Garlic Ranch Pretzels are a tasty snack that brings together the bold flavors of garlic and ranch seasoning. These crunchy bites are perfect for munching while watching a movie or sharing at a party!
I love how easy these pretzels are to make. Just coat them with the seasoning mix, spread them out, and bake! They add a fun twist to regular pretzels and disappear quickly!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mini Pretzels: These are the star of the show! Mini pretzels work best for snacking. If you can’t find them, regular pretzels can work too. Just break them into smaller pieces for a similar effect.
Vegetable Oil: This helps the seasoning stick to the pretzels. You can replace it with olive oil for a richer taste or melted butter for even more flavor. Just be mindful of the amount to avoid greasiness.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This adds that signature ranch flavor. Feel free to make your own blend using dried herbs and spices like dill, parsley, and onion powder if you prefer. Homemade is often more flavorful!
Garlic Powder: I really enjoy the depth it adds. If you want a more intense garlic flavor, consider using fresh minced garlic. Just remember that fresh garlic browns faster, so keep an eye on it in the oven.
How Do I Get the Pretzels Extra Crunchy?
Getting your pretzels deliciously crunchy is simple with the right baking technique. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Ensure your oven is properly preheated at 250°F (120°C) before baking. This low temperature helps the pretzels crisp up without burning.
- Stir the pretzels every 15 minutes while baking. This ensures even coating and helps them crisp on all sides.
- Let them cool completely after baking. They may seem soft at first, but they’ll harden as they cool down, making them nice and crunchy!
How to Make Garlic Ranch Pretzels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (about 3 cups) mini pretzels
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (optional)
- 1/4 tsp salt (optional, adjust to taste)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious snack takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45 minutes to bake, totaling about 1 hour. Plus, there’s a little time needed for cooling before you dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Mix:
Start by preheating your oven to 250°F (120°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the vegetable oil, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder (if you’re using it), and salt. Stir everything together until you have a nice seasoned oil mixture.
2. Coat the Pretzels:
Next, add the mini pretzels to the bowl. Toss them well with the seasoned oil mixture, making sure every pretzel gets coated evenly with those tasty flavors!
3. Bake the Pretzels:
Now it’s time to bake! Spread the coated pretzels out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes so they get crispy all around.
4. Cool and Serve:
Once the baking time is up, take the pretzels out of the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. They will become crunchier as they cool down. After they are cooled, transfer them to a serving bowl or an airtight container for later.
Enjoy your savory Garlic Ranch Pretzels as a perfect party snack or anytime treat!
Can I Use Different Types of Pretzels?
Absolutely! While mini pretzels are great for snacking, you can use regular-sized pretzels or pretzel sticks. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if you use larger pretzels to ensure they get crispy.
What If I Don’t Have Ranch Seasoning?
No problem! You can create your own ranch seasoning by mixing dried herbs like dill, parsley, onion powder, and garlic powder. Adjust the proportions to your taste, and use it in place of the store-bought ranch seasoning mix.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Garlic Ranch Pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for up to a week. Just keep them away from humid areas to maintain their crunchiness!
Can I Adjust the Seasoning?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the seasoning to your preference. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. For a stronger garlic flavor, you can increase the garlic powder as desired!