Here’s the story behind this Southern snack.

Ingredients

16 oz. package of saltine crackers
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. onion powder
1/2 tsp. black pepper
4 Tbsp. (about 2 packages) ranch dressing mix
3 Tbsp. red pepper flakes
2 cups olive oil

Instructions

1. Using a large gallon Ziploc bag, pour in the olive oil, seasonings, and spices. Close the bag and knead to thoroughly mix the ingredients together.

2. Place all 4 sleeves of crackers in the bag, re-seal, and gently turn the bag over several times to coat the crackers with the spice mixture. The more times you do, this the better the coating.

3. Let the bag sit overnight.

4. Remove crackers and lay out on a baking sheet. Bake at 250°F for about 15 minutes.

From a different chef:

RANCH DRESSING MIX INGREDIENTS

4 tablespoons dried parsley
2 teaspoons dried dill weed
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Measure ingredients into a blender or mini food processor. Blend/pulse a few times until slightly broken down and well combined. Transfer the mixture to a small jar or other airtight container. Shake the seasoning mix well before measuring it out.

Use 1 1/2 tablespoons Homemade Ranch Dressing Mix as a substitute for a 1-ounce store-bought packet in recipes calling for dry ranch seasoning.