Print

Easy Savory Chex Mix with Ranch and Old Bay

Easy Savory Chex Mix with Ranch and Old Bay - featured image

This Easy Savory Chex Mix with Ranch and Old Bay is a nostalgic, addictive snack that recreates the flavor of a beloved dive bar. It’s quick to make with simple pantry ingredients and perfect for game day or any snacking occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 9 cups Chex cereal (Rice and Corn Chex recommended)
  • 2 cups mini pretzels
  • 1 cup mixed nuts (peanuts, cashews, almonds; roasted and salted)
  • 1 cup cheese crackers (like Goldfish or Cheez-Its)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 packet (1 ounce) Ranch seasoning mix
  • 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Chex cereal, mini pretzels, mixed nuts, and cheese crackers. Toss gently to distribute.
  3. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Whisk in the vegetable oil.
  4. Add the ranch seasoning mix, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the butter mixture. Whisk until well combined.
  5. Pour the seasoned butter mixture over the dry cereal mix. Use a spatula or large spoon to gently fold until every piece is coated.
  6. Spread the coated mix onto the prepared baking sheet in a single, even layer.
  7. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes, until the mix is dry and crispy.
  8. Remove from the oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet for at least 30 minutes without stirring.
  9. Once cool, break up any large clumps with your hands. Serve or store in an airtight container.

Notes

Toast the cereal first to dry it out for better seasoning adhesion. Use unsalted butter to control salt level. Let cool completely before storing to maintain crispness. For a spicier version, add extra cayenne or use buffalo wing seasoning.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chex mix, ranch, Old Bay, savory snack, game day snack, easy snack mix