Southern 4-Ingredient Spicy Saltines

Yield

8 snack servings

Prep time

5 minutes

Cook time

15 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 sleeve saltine crackers, approximately 4 ounces (113 g)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon dry ranch seasoning mix
• 1–2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Stir the melted butter, ranch seasoning, and red pepper flakes together until evenly combined. Use 1 teaspoon of flakes for gentler heat or 2 teaspoons for a stronger kick.
3. Place the saltines in a large bowl. Drizzle the butter mixture over them in several additions, gently turning the crackers between additions to distribute the seasoning without breaking them.
4. Let stand for about 1 minute, then arrange the crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon any remaining seasoning mixture evenly over them.
5. Bake for 12–15 minutes, gently turning the crackers halfway through, until lightly golden and fragrant. Avoid darkening the edges or scorching the seasoning.
6. Let cool completely on the baking sheet before serving or transferring to an airtight container.

Kitchen notes

Timing guide: Preparation takes about 5 minutes (estimated). Bake for 12–15 minutes; the cook time shown above uses the upper end of this range. Cool until completely cool before serving or storing. Cooling time varies and is not included in a total time.

Practical Woman's Secret
Stir the butter mixture again between drizzles because the ranch seasoning and pepper flakes settle quickly. Use a broad silicone spatula to lift and turn the crackers gently.

Serving and Storage
Serve at room temperature as a spicy snack or alongside soup. Once completely cool, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Keep away from heat and humidity, and avoid sealing while warm, which can trap moisture and soften the crackers.