These Garlic Ranch Pretzels are a crunchy snack that everyone will love! Coated in zesty ranch seasoning and garlic, they’re perfect for movie nights or game days.
Whenever I make these, my friends can’t resist munching on them! They’re super easy to whip up and make a great party snack. Plus, who doesn’t love a tasty twist on pretzels? 🥨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mini Pretzels: The heart of this recipe! You can use any shape of pretzels you prefer, like rods or twists. If you need a gluten-free option, there are gluten-free pretzels available in stores that work just as well.
Olive Oil: This is used for coating and helping the spices stick. If you want a different flavor, consider using melted butter or avocado oil instead. Both add a nice richness.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: You can use homemade ranch seasoning if you prefer. Just mix equal parts of dried herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. This way, you can control the flavor and ingredients!
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: If you have fresh garlic or onion, you can finely mince those instead. Just remember, fresh herbs can be more potent, so start with less and add to taste!
Smoked Paprika: This is optional but adds a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works perfectly fine, or you can skip it altogether.
Why is the Baking Step Important for Crunchy Pretzels?
The baking process is crucial for achieving that perfect crunch in your Garlic Ranch Pretzels! Here’s how to do it:
- Preheating: Make sure your oven is preheated to 300°F. This allows the pretzels to become crispy without burning.
- Baking Time: Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through. This ensures even toasting and prevents any pretzels from getting too brown.
- Cooling: Let the pretzels cool on the baking sheet. They will continue to crisp up as they cool down.
Watch closely during baking! Every oven is different, so adjust your time slightly if your pretzels seem to bake faster. Enjoy your snack time!
Garlic Ranch Pretzels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pretzel Coating:
- 12 ounces mini pretzels
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
- Coarse sea salt, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this recipe is about 25 to 30 minutes, including 10 minutes of prep and 15 to 20 minutes of baking time. It’s a quick and easy snack option to whip up in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This step is important to ensure your pretzels bake evenly and get that perfect crunch. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Coating:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir well until everything is blended and forms a nice seasoning oil mixture.
3. Coat the Pretzels:
Add the mini pretzels to the bowl, and gently toss them until they are evenly coated with the garlic ranch seasoning mixture. Make sure each pretzel is well covered!
4. Spread on Baking Sheet:
Once the pretzels are coated, spread them out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. This helps them bake evenly and get nice and crispy.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir the pretzels halfway through baking to ensure they toast evenly. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning and to get your desired crunchiness.
6. Add Final Touches:
When done, remove the pretzels from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. While they’re still warm, sprinkle coarse sea salt and chopped fresh parsley over the top for extra flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, transfer your Garlic Ranch Pretzels to a serving bowl. They’re ready to enjoy! Perfect for parties, movie nights, or just as a delicious snack!
Happy snacking! 🥨
Can I Use Different Types of Pretzels?
Absolutely! While mini pretzels work best for this recipe, you can use any shape you prefer, including pretzel rods or twists. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if needed, as larger pretzels may require a bit more time to bake.
Can I Make These Pretzels Spicier?
Yes, you can add a kick! Consider mixing in some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes with the seasonings. Start with a small amount and adjust to your preferred heat level.
How Do I Store Leftover Pretzels?
Store any leftover Garlic Ranch Pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them extra crunchy, avoid sealing them while they’re still warm.
Can I Make These Pretzels Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the coated pretzels a day in advance and then bake them shortly before you plan to serve them. Just be sure to keep the mixture covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
