Step 3: Make the Flavor Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, paprika, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the spices are well blended into the butter.
Step 4: Coat the Crackers
Add the Ritz Bits crackers to the bowl and gently toss to ensure each cracker is evenly coated with the buttery, garlicky mixture.
Step 5: Layer and Cheese It Up
Spread the coated crackers evenly across your prepared baking sheet. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the tray in the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crackers are a light golden brown.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the crackers to cool slightly before serving. They’ll continue to crisp up as they cool, reaching peak snackability.
Serving Suggestions
These Garlic Ritz Snacks are incredibly versatile. Here’s how you can enjoy them:
- Party Platter Star: Serve them in a bowl alongside mixed nuts and pretzels.
- After-School Snack: A hit with kids and adults alike!
- Soup or Salad Topper: Crumble them over creamy tomato soup or a Caesar salad for an extra crunch.
- Beer or Wine Pairing: The bold garlic and cheese flavors pair beautifully with crisp beers or white wines like Sauvignon Blanc.
Variations and Customizations
Want to get creative? Here are some fun twists on the classic recipe:
🌶️ Spicy Kick
Add ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a fiery upgrade.
🧀 Triple Cheese Delight
Mix in some shredded mozzarella or pepper jack for even more cheesy depth.
🌿 Herb Garden
Swap dried parsley for Italian seasoning or add fresh minced herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Storage Tips
If (and that’s a big if) you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:
- Cool Completely: Before storing, make sure the crackers are fully cooled to prevent sogginess.
- Airtight Container: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–4 days.
- Reheat for Crunch: To refresh the crispness, pop them back in a 300°F oven for 3–5 minutes.
⚠️ Avoid refrigeration — it can make the crackers lose their crunch and become chewy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓ Can I use regular Ritz crackers instead of Ritz Bits?
Yes! If you use regular Ritz crackers, break them into halves or quarters so the seasoning sticks better and they bake more evenly.
❓ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. Just use a gluten-free cracker substitute like Glutino or Simple Mills crackers.
❓ Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes — you can make these up to a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container and reheat if desired.
❓ What if I don’t have parchment paper?
No problem. You can lightly grease your baking sheet with cooking spray instead. Just be cautious of the cheese sticking.
