any nutritional information should be used as a general guideline only.
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