Savory Ranch Chex Mix

Make yourself home on the ranch with a cheesy snack mix that's ready in minutes!

Makes 26 servings (1/2 cup each)

3 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted
9 cups Corn Chex, Rice Chex or Wheat Chex cereal (or combination)
2 cups bite-size pretzel twists
2 cups bite-size cheese crackers
1 package (1 ounce) ranch dressing and seasoning mix
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1. In large microwavable bowl, microwave butter uncovered on High about 30 seconds or until melted. Stir in cereal, pretzels and crackers until evenly coated. Stir in dressing mix and cheese until evenly coated.

2. Microwave uncovered on High 3 minutes, stirring each minute. Spread on waxed paper or foil to cool, about 15 minutes. Store in airtight container.
Oven Directions: Heat oven to 250 degrees F. In ungreased 13 x 9-inch pan, melt butter in oven. Stir in cereal, pretzels and crackers until evenly coated. Stir in dressing mix and cheese until evenly coated. Bake 10 minutes, stirring after 5 minutes. Spread on waxed paper or foil to cool, about 15 minutes. Store in airtight container.

High Altitude (3500-6500 ft): No changes.

Nutrition Information: 1 Serving: Calories 100 (Calories from Fat 30); Total Fat 3g (Saturated Fat 1 1/2g, Trans Fat 0g); Cholesterol 5mg; Sodium 310mg; Total Carbohydrate 14g (Dietary Fiber 0g, Sugars 2g); Protein 2g

Percent Daily Value*: Vitamin A 4%; Vitamin C 0%; Calcium 6%; Iron 20%

Exchanges: 1 Starch; 0 Other Carbohydrate; 0 Vegetable; 1/2 Fat Carbohydrate Choices: 1

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Variation:
Next time, try a different variety of ranch dressing mix.

Did You Know...
Small pretzels and bite-size cheese crackers come in fun shapes. Have fun putting together a shapely combination!

Recipe and photograph provided courtesy of Betty Crocker 2007/TM General Mills