Description: These addictive little bites are a surefire crowd-pleaser! Buttery, garlicky Ritz Bits crackers are elevated with a blend of savory spices and a generous topping of cheddar cheese, creating a snack that’s impossible to resist. Perfect for parties, game nights, or simply satisfying a craving, these Garlic Ritz Snacks are quick, easy, and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 (8 oz) box Ritz Bits crackers
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon dried parsley
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt (to taste)
Preparation:
These little crackers are not only a breeze to make, but they are also really fun. They make the perfect treat when you are in a hurry and don’t want to spend a lot of time preparing a snack.
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the crackers bake evenly and the cheese melts beautifully without burning. Setting up your oven first makes the whole process flow smoothly.
Step 2:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Parchment paper prevents the crackers from sticking to the baking sheet, making cleanup a breeze. It also helps to ensure that the bottoms of the crackers don’t over-brown. Alternatively, you could use a silicone baking mat, but parchment paper is usually the easiest option.
Step 3:
In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, paprika, and Parmesan cheese until smooth. This butter mixture is the key to infusing the Ritz Bits with flavor. Make sure the butter is completely melted so it coats the spices evenly. The Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty dimension that complements the other seasonings perfectly. Whisking everything together ensures a smooth, consistent sauce. If you want to add a little bit of a kick to the flavor, add a dash of cayenne pepper.
Step 4:
Add the Ritz Bits to the bowl and gently toss to coat evenly with the butter mixture. Gently tossing prevents the crackers from breaking. Ensure every cracker is coated in the buttery spice mixture. This step is crucial for distributing the flavor throughout the entire batch. A large bowl is best for this step to provide room for tossing without crushing the crackers.
Step 5:
Spread the coated crackers evenly on the baking sheet. Spreading the crackers in a single layer allows them to bake evenly. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this can result in some crackers being undercooked or sticking together. Take a little extra time to arrange them neatly; it makes a difference in the final product.
Step 6:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. The cheddar cheese melts into a gooey, cheesy blanket that elevates the crackers to a whole new level. Even distribution is key here. You can use other kinds of cheese, too, but cheddar is what most people have at home.
Step 7:
Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the crackers are golden. Keep a close eye on the oven. The baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven. You’re looking for the cheese to be melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown. The crackers should also be slightly toasted around the edges.
Step 8:
Let the crackers cool slightly before serving. Cooling allows the cheese to set slightly, preventing it from being too runny. It also prevents you from burning your mouth on the molten cheese! These snacks are best enjoyed warm, but they’re also delicious at room temperature.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
These Garlic Ritz Snacks are incredibly addictive because they’re the perfect combination of salty, buttery, and cheesy flavors. The simplicity of the recipe means you can whip up a batch in minutes, making them ideal for last-minute gatherings or quick snack cravings. They’re also incredibly versatile – you can customize the spices to your liking, making them a unique treat every time. The satisfying crunch of the Ritz Bits combined with the melted cheese and flavorful seasoning blend creates a truly irresistible snack experience. Plus, they are always a hit with both kids and adults.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm as an appetizer at parties or gatherings.
- Enjoy as a snack during game nights or movie nights.
- Pair with dips like ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a creamy garlic dip.
- Pack in lunchboxes for a savory treat.
- Serve alongside a bowl of soup for a comforting meal.
- Include on a charcuterie board for added flavor and texture.
- Offer as a simple yet satisfying snack for unexpected guests.
- Great for potlucks and picnics because they are easy to transport.
Tips:
- Use fresh, high-quality spices for the best flavor.
- Don’t overbake the crackers, or they’ll become too dry.
- Adjust the amount of garlic powder to your personal preference.
- Experiment with different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning to the butter mixture.
- Store leftover crackers in an airtight container to maintain their crispness.
- If you don’t have Ritz Bits, you can use regular Ritz crackers, but you may need to break them into smaller pieces.
- Make a large batch ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. Reheat briefly in the oven to refresh.
- If you want to get really creative, drizzle with a little balsamic glaze after baking for a sweet and savory twist.
Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 8-10 minutes Total Time: 13-15 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- (Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 120-150 calories per serving (serving size: about 10 crackers)
- Protein: Approximately 2-3 grams per serving
- Sodium: Approximately 150-200 mg per serving
Conclusion:
Garlic Ritz Snacks are the perfect solution for a quick, easy, and flavorful snack. Their simplicity and customizable nature make them a versatile option for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a movie night, or simply craving something savory, these little crackers are sure to hit the spot. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a batch of these irresistibly delicious Garlic Ritz Snacks! They’re guaranteed to disappear fast, so you might want to make a double batch. You have been warned!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use regular Ritz crackers instead of Ritz Bits? A: Yes, you can definitely use regular Ritz crackers. Simply break them into smaller, bite-sized pieces before coating them with the butter and spice mixture. Keep in mind that the baking time might need to be adjusted slightly, so keep a close eye on them.
Q2: Can I make these Garlic Ritz Snacks ahead of time? A: Absolutely! These crackers can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. To refresh them, you can briefly reheat them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes before serving. This will help restore their crispness.
Q3: What other cheeses can I use instead of cheddar cheese? A: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste preferences. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses would all work well. Consider using a cheese that melts easily for the best results.
Q4: Can I add any other spices or seasonings to the butter mixture? A: Absolutely! Get creative and add your favorite spices. Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (for a little heat), dried oregano, or even a pinch of smoked paprika can add a unique twist to the flavor. Just be sure not to overdo it – a little goes a long way!
Q5: Are these Garlic Ritz Snacks gluten-free? A: Unfortunately, Ritz crackers are not gluten-free. If you need a gluten-free option, you can try using gluten-free crackers as a substitute. Be sure to check the ingredient list to ensure that all the other ingredients you are using are also gluten-free. You can sometimes find gluten-free cheese crackers that are similar to Ritz, and those would be perfect for this recipe.
