Ranch Oyster Crackers

Everyone loves these ranch oyster crackers. Dubious? Just put out a bowl, and watch. These seasoned crackers delight people and keep them coming back for more, whether it's a new discovery or—more likely—a flashback to snackage of yore.

The first crunchy bites of ranch oyster crackers remind many of us that someone made these for us when we were growing up, or perhaps we used to make them ourselves as one of the first things we learned to cook. The big question is why on earth did we stop? They're easy, quick, and keep for days in an airtight container, although it's doubtful they'll last that long. (Did I mention that everyone loves these things?) 

Learn how to make ranch oyster crackers. These little crackers are notably crisp and just salty and savory enough to be delicious and satisfying.

Ingredients for Ranch Oyster Crackers

You can probably make these crackers with just a quick visit to your pantry. You'll need:

• Butter: For great buttery flavor, and to help the seasonings adhere to the crackers.
• Dry ranch salad dressing mix: For a classic savory, creamy flavor.
• Dried dill: An extra hint of herbs.
• Lemon pepper: A bright, zesty flavor and peppery bite.
• Garlic and onion powder or granulated garlic and onion: Seasons the crackers with a deep savory flavor.
• Oyster crackers: Little bite-sized crackers for easy grabbing that bake up golden and crisp.

How To Make Ranch Oyster Crackers

Full instructions are below, but here's a brief recap before you get started:

• Step 1. Prepare: Heat the oven to 250°F.
• Step 2. Make the seasoning mix: Whisk to combine butter with remaining ingredients (except crackers).
• Step 3. Combine crackers and seasoning: Pour the oyster crackers into a large bowl. Drizzle in the butter mixture and stir to coat. Pour onto a baking sheet.
• Step 4. Bake oyster crackers: Bake for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through. Cool and store in an airtight container.

Tips for the Best Ranch Oyster Crackers

This recipe is so simple, but here are a couple of tips nonetheless:

• Start fresh: Start with a freshly opened bag of puffy oyster crackers. They're tastier, crunchier, and cuter than flat or chipped crackers that might have grown stale.
• Use butter: Many of the recipes for ranch oyster crackers that we'd find in our mom's recipe box or a beloved community cookbook called for a cup of oil, which can turn the crackers greasy and heavy. Using melted butter, and half that amount, adds flavor and helps brown the crackers beautifully.
• Bake till golden: While you may be able to bake these crackers for less time (or not at all), we prefer to bake until golden brown for a buttery, crisp texture.
• Use for topping: Scarf these little gems by the handful, or use them to perk up a salad or bowl of soup. 

Variations for Ranch Oyster Crackers

Whether you stick with this recipe as is, or change up the seasonings, these easy crackers are an easy snack that can be customized with a variety of flavors. Feel free to change up the seasonings in an equal quantity, using any spices or herbs you prefer. Sprinkle in cayenne for heat, dried herbs like oregano or thyme, taco seasoning in the place of ranch, a sprinkling of parmesan cheese, or any other flavorings you love.

If preferred, you can also substitute the butter with oil, although we prefer the flavor and texture that butter provides.

How To Store Ranch Oyster Crackers

These crackers can be prepared well in advance for a handy snack whenever guests come by (if you can keep them hidden away, that is). Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If desired, you can warm lightly in the oven before serving.

More Crave-Worthy Snack Recipes You'll Love

When cravings hit, it's always good to have homemade snacks on hand. These snack mixes, seasoned crackers, and toasted nuts are perfect for midday or late-night snacking:

• Charcuterie-Board Snack Mix
• Crack Crackers
• Nuts and Bolts
• Butter-Baked Saltine Crackers
• Bacon Bites
• Pickapeppa Snack Mix
• Buttery Toasted Pecans
• Smoky Snack Mix

Editorial contributions by Katie Rosenhouse.