Festive and Fun Spicy Cheez-Its

Make these Spicy Ranch Cheez-Its for the ultimate party snack or game-day treat! This easy recipe combines Cheez-Its with ranch seasoning, red pepper flakes, and oil for a bold, zesty flavor. Perfect for sharing at gatherings, serving at holidays, or enjoying as a quick, crunchy snack. Ready in just 20 minutes and customizable to your spice level, this is a must-try recipe for fans of savory snacks.

Ingredients

US Customary – Metric

• 12.4 oz. original Cheez-Its (1 box)
• ½ cup canola or vegetable oil
• 1 oz. dry Ranch dressing mix (1 packet)
• 3–5 teaspoons red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Set your oven to 250°F (120°C) and prepare a large baking pan (or two smaller ones) by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.
2. Mix Ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the Cheez-Its, oil, Ranch dressing mix, and red pepper flakes. Toss until the crackers are evenly coated.
3. Spread and Bake:
   Spread the coated Cheez-Its evenly on the prepared baking pan(s). Bake for 15–20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
4. Cool and Store:
   Remove the crackers from the oven and let them cool completely. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container for storage.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in minutes and requires minimal effort.
• Perfect for Parties: A spicy, savory snack that’s always a hit at gatherings.
• Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with just a few pantry staples.

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Tips

• Mix Well: Ensure every cracker is coated evenly for the best flavor.
• Stir During Baking: Stir halfway through baking to prevent sticking and promote even crisping.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container to keep the crackers fresh and crunchy.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Milder Flavor: Use less red pepper flakes or omit them for a kid-friendly version.
• Extra Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for more heat.
• Different Crackers: Substitute Cheez-Its with other bite-sized crackers like Goldfish or Ritz Bits.
• Cheese Twist: Sprinkle shredded Parmesan or cheddar over the crackers before baking.

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FAQs

Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes! Olive oil or avocado oil works as a substitute, though they may alter the flavor slightly.

How long can I store these spicy Cheez-Its?
Stored in an airtight container, they’ll stay fresh for up to a week.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free crackers as a substitute for the original Cheez-Its.

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Serving

Serve these spicy Cheez-Its as a snack during game nights, parties, or movie marathons. They’re also great as an appetizer or alongside soups and salads for added crunch.

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Suggestions

• Package these crackers in decorative jars or bags for a fun homemade gift.
• Pair them with a creamy dip like ranch or queso for a balanced snack.
• Make a double batch—they disappear quickly at gatherings!