Zesty Spicy Ranch Crackers
These Zesty Spicy Ranch Crackers are a flavorful twist on your classic snack! A delightful party favorite inspired by my sister-in-law Melinda's original recipe, these crackers are infused with a blend of canola oil, zesty ranch dressing mix, and just the right amount of red pepper flakes. While I prefer a milder kick with just one tablespoon of spice, you can easily adjust the heat level to suit your taste. Perfect for sharing at gatherings, game day, or simply enjoying with a movie, these crackers offer a satisfying crunch and a delicious burst of flavor that will keep you coming back for more!
20
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Canola oil
1 1/4 cups (none)
Ranch dressing mix
1 (1 ounce) package (none)
Red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons (adjust to taste)
Saltine crackers
1 (16 ounce) box (none)
Instructions
1
In a large 2-gallon size zip-top storage bag, combine canola oil, ranch dressing mix, and red pepper flakes.
2
Seal the bag and shake gently to mix the ingredients thoroughly.
3
Carefully add the saltine crackers to the bag. Seal it again, ensuring there's enough air for the crackers to tumble.
4
Gently tumble the bag for about 15 minutes, ensuring that all crackers are evenly coated with the spicy oil mixture.
5
Let the crackers sit for an additional 10 minutes for flavors to develop, then serve or store in an airtight container.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Zesty Spicy Ranch Crackers?
They are a flavorful snack made by coating saltine crackers in a mixture of canola oil, ranch dressing mix, and red pepper flakes.
What ingredients are needed for this recipe?
You will need 1 1/4 cups of canola oil, one 1-ounce package of ranch dressing mix, 2 tablespoons of red pepper flakes, and one 16-ounce box of saltine crackers.
How long does it take to make these crackers?
The total preparation and flavor-setting time is less than 30 minutes.
Can I adjust the spiciness level?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste; the author prefers one tablespoon for a milder kick.
What type of oil is recommended?
Canola oil is recommended for its neutral flavor and ability to coat the crackers evenly.
How many crackers are required?
The recipe calls for one full 16-ounce box of saltine crackers.
Do I need to bake these crackers?
No, this is a no-bake recipe where the crackers absorb the oil mixture through tumbling and sitting.
How should the crackers be stored?
Store the crackers in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crunchy.
Can I use different types of crackers?
While saltines are traditional for this recipe, you can experiment with other plain crackers if desired.
What size bag should I use for mixing?
A large 2-gallon size zip-top storage bag is ideal to allow enough room for the crackers to tumble.
How do I ensure the crackers are evenly coated?
Gently tumble the sealed bag for about 15 minutes to distribute the spicy oil mixture across all crackers.
Can I substitute olive oil for canola oil?
Yes, you can substitute olive oil, though it may slightly change the flavor profile compared to neutral canola oil.
What size is the ranch dressing mix package?
The recipe uses a standard 1-ounce package of ranch dressing mix.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 20 servings.
Are these crackers suitable for party snacks?
Absolutely, they are a party favorite and perfect for game days, movie nights, or gatherings.
Can I make these crackers in advance?
Yes, these are great to make ahead as the flavors continue to develop while they sit.
How long do these crackers stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container, they can stay fresh for several days.
What can I use if I don't have red pepper flakes?
You can use cayenne pepper or omit the spice entirely if you prefer a standard ranch flavor.
Can I add other seasonings?
Yes, feel free to add garlic powder or onion powder for extra depth of flavor.
Who inspired this recipe?
This version was inspired by the author's sister-in-law, Melinda.
Are these crackers vegan?
Most saltines and canola oil are vegan, but ranch dressing mix usually contains dairy, so you would need a vegan ranch substitute.
Are these crackers gluten-free?
Standard saltine crackers contain gluten; you would need to use gluten-free crackers to make this recipe gluten-free.
Can I mix these in a bowl instead of a bag?
A bag is recommended for easy tumbling without breaking the crackers, but a very large bowl with a lid could work.
How much ranch mix is needed?
You will need one full 1-ounce package.
Is there any prep required for the ingredients?
No specific preparation like chopping is needed; you simply combine the pre-measured ingredients.
Do I need to preheat my oven?
No oven is required for this recipe.
Why should the crackers sit for 10 minutes after tumbling?
Letting them sit allows the oil and seasonings to fully soak into the crackers for better flavor.
Are these crackers kid-friendly?
They can be kid-friendly if you reduce or remove the red pepper flakes to lower the heat.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, it is an extremely easy, no-cook recipe that requires minimal effort.
What is the best way to serve them?
They are best served as a standalone snack or as a side to soups and salads.