Chex Mix is a classic snack, and making it in a crockpot takes the convenience and flavor to a whole new level. This slow-cooked version is perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply to have on hand for those times when you’re craving something salty, crunchy, and satisfying. By letting the crockpot work its magic, you get a perfectly toasted, flavorful Chex Mix that’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Making Chex Mix in the crockpot is a game-changer for a few reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy and requires very little hands-on time. I just dump the ingredients in the crockpot, stir it occasionally, and let it do the work. It’s also a great way to make a big batch, perfect for parties, movie nights, or road trips. Plus, the slow-cooking process really helps the flavors meld together beautifully. Every bite is packed with a delicious mix of savory, buttery goodness with just the right amount of crunch.
Ingredients
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4 cups of Rice Chex cereal
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4 cups of Corn Chex cereal
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1 cup of mixed nuts
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1 cup of pretzel twists
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1 cup of cheddar goldfish crackers
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1/2 cup of unsalted butter (melted)
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1/4 cup of Worcestershire sauce
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1 tablespoon of seasoned salt
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1 teaspoon of garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika (optional for added flavor)
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Start by spraying the inside of your crockpot with a light coat of cooking spray. This helps prevent the Chex Mix from sticking.
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In the crockpot, combine the Rice Chex, Corn Chex, mixed nuts, pretzels, and goldfish crackers. Stir them together so they’re evenly distributed.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika until fully combined.
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Pour the butter mixture evenly over the dry ingredients in the crockpot. Gently stir to ensure that everything is well coated.
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Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to make sure everything is getting evenly toasted.
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Once the Chex Mix is golden brown and crispy, remove it from the crockpot and let it cool completely before serving.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes approximately 10 servings. The cooking time is about 2 to 3 hours on low heat. I find that stirring every 30 minutes helps ensure that the mix cooks evenly and doesn’t burn.
Variations
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Sweet and Salty: For a sweet twist, I sometimes add a handful of M&Ms or candy-coated chocolates once the Chex Mix has finished cooking and cooled a little.
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Spicy: To add a kick, I sprinkle some cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce into the butter mixture before pouring it over the dry ingredients.
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Vegan: Replace the butter with a plant-based butter alternative, and make sure the Worcestershire sauce you use is vegan-friendly.
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Cheese Lover’s: Add in a cup of shredded cheese, like cheddar, towards the end of the cooking process for a cheesy version of Chex Mix.
Storage/Reheating
To store leftover Chex Mix, simply place it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. If you want to keep it even longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, spread it out on a baking sheet and heat in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes to restore some of its crispiness.
FAQs
How long will my Chex Mix stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container, your Chex Mix should stay fresh for up to 2 weeks at room temperature. If you freeze it, it can last up to 3 months.
Can I make Chex Mix without a crockpot?
Yes, you can definitely make Chex Mix in the oven. Simply spread the ingredients on a baking sheet and bake at 250°F for about 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
Can I make Chex Mix spicier?
Absolutely! I like to add cayenne pepper or chili powder to kick up the heat. You can also try adding hot sauce to the butter mixture for an extra layer of spice.
Can I use different types of cereal?
Yes! You can use any combination of cereals that you like. Some people even swap out some of the Chex for Cheerios, Wheat Chex, or Honey Nut Chex for a slightly different flavor profile.
Can I add more or fewer ingredients to the mix?
Of course! One of the best things about Chex Mix is that it’s so customizable. Feel free to increase or decrease any of the ingredients based on your preferences. I sometimes add extra pretzels or nuts, depending on what I have available.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Chex Mix recipe is perfect for anyone who loves a salty, crunchy snack. The slow-cooked process makes it easy to achieve that ideal texture, and the flavor is just out of this world. Whether you’re preparing for a party or just craving a snack, this Chex Mix is sure to hit the spot!
Print
Crockpot Chex Mix
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 to 3 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and easy-to-make Crockpot Chex Mix that combines crunchy cereals, nuts, pretzels, and Goldfish crackers with a buttery, savory seasoning blend, perfect for parties or as a snack.
Ingredients
- 4 cups of Rice Chex cereal
- 4 cups of Corn Chex cereal
- 1 cup of mixed nuts
- 1 cup of pretzel twists
- 1 cup of cheddar goldfish crackers
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/4 cup of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon of seasoned salt
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika (optional for added flavor)
Instructions
- Start by spraying the inside of your crockpot with a light coat of cooking spray. This helps prevent the Chex Mix from sticking.
- In the crockpot, combine the Rice Chex, Corn Chex, mixed nuts, pretzels, and goldfish crackers. Stir them together so they’re evenly distributed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika until fully combined.
- Pour the butter mixture evenly over the dry ingredients in the crockpot. Gently stir to ensure that everything is well coated.
- Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to make sure everything is getting evenly toasted.
- Once the Chex Mix is golden brown and crispy, remove it from the crockpot and let it cool completely before serving.
Notes
- This recipe makes approximately 10 servings.
- Stir every 30 minutes to ensure an even toast.
- For variations, try adding M&Ms for sweetness, cayenne for heat, or shredded cheese for a cheesy version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/10 of recipe
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg