Spicy Ranch Crackers

Ingredients:

– 1 (1-ounce) packet ranch dressing mix
– 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (depending on your heat preference)
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 4 sleeves Saltine crackers

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 250°F. It’s nice and low to let the crackers slowly toast without burning.

2. In a small bowl, mix together the ranch dressing mix, crushed red pepper flakes, and garlic powder. This is your spice blend that brings the crackers to life.

3. Pour the vegetable oil over the spice mixture and whisk it together until it’s all friendly and well combined.

4. Gently place your Saltine crackers in a large bowl—to avoid any cracker casualties as they’re pretty tender—and drizzle your spicy ranch oil over them. Toss them carefully with a spatula or your hands to coat each cracker with flavor.

5. Spread the crackers out in a single layer on a baking sheet. You might need two sheets to have enough space.

6. Slide them into the oven and let them bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, turning them once halfway through. You’ll know they’re done when they’re looking toasty and golden.

7. Let the crackers cool on the baking sheet. It’s tough, but waiting lets them crisp up just right.

Variations & Tips:

– For a gluten-sensitive bunch, you can swap out the Saltines for your favorite gluten-free crackers—just watch the oven as baking times might vary.
– If ranch isn’t your family’s go-to, you can use Italian dressing mix for a different kind of zesty sparkle.
– The recipe can be halved or doubled depending on the size of your gathering, just keep the ratio of seasoning to oil to crackers in mind.
– Store leftovers, if you have any, in an airtight container to keep them crispy until it’s snacking time again.

There you have it, a simple snack that brings a bit of a jolt to your table. Break out those Saltines and let’s get baking!