Print

Easy Cheddar Ranch Popcorn Snack Mix (Best 10-Minute Recipe)

cheddar ranch popcorn snack mix - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy snack mix made with popcorn, cheddar cheese powder, and ranch seasoning. Perfect for parties, game nights, or any gathering, this addictive treat comes together in just 10 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups popped popcorn (about 1/3 cup unpopped kernels, or one standard bag of microwave popcorn)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons cheddar cheese powder
  • 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 cup pretzel twists, broken into pieces (optional)
  • 1 cup cheese crackers like Cheez-Its or Goldfish (optional)
  • 1/2 cup roasted peanuts or almonds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pop the popcorn. If using an air popper, pop 1/3 cup kernels according to manufacturer instructions. If using microwave popcorn, pop one standard bag of plain or lightly salted popcorn. Transfer to a very large bowl. Remove any unpopped kernels.
  2. Make the seasoning blend. In a small bowl, whisk together the cheddar cheese powder, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne if using. Set aside.
  3. Melt the butter. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in 20-second increments until fully liquid. If using olive oil, whisk it into the melted butter.
  4. Drizzle and toss. Drizzle the butter mixture over the warm popcorn in a steady stream while tossing with one hand.
  5. Add the seasoning. Sprinkle the seasoning blend over the buttered popcorn, about a third at a time, tossing well between each addition. Keep tossing until every kernel looks coated.
  6. Add mix-ins (optional). If using pretzels, cheese crackers, or nuts, gently fold them in now.
  7. Spread to cool. Pour the seasoned popcorn onto a parchment-lined baking sheet in an even layer. Let it cool for 5 minutes.
  8. Taste and adjust. Give it a taste test. Need more salt? Add a pinch. Want more heat? Another dash of cayenne.

Notes

Work quickly while popcorn is warm for best coating. Use your hands to toss for even distribution. For double batches, make separately to avoid uneven coating. The flavors improve after a day. To revive crunch, reheat at 300°F for 5 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: popcorn snack mix, cheddar ranch popcorn, easy snack mix, party snack, 10-minute recipe, game day snack, movie night snack

Find it online: https://lumalunch.com/easy-cheddar-ranch-popcorn-snack-mix-best-10-minute-recipe/