We’ve always been fans of turning simple snacks into crave-worthy treats, and our Cheez It Ranch Recipe does just that. It takes the iconic cheesy crunch of Cheez-Its and amps it up with zesty ranch flavors for a snack that’s impossible to resist.
In our kitchen, we’ve crafted this recipe to be quick and fun, perfect for game days or impromptu gatherings. It’s a fresh spin on a classic that brings bold taste to your table without the fuss.
Ingredients
In our Cheez It Ranch Recipe, we gather simple, high-quality ingredients that transform ordinary Cheez-Its into a zesty, crave-worthy snack bursting with ranch flavor. Below, we list the ingredients in the order they’re used, with precise measurements and any necessary prep notes to ensure your preparation is seamless and flavorful.
- Cheez-Its: 8 ounces (1 standard bag), providing the crunchy base that we coat for maximum texture and taste.
- Ranch dressing mix: 1 ounce packet (store-bought or homemade), whisked to release its tangy, herbaceous essence that defines this snack.
- Unsalted butter: ½ cup, melted to a smooth liquid for even coating and a rich, golden finish.
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon, freshly added for a pungent, aromatic kick that enhances the ranch profile.
- Onion powder: 1 teaspoon, incorporated next for a subtle, savory depth that complements the herbs.
- Dried dill: 1 teaspoon, crumbled to infuse a fresh, vibrant green note that evokes the classic ranch tang.
- Dried parsley: 1 teaspoon, stirred in for an earthy, visual pop of color and flavor.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste, ground just before use to balance and amplify the overall zestiness of our snack.
Required Tools and Equipment
Before we dive into preparing our Cheez It Ranch Recipe, let’s gather the essential tools and equipment. These items ensure a smooth process as we mix, coat, and bake our zesty snack to perfection.
To keep things organized, we’ve compiled a list of the key tools you’ll need. We recommend having them ready to maintain efficiency and avoid interruptions during preparation.
- Large Mixing Bowl: We use this to combine the ranch dressing mix, melted butter, and seasonings with the Cheez-Its for even coating.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial—grab a set of cups for the butter and spoons for the seasonings like garlic powder and dried dill.
- Baking Sheet or Tray: This is where we spread out the coated Cheez-Its for baking, ensuring they get that crispy, golden finish.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring and tossing the ingredients to achieve a uniform ranch flavor on every piece.
- Oven or Air Fryer: Depending on your preference, we rely on this for baking at the right temperature—typically around 350°F—to enhance the savory notes without burning.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Mat: We line the baking sheet with this to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier after the snack cools.
With these tools in hand, we’re set to transition seamlessly from measuring our ingredients to creating a batch of irresistible, ranch-infused Cheez-Its that will elevate any gathering.
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients and tools prepared, let’s walk through the simple steps to create our irresistible Cheez It Ranch snack. We’ll use active techniques to ensure every bite is packed with zesty, crunchy flavor.
Prep
First, we preheat our oven to 350°F for even baking that achieves a golden, crispy finish. In a large mixing bowl, we measure out 1-ounce packet of ranch dressing mix, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon dried dill, and 1 teaspoon dried parsley, combining them into a flavorful blend that infuses the Cheez-Its with bold, herbaceous notes.
Mix and Shape
We pour the 8 ounces of Cheez-Its into the large mixing bowl with our ranch seasoning blend. Next, we drizzle in the ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, using a spatula to toss and coat the crackers evenly, ensuring each one glistens with a savory, buttery sheen that promises a satisfying crunch. For optimal results, we spread the coated Cheez-Its in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, arranging them so they bake uniformly without clumping.
Bake
We slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping the Cheez-Its halfway through with a spatula to promote an even, golden-brown crispiness that releases an aromatic, ranch-infused aroma filling the kitchen. Keep a close eye on them to avoid over-browning, aiming for a texture that’s irresistibly crunchy and full of vibrant flavors that elevate this classic snack.
Cool
Once baked, we remove the sheet from the oven and let the Cheez-Its cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes, allowing them to firm up and develop a more intense, tangy ranch taste as they rest. This step ensures the crackers maintain their perfect snap and are ready for serving at room temperature, making them an ideal, shareable treat for any gathering.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To keep our Cheez It Ranch snack fresh and flavorful for your next gathering, we love preparing it in advance. This approach saves time and ensures you have a crispy, zesty treat ready to go. Follow these simple steps to make ahead without compromising on taste or texture.
Preparing in Advance
We recommend assembling and baking the Cheez It Ranch up to 24 hours before serving. Here’s how we do it step by step:
- Step 1: After coating the Cheez-Its with the ranch seasoning and melted butter as outlined in our main instructions, spread them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 2: Bake the snack according to the recipe, then let it cool completely on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes to achieve that perfect crispy finish.
- Step 3: Once cooled, transfer the Cheez-Its to an airtight container. We suggest using a container with a secure lid to prevent moisture from sneaking in and softening the crackers.
Storage Tips
Storing your make-ahead Cheez It Ranch properly is key to maintaining its irresistible crunch and bold ranch flavors. Below, we break down the storage options based on duration:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature (in an airtight container) | Up to 2 days | Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve crispiness. |
| Refrigerator (in an airtight container) | Up to 5 days | This extends shelf life but may slightly soften the texture; reheat in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes if needed. |
| Freezer (in a freezer-safe bag or container) | Up to 1 month | Freeze in a single layer first to avoid clumping, then thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving. |
By following these make-ahead strategies, we ensure your Cheez It Ranch stays a show-stopping snack that elevates any occasion with minimal last-minute effort.
Conclusion
We’ve shared a recipe that’s easy to whip up and packed with zesty ranch goodness. It’s a fun way to jazz up your snacking routine and wow your friends at gatherings.
This twist on Cheez-Its lets us enjoy bold flavors without the fuss so you can focus on what matters most—creating great memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for Cheez It Ranch Recipe?
You’ll need 8 ounces of Cheez-Its, a 1-ounce packet of ranch dressing mix, ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, and seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and dried parsley. These simple, high-quality items create a zesty, flavorful snack that’s quick to prepare.
What tools are required to make Cheez It Ranch?
Gather a large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a baking sheet or tray, a spatula or wooden spoon, an oven or air fryer, and parchment paper or a silicone mat. These essentials help ensure even coating and baking for a crispy finish.
How do I prepare Cheez It Ranch?
Preheat your oven to 350°F and mix the ranch seasoning with melted butter. Coat the Cheez-Its evenly, spread them on a baking sheet, and bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway. Let them cool to enhance crunch and flavor—perfect for gatherings!
How long does it take to make Cheez It Ranch?
The whole process takes about 20-30 minutes, including prep and baking time at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. It’s a quick, fun recipe ideal for game days or casual snacks.
Can I make Cheez It Ranch ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Bake, cool completely, and store in an airtight container to keep it crispy. This makes it easy for events without last-minute hassle.
How should I store Cheez It Ranch for freshness?
Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For longer, refrigerate for up to 5 days (reheat if needed) or freeze for up to 1 month. This keeps the snack flavorful and crunchy.