There is something truly special about a homemade snack that feels both nostalgic and exciting, and this Roasting Pan Chex Mix Recipe hits that sweet spot beautifully. Packed with crunchy Corn and Rice Squares, savory nuts, and crunchy pretzels and bagel chips, all coated in a buttery, garlicky, and slightly tangy seasoning, this mix is the perfect munching companion for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game night, preparing snacks for a road trip, or just craving a satisfying nibble, this recipe brings together simple ingredients with a homemade touch that beats store-bought versions every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key because each one lends unique flavor and texture to this Roasting Pan Chex Mix Recipe. From crunchy cereal squares to salty nuts and the punch of Worcestershire sauce, every component plays a crucial role.
- 6 Tbsp butter, melted: This rich base binds all the flavors together and adds irresistible richness.
- 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory depth and umami kick that makes the mix truly savory.
- 1 tsp seasoned salt: Gives a balanced, slightly salty flavor that enhances every bite.
- ¾ tsp garlic powder: Garlic adds a lovely aromatic punch without overpowering the mix.
- ½ tsp onion powder: Complements the garlic for a well-rounded savory flavor.
- 3 cups Corn Squares (Chex): Crunchy, slightly sweet corn cereal pieces add great texture.
- 3 cups Rice Squares (Chex): Light and crispy, these contribute a subtle flavor and wonderful crunch.
- 1 cup pretzels: Adds saltiness and a satisfying crunch.
- 1 cup bagel chips, broken into bite-sized pieces: These bring an extra layer of crispy, toasty texture.
- 1 cup peanuts: Provide a hearty nutty flavor and heft that balances the cereals.
- 1 cup cashews: Creamy and slightly sweet, cashews give a buttery contrast.
How to Make Roasting Pan Chex Mix Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 250°F (120°C). This low temperature ensures the mix toasts evenly and gently, allowing all those flavors to meld beautifully without burning.
Step 2: Prepare the Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. This savory blend is the heart of your Roasting Pan Chex Mix Recipe, coating every morsel with a luscious, flavor-packed glaze.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients in Roasting Pan
Layer your Corn Squares, Rice Squares, pretzels, bagel chips, peanuts, and cashews into a large roasting pan. Using a roasting pan is perfect here because it provides ample space for stirring and even heat distribution during baking.
Step 4: Coat Everything Evenly
Pour the prepared butter mixture over the dry ingredients in the roasting pan. Then stir thoroughly, making sure every piece is evenly coated. This step is vital as it spreads those delicious flavors throughout the mix.
Step 5: Bake Low and Slow
Place the roasting pan in your preheated oven and bake for 2 hours. Every 20 minutes, take the pan out and stir the mixture well. This repeated stirring helps toast all pieces uniformly and achieves the perfect crunch without drying things out.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Once your mix is golden and fragrant, remove the pan from the oven and let the Chex mix cool completely. Cooling allows the coating to firm up nicely, guaranteeing every bite is satisfyingly crisp.
How to Serve Roasting Pan Chex Mix Recipe
Garnishes
If you want to add a little extra flair, sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme just after baking. These add a fresh aroma and a pop of color that makes your snack as pretty as it is delicious.
Side Dishes
This Roasting Pan Chex Mix Recipe works beautifully alongside dips such as creamy ranch, spicy mustard, or a tangy cheese spread. It also pairs exceptionally well with cold beverages, making it a hit at parties or casual get-togethers.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this mix in individual mason jars or small paper cones for easy grab-and-go snacking. You could even layer some in a clear glass bowl with mini skewers for a festive, shareable snack station.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your Roasting Pan Chex Mix Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay crunchy and fresh for up to two weeks, making it a perfect make-ahead snack.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the mix in a sealed bag or container. When ready to munch, just thaw at room temperature for a few hours and stir before serving.
Reheating
To refresh the crunch, spread the mix on a baking sheet and warm it in a low oven (around 250°F) for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will restore its toasted magic without overcooking.
FAQs
Can I customize the nuts used in this Roasting Pan Chex Mix Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap or add your favorite nuts like almonds or walnuts. Just keep in mind that different nuts may toast at slightly different rates, so watch carefully during baking.
Is it necessary to stir the mix every 20 minutes during baking?
Yes, stirring ensures even toasting and prevents burning. It also helps all pieces get coated uniformly with the buttery seasoning, which is essential for that iconic Chex mix flavor and texture.
Can I use a regular baking sheet instead of a roasting pan?
While a large baking sheet works, a roasting pan is preferred because its walls contain the mix better and make stirring easier. If using a baking sheet, use one with edges and stir gently to avoid spills.
How long does it take for the Roasting Pan Chex Mix Recipe to cool completely?
Depending on room temperature, it usually takes about 30 minutes for the mix to cool completely. Cooling is important because it allows the coating to set, giving you that perfect crunch.
Is Worcestershire sauce essential in this recipe?
Worcestershire sauce adds a unique savory umami note that really elevates the flavor. If you don’t have it, soy sauce or tamari can be a good substitute, but the taste profile will slightly change.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of this Roasting Pan Chex Mix Recipe baking in your kitchen. It’s a fantastic, crowd-pleasing snack that’s surprisingly easy to make and endlessly customizable. Give it a try and watch how quickly this crunchy, savory delight becomes your go-to treat for every fun moment.
Print
Roasting Pan Chex Mix Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Roasting Pan Chex Mix is a crunchy, savory snack mix perfect for gatherings or casual snacking. Made with a combination of Corn and Rice Chex, pretzels, bagel chips, peanuts, and cashews, all coated in a flavorful butter and Worcestershire sauce mixture, then slow roasted to perfection for a crispy texture and enhanced flavors.
Ingredients
Butter Mixture
- 6 Tbsp butter, melted
- 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp seasoned salt
- ¾ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
Snack Mix
- 3 cups Corn Squares (Chex)
- 3 cups Rice Squares (Chex)
- 1 cup pretzels
- 1 cup bagel chips, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup peanuts
- 1 cup cashews
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 250°F (120°C) to prepare for slow roasting the snack mix.
- Prepare Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, garlic powder, and onion powder until the ingredients are fully combined, creating a flavorful coating.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large roasting pan, add the Corn Squares, Rice Squares, pretzels, broken bagel chips, peanuts, and cashews, mixing them thoroughly.
- Coat the Mix: Pour the prepared butter mixture evenly over the ingredients in the roasting pan, stirring well to ensure that every piece is coated with the buttery seasoning.
- Bake: Place the roasting pan into the preheated oven and bake for 2 hours. Stir the mixture every 20 minutes to promote even toasting and prevent burning, allowing the flavors to meld and the mix to become crispy.
- Cool and Enjoy: Once baking is complete, remove the pan from the oven and allow the Chex mix to cool completely. Store the cooled mix in an airtight container for maximum freshness and enjoy as a crunchy, flavorful snack.
Notes
- Stirring every 20 minutes during baking is crucial to ensure even toasting and prevent any burning.
- Let the mix cool completely before storing to maintain its crunchiness.
- This recipe can be customized by swapping nuts or adding other favorite snack items.
- Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
- For a spicier version, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the butter mixture.
