Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chex mix is anything but boring. The Italian seasoning adds a unique and irresistible flavor that sets it apart from traditional versions. It’s easy to make in large batches, customizable to your favorite ingredients, and stays crunchy for days. Whether you’re snacking at home or sharing at an event, this seasoned mix is guaranteed to disappear fast.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Rice Chex cereal
- Corn Chex cereal
- Wheat Chex cereal
- Mini pretzels
- Cheese crackers (like Cheez-Its) or bagel chips
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Dried Italian seasoning
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- Butter, melted
- Worcestershire sauce
- Olive oil (optional for added flavor)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine Chex cereals, pretzels, and cheese crackers. Stir gently to mix.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter with Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Pour the seasoned butter mixture over the dry ingredients and toss well to coat evenly.
- Spread the mix in a single layer on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15–20 minutes for even crisping.
- Remove from the oven, let cool completely, then sprinkle with grated Parmesan if desired.
- Store in an airtight container once cooled.
Servings and timing
Makes about 12 cups
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
- Spicy version: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the butter mixture.
- Cheesy mix: Add more Parmesan or use cheese-flavored crackers and bagel chips.
- Nutty option: Mix in roasted almonds, cashews, or peanuts for extra crunch.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free Chex and pretzels.
- Herb upgrade: Add a pinch of dried rosemary or thyme for extra depth.
Storage/Reheating
Store cooled Chex mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Do not refrigerate, as it can make the mix stale. Re-crisp in a 250°F (120°C) oven for 10 minutes if needed.
FAQs
Can I make this Chex mix in the microwave?
Yes. Microwave on high in 1-minute intervals for 5–6 minutes, stirring between each minute. Spread on parchment to cool.
What’s the best butter to use?
Unsalted butter works best so you can control the seasoning. Add salt to taste if needed.
Can I use store-bought Italian dressing mix?
Yes, you can swap the herbs and spices for a packet of dry Italian dressing mix for extra convenience.
How do I keep the mix from burning?
Bake low and slow at 250°F, stirring often. Watch closely in the last 15 minutes.
Is Parmesan cheese necessary?
No, it’s optional—but it adds a nice umami kick and extra flavor.
Can I make this mix ahead of time?
Yes, it stores well and is great for prepping several days in advance.
What other seasonings work well?
Try smoked paprika, ranch seasoning, or even lemon pepper for fun variations.
How do I make it extra crispy?
Be sure to spread the mix out evenly in a single layer on the baking sheet and stir regularly while baking.
What’s the best way to serve this mix?
Serve in bowls at parties, pack in snack bags, or add to charcuterie boards.
Can I freeze Chex mix?
It’s not recommended—freezing can affect the texture. It’s best stored in a cool, dry place.
Conclusion
Italian Seasoned Savory Chex Mix is the ultimate crunchy, zesty snack that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. With bold Italian flavors and a buttery, seasoned coating, it’s the perfect party snack or on-the-go treat. Make a batch (or two), and enjoy every savory handful!
PrintItalian Seasoned Savory Chex Mix
Italian Seasoned Savory Chex Mix is a crunchy, zesty twist on the classic snack mix, featuring Italian herbs, garlic, and a savory butter coating. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or homemade gifts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 cups
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 3 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 3 cups Corn Chex cereal
- 2 cups Wheat Chex cereal
- 2 cups mini pretzels
- 2 cups cheese crackers (like Cheez-Its)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for added flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
- In a large bowl, combine Rice Chex, Corn Chex, Wheat Chex, pretzels, and cheese crackers.
- In a separate bowl, mix melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and olive oil (if using).
- Pour the seasoned butter mixture over the dry mix and toss until evenly coated.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15–20 minutes for even baking.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired and store in an airtight container.
Notes
- Use gluten-free ingredients for a gluten-free version.
- Add nuts like cashews or almonds for extra crunch.
- Can be made in the microwave in shorter time.
- Let cool completely before storing to retain crispness.
- Perfect for holiday gifting in treat bags or jars.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg