Garlic Ranch Pretzels are a tasty snack that combines soft pretzels with a zesty garlic ranch flavor. Perfect for munching while watching a movie or enjoying at a party!
They’re super easy to make, and the smell of garlic will have everyone flocking to the kitchen! I love serving these with a side of ranch dressing for dipping. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mini Pretzels: The star of this snack! I love using the bite-sized ones as they get coated perfectly with flavor. If you need a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free pretzels.
Vegetable Oil or Melted Butter: Both work well, but I lean toward melted butter for that rich flavor. If you’re looking to lighten it up, use olive oil instead; it adds a nice touch!
Ranch Seasoning Mix: You can use store-bought ranch seasoning for ease, but making your own with dried herbs can be more personal and fun! If you’re dairy-free, look for dairy-free ranch mix or make a homemade blend.
Garlic Powder: A must-have for that garlicky kick! If you prefer fresh garlic, finely mince it and adjust based on your taste, but remember it might change the baking time slightly.
Dried Parsley Flakes: This adds a lovely color and extra flavor. Don’t have any? You can skip it or replace it with another herb, like dill.
How Do You Get Even Flavor on All the Pretzels?
The key to ensuring every pretzel is delicious lies in the mixing and baking. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Combine the oil and seasoning first in a large bowl to create a thick coating.
- When tossing in the pretzels, make sure to thoroughly coat them, using your hands if needed for an even mix.
- Spread them out on the baking sheet in a single layer. This ensures even cooking and helps them crisp up more effectively.
- Don’t skip the stirring every 10 minutes while baking! It redistributes the flavor and helps them cook evenly.
Cool them completely after baking; this step is crucial as they will firm up nicely, ensuring a satisfying crunch!
Garlic Ranch Pretzels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 cups mini pretzels
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil or melted butter
- 2 tsp ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley flakes
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
Time Estimate:
This tasty snack will take about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20-30 minutes of baking time. All together, you’ll need about 40 minutes total, including cooling time. It’s a quick and simple recipe that delivers big flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). This low temperature will help the pretzels crisp up without burning. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Coating:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the vegetable oil (or melted butter), ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder (if you’re using it), dried parsley flakes, and salt. Use a spoon or whisk to mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy.
3. Coat the Pretzels:
Add the mini pretzels to the bowl, and give them a good toss. Make sure every pretzel gets a nice coat of that tasty garlic ranch mixture. You can use your hands to ensure they’re all covered if you prefer!
4. Bake the Pretzels:
Spread the coated pretzels out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. This helps them bake evenly. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 20-30 minutes. Be sure to stir the pretzels every 10 minutes so they cook evenly and don’t burn.
5. Let Them Cool:
When the pretzels are nice and golden brown and smell amazing, take them out of the oven. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet. They will continue to crisp up as they cool!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooled, serve the pretzels in a big bowl. They’re perfect as a snack on their own or you can pair them with a creamy ranch dip for that extra flavor kick. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Ranch Pretzels!
This recipe yields a crunchy, flavorful snack that’s perfect for parties, game day, or simply satisfying your snack cravings!
Can I Use Different Seasonings for These Pretzels?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other seasoning blends, like chili powder for a kick or Italian seasoning for an herby flavor. Just be sure to adjust the quantities to your taste preference!
How Do I Store Leftover Pretzels?
Store any leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week. For longer storage, you can keep them in the fridge, but let them come to room temperature before serving for the best crunch.
Can I Make These Pretzels Vegan?
Yes! Just use vegetable oil instead of butter and make sure your ranch seasoning is dairy-free. Many brands offer vegan ranch mixes that work perfectly!
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftover Pretzels?
To reheat, simply spread the pretzels on a baking sheet and pop them in a preheated oven at 250°F (120°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore their crispiness!
