Air Fryer Cheesy Ranch Crackers Recipe

Name: Air Fryer Cheesy Ranch Crackers
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 12 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 3 cups cheese crackers, such as CHEEZ-IT (R); non-stick cooking spray; 1 tablespoon ranch salad dressing mix powder

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Cheese Crackers with Ranch Seasoning

This simple and delicious recipe for cheese crackers with a ranch seasoning twist can be made quickly in your air fryer. Its a perfect snack for any occasion, combining crispy crackers with a savory ranch flavor!

Ingredients

3 cups cheese crackers (such as CHEEZ-IT)
Cooking spray
1 tablespoon ranch salad dressing mix

Directions

Preheat your air fryer to 240F (115C).
Place the cheese crackers in a large mixing bowl.
Lightly spray the crackers with non-stick cooking spray and toss to coat them evenly.
Spray the crackers with cooking spray again and toss to coat once more.
Add the ranch salad dressing mix to the bowl and toss the crackers gently to ensure an even coating of the seasoning.
Place the seasoned crackers into the air fryer basket and cook for 5 minutes.
After 5 minutes, shake the basket to ensure even cooking. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the crackers are golden and toasted to your liking.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	177
Total Fat	8g
Saturated Fat	2g
Cholesterol	1mg
Sodium	697mg
Total Carbohydrates	22g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Total Sugars	2g
Protein	5g
Vitamin C	0mg
Calcium	66mg
Iron	2mg
Potassium	106mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

This simple and addictive snack is perfect for any occasion. Using just a few basic ingredients, including cheese crackers, ranch seasoning, and an air fryer, these cheesy ranch crackers are a delightful mix of crunch, flavor, and convenience.

History of the Dish

The concept of flavoring crackers with cheese and spices has been around for decades, but the use of ranch seasoning specifically became popular in the 1950s after its creation by Steve Henson, a plumber turned ranch dressing inventor. Originally created as a salad dressing and later popularized as a seasoning, ranch dressing became a staple in American kitchens. The combination of ranch with cheese crackers is a modern twist that capitalizes on the widespread love for both cheese and ranch flavors.

Regional Features

While cheese crackers are enjoyed across the United States, ranch-flavored snacks have a particularly strong following in the Midwest and Southern regions. The air fryer method of preparing the crackers is popular in many households across the country, as it offers a quick and healthier alternative to traditional baking or deep frying. The use of ranch dressing mix and cheese crackers is also seen as a nod to American convenience foods, which prioritize ease of preparation without compromising flavor.

What Makes It Different from Similar Dishes

What sets Air Fryer Cheesy Ranch Crackers apart from similar dishes is the combination of two iconic flavors: ranch and cheese. Many snack recipes use a simple seasoning mix or cheese powder, but the addition of ranch seasoning gives these crackers a creamy, tangy taste that's distinct from other cheese-flavored snacks. Additionally, preparing them in an air fryer ensures they are crispy and golden, making them healthier than traditional deep-fried versions.

Where Its Usually Served

Air Fryer Cheesy Ranch Crackers are a popular snack served at parties, game days, or as a quick appetizer at family gatherings. Their versatility also makes them a great addition to lunchboxes or as a light snack in between meals. They are typically served in a bowl for guests to snack on, but can also be packaged in individual servings for convenience.

Interesting Facts

Ranch dressing is the most popular salad dressing in the United States, surpassing even Italian and French dressings.
The air fryer, which originated in Europe in the 2010s, has revolutionized the way people prepare crispy snacks like fries, chicken wings, and crackers with little to no oil.
Cheez-Its, one of the most popular brands of cheese crackers, have been around since 1921 and are known for their distinctive square shape and bold flavor.
This recipe is highly adaptable and can be customized with different seasonings or types of crackers, allowing you to create your own unique twist on this popular snack.

Conclusion

Whether youre a fan of cheesy snacks, ranch flavor, or simply looking for a quick and easy treat, Air Fryer Cheesy Ranch Crackers are the perfect choice. They combine the best of American snack culture in one delicious bite. With minimal ingredients and preparation time, they offer a satisfying crunch that will keep everyone coming back for more.

FAQ about Air Fryer Cheesy Ranch Crackers Recipe

Store the cheesy ranch crackers in an airtight container at room temperature. They should remain fresh for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them for longer, consider storing them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Yes, you can prepare these crackers ahead of time. After cooking, allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. You can make them a day or two in advance and enjoy them as a quick snack.

Yes, you can experiment with different seasonings! You can try using garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or even a mix of dried herbs. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.

You can use any cheese crackers you prefer, but popular choices like CHEEZ-IT® or Goldfish® work best for this recipe. The crackers should be crispy and sturdy enough to hold up to the seasoning and air frying.

While this recipe is designed for an air fryer, you can use a traditional oven. Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C), spread the crackers on a baking sheet in a single layer, and bake for about 10 minutes, shaking halfway through.

If you want to add some heat, you can sprinkle in some cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or chili powder along with the ranch seasoning. Adjust the amount based on your preferred spice level.

Yes, you can freeze the crackers for up to 1 month. Make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe, airtight bag or container. To eat, simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispness.

If you don't have non-stick cooking spray, you can lightly coat the crackers with vegetable oil or melted butter using a brush or a drizzle. Just be careful not to over-saturate them.

Yes, you can! You can substitute the ranch dressing mix with other dry seasoning mixes or homemade spice blends. Try using a combination of dried herbs, garlic powder, and onion powder for a flavorful alternative.

The total cooking time for the crackers is around 10 minutes in the air fryer, divided into two 5-minute intervals. Make sure to shake the basket after the first 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and crisping.

Cook Time: 22 minutes

Air Fryer Cheesy Ranch Crackers Recipe