Quick & Easy Gourmet: Cheesy Popcorn Pretzel Snack Mix

Use either light microwave or air-popped corn for this recipe. Other flavors of fish-shaped crackers may be substituted for the Parmesan crackers. The sausage bites or bacon are a delicious, savory addition to the snack mix, but may be omitted.

5      cups popped popcorn

2  cups checkerboard or mini-pretzel twists

1  cup Parmesan-flavored fish-shaped crackers

½     cup deli mini-sausage bites, coarsely chopped, or pre-cooked real bacon bits (optional)

2       tablespoons butter, melted

2   tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

¾  teaspoon dried basil

¾  teaspoon dried thyme or oregano

?   Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

?   Combine popcorn, pretzels, fish-shaped crackers and sausage bites or bacon bits (optional) and spread on a 12x16-inch rimmed baking sheet.

?   Using a spoon, drizzle melted butter over the mixture.

?   Sprinkle Parmesan cheese, basil and thyme over the popcorn. Do not stir.

?   Bake for 7 to 8 minutes or until heated.

?   Remove from oven and stir. Cool in pan and serve. 

NOTE: This mix can be stored in an airtight container. If you include the sausage bites or bacon bits, store the snack mix in the refrigerator in an airtight container.