tray of ranch oyster crackers

Ranch Oyster Crackers are a super easy and addictive snack that’s perfect for parties, movie nights, or just to keep around the house when you’re craving something savory. These crackers are coated with a ranch-flavored seasoning mix and baked until they’re crispy and flavorful. Here’s a simple recipe for a Tray of Ranch Oyster Crackers:

Tray of Ranch Oyster Crackers

Ingredients:

• 1 (9 oz) bag of oyster crackers

• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter for extra richness)

• 1 packet ranch dressing mix (dry mix)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon dried dill (optional, but adds great flavor)

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

• 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional, depending on how salty your ranch mix is)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). This low temperature ensures that the crackers bake slowly and get nice and crispy without burning.

2. Prepare the seasoning mix: In a small bowl, mix the ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill (if using), red pepper flakes (if using), and salt.

3. Coat the crackers: In a large mixing bowl, pour the vegetable oil or melted butter over the oyster crackers. Toss the crackers gently to coat them evenly. Then, sprinkle the seasoning mix over the crackers and toss again to make sure all of them are evenly coated with the ranch seasoning.

4. Spread on a tray: Spread the seasoned crackers out in a single layer on a baking sheet or large tray lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This helps ensure the crackers bake evenly.

5. Bake: Bake the crackers for 30-45 minutes, stirring every 10-15 minutes to ensure they bake evenly and don’t burn. The crackers should be golden brown and crispy when they’re done.

6. Cool and serve: Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and let the crackers cool completely on the baking sheet. As they cool, they’ll continue to crisp up.

7. Store: Once cooled, store your ranch oyster crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

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Optional Add-ins & Variations:

• Cheese: You can add some grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese to the seasoning mix for an extra cheesy kick.

• Herbs: Try adding a little rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the seasoning mix for a more herbal flavor.

• Spicy Version: Add a few dashes of hot sauce to the oil before tossing the crackers, or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper for a spicier batch.

• Peanuts or Pretzels: For a more mixed snack, toss in a handful of salted peanuts or pretzels before baking.

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These crackers are so easy to make and absolutely addictive! They’re perfect for snacking on their own or served as a side to soups, chili, or salads. Let me know if you want any more snack ideas or tweaks!