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Spicy ranch oyster crackers are a popular snack that combines the flavors of zesty ranch seasoning with a kick of heat.
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Fire Ranch Oyster Crackers
Spicy ranch oyster crackers are typically made by coating oyster crackers with a mixture of ranch seasoning and spices. The crackers are then baked or toasted until crispy and infused with zesty spicy flavor you won’t be able to get enough of! The combination of spices gives the oyster crackers a bold and savory taste with a hint of tanginess. The addition of spices like cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder adds a spicy kick to the crackers, making them more flavorful and addictive.
Spicy ranch oyster crackers have a satisfying crunch, which makes them a delightful snack option. The baking or toasting process helps transform the crackers into crispy bites while ensuring that the flavors are evenly distributed!
You can customize the level of spiciness in your spicy ranch oyster crackers by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper or other spicy seasonings used. If you prefer a milder version, you can reduce or omit the spicy ingredients. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize the flavor profile to your liking.
Fire ranch oyster crackers can be made from scratch using oyster crackers and a homemade ranch seasoning blend or by using pre-packaged ranch seasoning mixes, which we’re going to describe below. We hope you love these addictive little bites as much as we do!
How to Make Spicy Ranch Oyster Crackers
To make this recipe, we will need the following ingredients:
- Dried parsley: adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor to the crackers.
- Dried dill weed: adds a tangy and slightly bitter flavor that complements the other seasonings.
- Garlic powder: adds a pungent and savory flavor that is a key component of the seasoning blend.
- Onion powder: adds a sweet and slightly pungent flavor that complements the garlic and other seasonings.
- Dried onion flakes: add a crunchy texture and a mild onion flavor to the crackers.
- Dried basil: adds a sweet and slightly peppery flavor to the crackers.
- Black pepper: adds a spicy and pungent flavor that complements the other seasonings.
- Sea salt: enhances the flavor of the crackers and helps to balance the spicy and savory flavors.
- Saltine crackers: provide the base for the recipe and add a crispy texture to the crackers.
- Vegetable oil: helps to evenly distribute the seasoning blend on the crackers and creates a crispy texture when baked.
- Red pepper flakes: add a spicy kick of heat to the crackers.
- Cayenne pepper: adds a hot and spicy flavor to the crackers.
- Oyster crackers: In a spicy ranch cracker recipe, oyster crackers act as the main ingredient that absorbs and carries the flavors of the ranch seasoning and spices. Their texture and neutral taste make them an excellent choice for creating a crunchy and flavorful snack.
Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, we will use the following process:
- Prep. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Mix ranch seasoning. In a large bowl, combine the dried parsley, dried dill weed, garlic powder, onion powder, dried onion flakes, dried basil, black pepper, sea salt, red pepper flakes, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
- Toss crackers. Add the vegetable oil to the spice mixture and stir until it forms a paste-like consistency. Pour the oyster crackers into a plastic bag with the spice paste. Gently toss and stir until the crackers are well coated with the mixture. Make sure all the crackers are evenly coated.
- Bake. Spread the coated oyster crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake the crackers in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they are crispy and golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Cool. Once baked, remove the crackers from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet.
- Enjoy! Once cooled, transfer the spicy ranch oyster crackers to an airtight container or sealable bags for storage.
Tips and Tricks to Perfect Spicy Ranch Oyster Crackers
Even Coating: Ensure that the spice mixture is evenly distributed and coats each oyster cracker. Toss the crackers gently in the spice paste to ensure they are well coated. This will help ensure that each cracker has a delicious flavor.
Adjust Spice Levels: The amount of red pepper flakes and cayenne pepper can be adjusted to suit your desired level of spiciness. Start with the recommended amounts in the recipe and add more if you prefer a spicier kick or reduce them for a milder flavor.
Use Fresh and Quality Spices: Using fresh and high-quality spices will enhance the overall flavor of the crackers. Check the expiration dates on your spices and make sure they are still potent. Fresh spices will bring out the best flavors in the recipe.
Let Them Cool Completely: Allow the baked crackers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. This will help them become crispy and retain their crunch. If stored while still warm, they may become slightly soft or lose their texture.
Storage: Store the spicy ranch oyster crackers in an airtight container or sealable bags to maintain their freshness and crispness. They can be stored at room temperature for several weeks, but chances are they won’t last that long due to their deliciousness!
