Seasoned Crackers

1 pound servings Prep: 5 m Cook: PT0M Total: 8 h 5 m Beginner
This is one of our favorite recipes—the editors at RealCajunRecipes.com make these spicy ranch crackers at least once every holiday season. With saltine crackers, canola oil, red pepper flakes, and ranch dressing mix, they’re addictively crunchy and full of flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound box of saltine crackers
  • 1 1/3 cup canola oil
  • 1 1/3 tbsp crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 package dry ranch dressing mix (look for the seasoned brand)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Mix the canola oil, crushed red pepper flakes, and ranch dressing mix in a pint jar and shake well to combine.
  2. Use a one gallon container or jar and place one sleeve of crackers at a time.
  3. Layer with dressing mix 1/4 cup at a time, adding one sleeve of crackers at a time with 1/4 of mix poured over them.
  4. Seal the container and rotate (flip) jar every hour or so for 8 hours to evenly coat all crackers.
  5. And no, the crackers are not soggy—still crisp and taste wonderfully! C’est vrai oui!

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why are my crackers getting soggy?

A: Make sure you're using a container large enough that crackers aren't packed too tightly, and rotate/flip the container regularly during the 8-hour marinating time. The movement helps distribute the oil evenly without over-saturating any one cracker.

Q: Can I make these spicier or milder?

A: Absolutely! Adjust the red pepper flakes to your taste—start with 1 tablespoon for mild, or go up to 2 tablespoons if you like serious heat. You can also add a dash of cayenne pepper for extra Cajun kick.

Tips and Techniques

Use a gallon-size ziplock bag if you don’t have a large jar—it makes flipping and rotating much easier. These crackers actually get better after a day or two as the flavors continue to develop, so make them ahead for your next gathering.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • canola oil: vegetable oil or olive oil
  • saltine crackers: oyster crackers or Zesta crackers
  • ranch dressing mix: Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning packet

Equipment Needed

  • One gallon container or jar with lid
  • Pint jar or small bowl for mixing oil and seasonings