Cheesy Garlic Ritz Snack Bites – The Ultimate Savory Treat
Introduction
If you’re looking for a snack that’s quick, cheesy, full of flavor, and impossible to resist, these Cheesy Garlic Ritz Snacks are the answer. Made with simple ingredients and ready in under 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for game nights, movie evenings, or just satisfying your cheesy cravings. With the rich flavors of garlic, cheddar, and Parmesan, combined with the crunch of Ritz crackers, this snack will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need:
- 1 (8 oz) box Ritz Bits crackers (cheese or peanut butter-filled works well)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon dried parsley
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (for smoky flavor)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your choice)
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to keep the crackers from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Prepare the Flavor Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, paprika, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth and all the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Pro Tip: Freshly grated Parmesan will give a stronger flavor, but store-bought grated Parmesan works just fine too.
Step 3: Coat the Crackers
Add the Ritz Bits crackers to the butter and spice mixture. Using a spatula or your hands, gently toss them until every cracker is coated. Be gentle to avoid breaking the crackers.
Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Spread the coated crackers in a single, even layer on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re not stacked on top of each other, so they bake evenly.
Step 5: Add Cheddar Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the crackers. As it bakes, the cheddar will melt and create crispy, cheesy edges that enhance the flavor and texture of the snack.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden, and the crackers are toasty and crisp.
Watch Closely: All ovens vary. Check after 8 minutes to prevent burning.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Remove from the oven and let the crackers cool for a few minutes. This will help the cheese firm up slightly and allow the crackers to become extra crispy.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a side of ranch dip or garlic aioli.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat for 5 minutes at 300°F.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes before baking for a spicy twist.
Are These Snacks Healthy?
While they are definitely indulgent, you can make them a bit lighter by:
- Using reduced-fat cheeses
- Replacing butter with olive oil or a butter substitute
- Using whole grain or low-sodium crackers
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast: Ready in under 15 minutes from start to finish.
- Easy: Minimal prep and basic pantry ingredients.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Great for all ages and perfect for gatherings.
- Customizable: Add herbs, spices, or different cheeses to suit your taste.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a recipe that’s simple yet bursting with flavor, this Garlic Ritz Snack Bites recipe is the one. Perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or late-night cravings, these cheesy bites are quick to make and guaranteed to satisfy. Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms Bok Choy
Looking for more snack ideas? Try pairing these with [easy homemade dips], or explore our [top 10 savory snack recipes] for more inspiration!