Experiment with Herbs and Spices: Feel free to experiment with additional herbs and spices to customize the flavor of your spicy ranch oyster crackers. You can add a pinch of dried thyme, paprika, or even grated Parmesan cheese to elevate the taste.
Double the Batch: If you’re making these crackers for a gathering or to have on hand for snacking, consider doubling the recipe. Spicy ranch oyster crackers tend to disappear quickly, so having extra is always a good idea.
Serve with Dips: Spicy ranch oyster crackers pair well with various dips. Try serving them alongside creamy ranch dip, hummus, or even a spicy salsa for extra flavor options.
FAQs
Spicy ranch oyster crackers are a popular snack made by coating oyster crackers with a mixture of ranch seasoning and spices. They are baked or toasted until crispy and infused with bold flavors, including a spicy kick.
Oyster crackers are commonly available in most grocery stores. They can typically be found in the snack or cracker aisle alongside other types of crackers.
While oyster crackers are traditionally used for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of crackers if desired. Saltine crackers or mini salted pretzels can be good alternatives.
The spiciness of the crackers can be adjusted to your preference. The amount of red pepper flakes and cayenne pepper in the recipe can be increased or decreased based on how spicy you want them to be. Start with the recommended amounts and adjust according to your taste.
When stored in an airtight container or sealable bags, spicy ranch oyster crackers can stay fresh for several weeks. However, they are usually so delicious and addictive that they are consumed quickly!
Yes, spicy ranch oyster crackers can be made in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature until ready to serve. This makes them a convenient option for parties or snacking on the go.
Absolutely! The ranch seasoning can be adjusted to suit your taste. If you prefer a stronger ranch flavor, you can add more of the ranch seasoning mix. Feel free to experiment and customize the seasoning according to your preferences.
Yes! You can use 2 tablespoons (or one packet) of pre-made ranch seasoning if you’d like to use store bought instead of mixing your own. Be sure to add the red pepper flakes and cayenne pepper, however!
What to Serve With Spicy Ranch Oyster Crackers
Dips: Pair the spicy ranch oyster crackers with creamy dips such as fried pickle ranch dip, buffalo chicken dip, spinach and artichoke dip, or even a homemade spicy cheese dip. The combination of the spicy crackers and creamy dip creates a delicious flavor contrast.
Cheese and Charcuterie Platter: Create a cheese and charcuterie platter like our Pub Cheese Board or Cheese Plate with an assortment of cheeses, cured meats, fruits, nuts, and olives. The spicy ranch oyster crackers can provide a crunchy and flavorful element to the platter!
Soups and Chili: Use spicy ranch oyster crackers as a garnish for soups or chili. Crush the crackers and sprinkle them on top of tomato soup, potato soup, chicken tortilla soup, or hearty chili for an added kick and texture.
Party Mix: Combine spicy ranch oyster crackers with other snack items like pretzels, nuts, popcorn, and cereal to create a flavorful party mix. The crackers add a zesty and spicy element to the mix.
Salads: Sprinkle crushed spicy ranch oyster crackers on top of salads for an extra crunch and flavor. They can be a delicious alternative to croutons or nuts in a salad.
Spicy Ranch Oyster Crackers Recipe
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Spicy Ranch Oyster Crackers
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon dried dill weed
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon dried onion flakes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 box 9-10 ounces oyster crackers
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- In a large bowl, combine the dried parsley, dried dill weed, garlic powder, onion powder, dried onion flakes, dried basil, black pepper, sea salt, red pepper flakes, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
- Add the vegetable oil to the spice mixture and stir until it forms a paste-like consistency.
- Pour the oyster crackers into the bowl with the spice paste. Gently toss and stir until the crackers are well coated with the mixture. Make sure all the crackers are evenly coated.
- Spread the coated oyster crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the crackers in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they are crispy and golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Once baked, remove the crackers from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet.
- Once cooled, transfer the spicy ranch oyster crackers to an airtight container or sealable bags for storage.
I had some oyster crackers hanging around my pantry and wanted something yummy to do with them. Then I remembered I had this recipe saved. Such an easy and delicious way to eat these salty, spicy little crackers. Thanks for the recipe. I love these.
So glad you love them! They are so easy to make and are a great snack!