Ranch Pretzels Recipe
Get ready for your new addiction…ranch pretzels have everything you crave in a savory, crunchy snack.
I have always been a fan of mixing cheddar goldfish with pretzels for a cheesy, salty snack. I thought it was the perfect combo until I tried ranch pretzels. Wow, good luck stopping at a handful. The salty pretzels and crackers mixed with ranch seasoning and dill will satisfy all taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Did you know that the average American consumes about 1.5 pounds of pretzels per year? Pretzels are one of the most popular treats worldwide and have a rich heritage that began in Germany back in the 12th century. In the beginning, pretzels were always served soft, and it wasn’t until the 1800s that a baker in Pennsylvania left soft pretzels in the oven for too long and discovered that hard, crunchy pretzels were a delicious treat that would last longer than the soft ones. 200 years later we are still crunching away!
Do you like snacks that you can take with you anywhere or grab when you need a quick bite at home in between meetings on the computer? I sure do. Ranch pretzels are perfect for that. What I love most is that I can make a large batch and store the snack mix for a week. However, my family eats it all within a couple of days.
Ranch flavor with anything always seems to work out well; however, in the past, I only considered it for meals. Some of my favorites are ranch chicken and ranch cauliflower. Now, in my home, ranch pretzels are so popular that we never eat plain pretzels anymore. This recipe calls for ranch seasoning plus garlic powder, and the result is a salty snack mix with just enough bite to keep you on your toes (and alert during those boring meetings).
Are Ranch Pretzels Healthy?
Ranch pretzels are an excellent snacking choice, especially compared to other options, such as potato chips. You get the salty crunch without the calories, plus less saturated fat since pretzels aren’t cooked with oil.
This ranch pretzel recipe has only a few ingredients and is safe for many diets. Still, remember that some pretzels are high in sodium, so look for low-sodium options if that is an issue. Also, store-bought ranch seasoning mixes use dried buttermilk, making them unsafe for a dairy-free person; however, some of the most popular brands are gluten- and keto-friendly. For gluten-free diets, simply use gluten-free pretzels and crackers, or try adding these almond flour crackers to the mix. You can also omit the crackers entirely.
What is ranch seasoning mix?
Ranch seasoning is not the same as ranch dressing. Using ranch dressing will not yield the same results since the dressing is wet and the seasoning mix is dry. You can buy ranch seasoning mixes at the store in the salad dressing aisle. They come in a powdery form, usually in a container or packets. You can also make a homemade, healthy ranch seasoning mix containing no dairy or gluten using the ranch seasoning recipe in this parmesan roasted cauliflower recipe.
INGREDIENTS
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 teaspoon dill weed dried
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 cups mini pretzels
- 4 cups cheddar goldfish crackers
INSTRUCTIONS
Prep
Preheat the oven and get your mixing bowls ready.
Mix
Toss together pretzels, goldfish, and oyster crackers in a bowl.
Season
Whisk together the olive oil and seasonings, then coat the snack mix evenly.
Bake
Spread the mix on a baking sheet and bake until perfectly toasted.
Enjoy
Let the snack mix cool, then store or serve.
Devour!
FAQs & Tips
How to Make Ahead and Store?
After making the ranch pretzels and allowing them to cool, place them in an airtight container. They will be safe in the pantry or on the counter for up to three weeks. Freezing and refrigeration are not recommended.
Can I skip the oil?
The pretzels need a little oil so the seasonings stick. If you don’t like olive oil, you could use any oil, such as coconut or vegetable oil. You can also use 1/4 cup of oil instead of a 1/2 cup if you don’t want as much oil. Just keep in mind that some of the pretzels may not get coated well.
What if I don’t like dill?
No problem! You can skip the dill seasoning or throw something else in, such as thyme or oregano. This is your snack, so make it how you like it.
Should I buy ranch dressing mix or ranch seasoning mix?
Ranch dressing mix and ranch seasoning mix are similar and may or may not have the same ingredients, depending on the type or brand. When liquid ingredients are added, both become dressings. Choose the mix according to your taste.
Can I use any type of pretzels?
Yes! Any type of hard, crunchy pretzel will work. You can choose traditional or gluten-free pretzels and use any shape you like. I prefer the twists, but you could also use rods or sticks.
Serving Suggestions
This snack mix is great on its own. I grab a handful of ranch pretzels regularly as I am working during the day. They are also great for packed lunches and as a snack on the go.
If you like a little crunch with a sandwich, especially at lunchtime, try this chicken pesto sandwich with some ranch pretzels on the side. I also love to set a dish of the pretzels out when guests are enjoying cocktails and visiting as we wait for dinner. A French 75 and a few ranch pretzels never hurt anyone.
Ranch Pretzels Recipe
Get ready for your new addiction…ranch pretzels have everything you crave in a savory, crunchy snack.
Servings 10
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 teaspoon dill weed dried
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 cups mini pretzels
- 4 cups cheddar goldfish crackers
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 250 degrees F to ensure it’s ready for baking.
- Combine the mini pretzels and cheddar goldfish crackers in a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, ranch seasoning mix, dried dill weed, and garlic powder until blended.
- Pour the ranch seasoning mix over the snack mix and stir well.
- Spread the coated snack mix in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even baking.
- Remove the snack mix from the oven and let it cool. DEVOUR!
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