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Easy Spicy Ranch Chex Mix: Best Tailgating Snack

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This spicy ranch Chex Mix is the ultimate tailgating snack—crunchy, addictive, and packed with bold flavor. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients and perfect for game day.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 9 cups Rice Chex Cereal
  • 9 cups Corn Chex Cereal
  • 2 cups Cheez-It Crackers
  • 2 cups Pretzel Sticks
  • 1 cup Mixed Nuts (salted peanuts, cashews, almonds)
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (1 stick), melted
  • 1 packet Ranch Seasoning Mix (about 1 ounce)
  • 2 tablespoons Hot Sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine Rice Chex, Corn Chex, Cheez-Its, pretzel sticks, and mixed nuts. Toss gently to distribute.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together melted butter, ranch seasoning mix, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) until fully combined.
  4. Slowly pour the butter mixture over the cereal mixture, tossing gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until every piece is evenly coated.
  5. Divide the mixture evenly between two large rimmed baking sheets, spreading it in a single layer.
  6. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes, until the mix is dry and crunchy.
  7. Let the mix cool completely on the baking sheets (at least 30 minutes) before serving or storing.
  8. Once cool, transfer to a large bowl or divide into individual serving bags.

Notes

For best results, bake at a low temperature (250°F) and stir every 15 minutes. Let the mix cool completely before storing to maintain crunchiness. The flavors deepen after a day or two. For extra heat, double the hot sauce and add more cayenne. For a milder version, omit the hot sauce and cayenne. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: spicy ranch chex mix, tailgating snack, game day snack, chex mix recipe, easy snack mix

Find it online: https://twinkletaste.com/easy-spicy-ranch-chex-mix-best-tailgating-snack/