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Easy Cheddar Ranch Chex Mix Snack Bags: Best 5-Minute Recipe

cheddar ranch chex mix snack bags - featured image

These Easy Cheddar Ranch Chex Mix Snack Bags are the ultimate quick and satisfying snack. Made in under 5 minutes with simple pantry ingredients, they are perfect for parties, road trips, or a late-night craving.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups Rice Chex Cereal
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
  • 1/4 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Pinch of salt (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prepare your bags: Lay out 3-4 small snack-size zip-top bags.
  2. Add the cereal: Pour about 1 cup of Rice Chex cereal into each bag.
  3. Add the butter: Add about 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter (cut into small pieces) directly into each bag on top of the cereal.
  4. Add the seasonings: To each bag, add 1 teaspoon of ranch seasoning mix, 1 heaping tablespoon of finely shredded cheddar cheese, a pinch of garlic powder, a pinch of onion powder, and a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper (if using). Do not add salt yet.
  5. Seal and shake: Seal the bag almost all the way, leaving a small opening for steam to escape. Shake the bag to coat the cereal with the butter and seasonings.
  6. Microwave: Place the bag flat in the microwave. Microwave on high for 20-30 seconds until the butter is mostly melted. Carefully remove the bag and shake again. If needed, microwave for another 10 seconds.
  7. Second shake and heat: After the butter is melted, seal the bag completely and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. Open the bag slightly and microwave for another 15-20 seconds.
  8. Final shake and cool: Remove the bag from the microwave and give it one last shake. Open the bag and let the steam escape. Let the bag sit open for about 2-3 minutes to cool and let the coating set.
  9. Repeat: Repeat the process with the remaining bags.
  10. Serve or store: Once cooled, seal the bags and serve immediately or store for later.

Notes

For best results, use a block of sharp cheddar and shred it yourself. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Always leave a small opening in the bag when microwaving to allow steam to escape. Let the bags cool for 2-3 minutes after microwaving to allow the coating to set and become crunchy. Store sealed bags in a cool, dry place for up to 7 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chex mix, cheddar ranch, snack bags, 5-minute recipe, easy snack, party snack, gluten-free snack