These Ranch Oyster Crackers are dangerously addictive in the best way possible! They're the kind of snack you make and somehow polish them off by the next day. My mom's made them for years, and it's rare to leave her house without a container of them being tucked into my bag. Eat them straight from the bowl, use them to top a warm bowl of soup, or add them to a party snack mix, but they won't last long!
This recipe has been passed down in our family for years, and it's one of those nostalgic snacks that everyone seems to remember from childhood potlucks and holiday gatherings. The beauty of homemade seasoned crackers like these is that they're incredibly easy to throw together with just a few pantry staples. Oil, ranch seasoning mix, garlic, dill, and a couple bags of oyster crackers is all you need.
If you've never tried making your own, you're in for a treat. And if you have, well, it's time to bring them back into your snack plan!
What Are Ranch Oyster Crackers?
Ranch oyster crackers are a simple, savory snack made by tossing plain oyster crackers with a flavorful mix of ranch seasoning, oil, herbs, and spices, then baking them until they're perfectly crispy. They're wildly popular for snacking, especially during the holidays or as a party snack. They're quick to make, easy to customize, and definitely easy to eat! They're also easy on the wallet, which is always a good thing.
Ingredients You'll Need
Just a handful of pantry staples come together to create these easy and irresistible Ranch Oyster Crackers:
- Oyster Crackers (2 bags, about 16 oz total): These small, round crackers are bite-sized with a light, crisp texture. They're ideal for absorbing all that savory ranch flavor without getting soggy.
- Vegetable or Canola Oil (1 cup): Oil helps the seasoning stick and gives the crackers that perfect golden crisp when baked. Canola, vegetable, or avocado oil all work well.
- Ranch Dressing Mix (1 oz packet): Ranch seasoning adds incredible flavor with little effort. You can use store-bought or homemade dry ranch mix.
- Garlic Salt or Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon): Garlic salt gives a punch of flavor and a salty kick. Use garlic powder if you're watching sodium.
- Dried Dill (½ teaspoon): A little dill adds brightness and rounds out the flavors.
- Optional Add-ins: Feel free to customize with cayenne pepper, a DIY lemon pepper spice blend, or even parmesan cheese (see variations below!).
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making these seasoned Ranch Oyster Crackers is quick and easy! Here's how to do it:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 200°F. A low and slow bake helps the oil and seasoning absorb into the crackers without burning.
- Make the seasoning mixture: In a large mixing bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the oil, dry ranch dressing mix, garlic salt (or garlic powder), and dried dill. Whisk until the mixture is well combined and the seasonings are evenly distributed in the oil.
- Toss with crackers: Place the oyster crackers into a large mixing bowl. Pour the seasoned oil mixture over the crackers, then toss them gently but thoroughly until all the crackers are coated.
- Bake until crisp: Spread the coated crackers in an even layer on a large baking sheet (or two if needed for space). Bake at 200°F for 15 minutes, then stir and bake for another 15 minutes. Stirring halfway through will prevent soggy spots and make sure they all crisp evenly.
- Cool and store: Remove the crackers from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. Once they're completely cool, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Flavor Variations
One of the best things about Ranch Oyster Crackers is how easy they are to customize. If you like a little heat, extra cheese, or even a completely different flavor, there's a version for everyone. Here are some of our favorite ways to switch things up:
- Spicy Ranch Oyster Crackers: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix. You can also use Spicy Ranch seasoning mix if you find it in stores.
- Cheesy Ranch Crackers: After baking for 15 minutes, remove from the oven and sprinkle with ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese. Return to the oven and bake for the remaining 15 minutes.
- Italian-Style Oyster Crackers: Replace the ranch seasoning with Italian dressing mix. Add a pinch of crushed rosemary, oregano, or basil for even more flavor.
- Taco-Seasoned Crackers: Swap the ranch mix for taco seasoning. They're great served as a crunchy topping for hearty beanless beef chili or easy tortilla soup with chicken!
- Buffalo Ranch Crackers: Use half ranch mix and half buffalo seasoning or toss in a splash of Frank's RedHot powder.
- Old Bay Crackers: Replace the ranch with Old Bay seasoning for a seafood-friendly flavor that's perfect with clam chowder or lobster bisque. This version is especially popular on the East Coast and pairs beautifully with creamy soups.
How to Store
- Let the crackers cool completely after baking so they don't lose their crispy texture.
- Store them in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature.
- They'll stay fresh and crunchy for up to 10-14 days (though they rarely last that long!).
Can You Make Them Ahead?
Ranch Oyster Crackers are a great make-ahead recipe:
- Make a double or triple batch for parties or gifting. I'm not kidding when I say that my mom always sends everyone home with a big bag, and we all look forward to it!
- Perfect for easy prep before the holidays, road trips, or tailgates.
- The flavors get even better after a day or two, once the seasoning fully absorbs into the crackers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade ranch seasoning instead of a packet?
A homemade ranch mix works great. Just be sure it includes ingredients like dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, and dried buttermilk.
Are Ranch Oyster Crackers gluten-free?
Not by default as most oyster crackers contain wheat. To make this recipe gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oyster crackers and double-check your ranch seasoning mix for hidden gluten.
Can I use a different type of oil?
You can, but be sure to use a neutral-flavored oil. Vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil are all good choices. Olive oil works too, but it may slightly alter the flavor.
Can I air fry Ranch Oyster Crackers?
Yes, with a few adjustments. Toss the crackers in the oil and seasoning mixture, then air fry in batches at 300°F for 6-8 minutes, shaking halfway through. Watch them closely to make sure they don't get too browned.
Can I double or halve the recipe?
