Crispy Ranch Chex Mix: 5-Ingredient Easy Snack
A quick, crunchy, and addictive snack mix made with Chex cereal, butter, ranch seasoning, and smoked paprika. Perfect for game day or busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 cups 1x
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 cups Chex Cereal Mix (rice, corn, and wheat)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry ranch seasoning
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Lightly grease a large roasting pan or baking sheet with non-stick spray or butter.
- Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan until smooth.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the dry ranch seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Pour the melted butter over the spice mixture and whisk until it forms a smooth, thick paste.
- Pour the Chex mix into the prepared large roasting pan.
- Slowly pour the butter-spice mixture over the cereal, tossing well to coat evenly.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then remove and toss the mix thoroughly.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, tossing every 5 minutes, until golden brown and firm.
- Spread the mix out on parchment paper or a clean kitchen towel and let cool completely before storing.
Notes
Ensure the mix cools completely before storing to prevent sogginess. If using gluten-free cereal, ensure the ranch seasoning is also gluten-free. For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter. Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 9
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 22
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 2
Keywords: Chex mix, ranch snack, game day food, easy snack, crispy cereal, smoked paprika, party snack, quick recipe