This recipe is very flexible and you can easily halve it for a smaller batch or double it. Just be sure to use multiple baking sheets if you double or triple it.
How can I make these less salty?
Use garlic powder instead of garlic salt and choose a low-sodium ranch mix. You can also cut back slightly on the ranch seasoning or use a DIY version with reduced salt.
Ranch Oyster Crackers
This recipe has been passed down and makes the best ranch oyster crackers! Serve them as a snack or to top a bowl of warm soup.
Ingredients
- 1 cup vegetable or canola oil
- 1 1-oz package dry ranch dressing mix
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt, or garlic powder if you prefer less salt
- ½ teaspoon dried dill
- 2 bags oyster crackers, about 16 ounces each
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200F.
- Whisk together the oil, ranch dressing, garlic salt or powder and dried dill. In a large bowl, toss well with oyster crackers. Spread the crackers onto a large baking sheet and place in oven.
- Bake for 15 minutes, stir, then bake another 15 minutes and remove them from oven. Allow them to cool then enjoy! Store in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 12 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 186Total Fat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 659mgCarbohydrates: 32gFiber: 2gSugar: 1gProtein: 5g
This data was provided and calculated by Nutritionix.
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Scott Jones says
I make these for a Christmas gift to honor a friend’s grandmother. Tasty love for several generations!
Beth Moore says
Just made these (only used 3/4 cup olive oil as you mentioned in your post about perhaps wanting to use a bit less) and added onion powder (just a few shakes). Turned out fantastic! Thanks so much for the recipe!
Debbie M says
Can I use a package of hidden valley ranch dressing that is to be mixed with buttermilk for these crackers?
Kristy Bernardo says
I don't see why not!
Julie L says
My mom made these as a special treat for my sister and I when we were small kiddos. I loved them! When I make this recipe, I double the oil, use two packs of the ranch seasoning mix, double the oyster crackers, and I add into the cracker mix one box of cheez-its, and half a bag of mini (unsalted) pretzel twists. It makes a tremendous amount of snack mix so it goes a long way...and everyone loves it!
Julie Studnicka says
Tuesday night on "This is Us" the game was what food doesn't taste better with Ranch or Chocolate. I think this recipe fits.
Lindsay Cotter says
These look so delicious! They'll be great over homemade soups and chilis!
Katie says
These are a super popular snack around my house over the holidays- they always go so fast! Delicious and so easy!
Erin says
These are addicting, I could snack on them all day long!
Jennifer Blake says
I have only ever had oyster crackers in my New England Clam Chowder and they are always plain. I never thought to flavored them but I love that idea whether for compliments to even more soups or just to snack on! Love this!
Dona says
How long will these snacks stay fresh?
Kristy Bernardo says
I genuinely don't know because we eat them pretty fast, lol! It's funny that you're asking because I actually JUST had some five minutes ago that my mom left here. I would say at least a week if they're kept in a sealed container.
Jen Moore says
These are great, but I think that the package/ounces may be off. I didn't find any 16 oz bags of oyster crackers, I found 9 oz bags. I used 3 1/2 bags, and it was definitely lacking in flavor!! I'm wondering if the original recipe that called for 2 bags were actually two smaller packages. I'm trying again today with 2 1/2 bags. (I don't want it TOO" ranchy")
Erin @ Platings and Pairings says
Gosh - I forgot about these! My mom used to make them to - Definitely going to need to revisit! Thanks for the memories 🙂
Kristy Bernardo says
I'm so glad, Erin! Those are the best kind of memories 🙂
John@Kitchen Riffs says
Fun recipe! And one that's new to me, so I'm glad you decided to post it. Really tasty stuff -- thanks.
Kristy Bernardo says
Thanks, John!
Brandon @ Kitchen Konfidence says
Mmm, I'd love to sprinkle these over some homemade chicken noodle soup!!
Kristy Bernardo says
They're great on soup, Brandon! Especially chicken noodle 🙂
Heather at Basilmomma says
I love that her recipe cards look like so many that I have from my mom/grandmother! My kids will love these because Ranch anything is always a hit- but these kicked up oyster crackers look addictive!
Kristy Bernardo says
Thanks, Heather!
Kiano Moju says
Just made soup the other day but really wanted something with it and both bread and saltines didn't seem too appealing. Definitely keeping seasoned oyster crackers in mind for my next batch.
Kristy Bernardo says
Oh yeah, these are great with soup! Thanks, Kiano 🙂
Melissa Machowski says
The first thing I thought of when I read this was "these would be great at a wine-tasting!". I love the simplicity and I can't wait to try making these. I lived in California for awhile and in Paso Robles at a lot of the tasting rooms there were pretzels kind of like this, and I would always buy a couple of bags of them because they were so addicting. I think I'll try first with oyster crackers, but then see what happens with pretzel sticks too! Thanks for sharing!
Kristy Bernardo says
They'd be great with pretzel sticks, Melissa! I've made spicy pretzels similar to these and they're really good. Thanks!
Susan@LunaCafe says
I've not only never tried these, I've never heard of them. 🙂 I have a secret love for ranch dressing though (the stuff in the package). I'm afraid I would power through an entire batch of oyster crackers in one sitting though. So I'll cut back the oil somewhat on the first batch and see if that works. Thank you! 🙂
Kristy Bernardo says
My pleasure, Susan!
Ashley @ Big Flavors from a Tiny Kitchen says
These types of snacks are the most addictive! YUM!
Kristy Bernardo says
Agreed, Ashley!
Kristina says
I cannot wait to try this! I love ranch, and oyster crackers have always been a favorite. I have been revisiting my mom's recipes from my childhood too - such fun nostalgia!
Kristy Bernardo says
Isn't it fun?? Nothing like Mom's recipes 🙂