Name: Garlic Ritz Snacks
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 12 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 (8.8 oz) boxes cheese Ritz Bits; 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese

Jump to Recipe

If you’re in need of a quick, tasty snack that’s perfect for any occasion, these Garlic Ritz Snacks are exactly what you need. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a savory, crunchy treat that will keep everyone coming back for more. These little bites of goodness are made with the classic, beloved Ritz Bits, loaded with garlic, Parmesan, and a touch of Italian seasoning. The buttery, garlicky flavor combines perfectly with the crispy crunch of the crackers, making them an irresistible snack for any party, movie night, or casual get-together.

The best part? These Garlic Ritz Snacks come together in just minutes, requiring minimal effort but delivering maximum flavor. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or just craving something savory to munch on, these easy-to-make bites will satisfy your snack cravings. The richness of the butter and Parmesan pairs wonderfully with the aromatic garlic and Italian herbs, making each bite a delightful experience. Once you’ve tried these, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your snack repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep work.
Perfect for Parties: These crispy snacks are ideal for entertaining, adding a touch of savory flavor to any spread.
Rich and Flavorful: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning makes these bites incredibly flavorful.
Versatile: Great for a snack on its own, or served alongside other appetizers at gatherings.
Kid-Friendly: With the familiar taste of Ritz Bits, kids will love snacking on these crunchy treats.

Ingredients

Cheese Ritz Bits crackers
Melted butter
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Italian seasoning
Grated Parmesan cheese

Variations

Spicy Garlic Ritz Snacks: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to give these snacks a spicy kick.
Herb-Infused: Swap the Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a unique twist.
Cheesy Extra: Mix in extra shredded cheese, like mozzarella or cheddar, for an even cheesier snack.
Ranch-Flavored: Add a packet of ranch seasoning to the mix for a tangy twist on the classic flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crackers to make these snacks suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the crackers.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Coat the Ritz Bits

Add the Cheese Ritz Bits crackers to the butter mixture and toss them gently to coat all of the crackers evenly with the flavorful butter mixture.

Step 4: Add Parmesan

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the coated crackers and toss again until all the crackers are evenly covered with cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Snacks

Spread the coated crackers out evenly on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Remove the crackers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for later enjoyment.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Stir the crackers occasionally while they bake to ensure they bake evenly.
For an extra crispy texture, bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, but be careful not to burn them.
Make sure to coat all the crackers evenly in the butter and seasoning mixture for the best flavor.
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings or add-ins like crushed nuts for added crunch.

How to Serve

Serve these Garlic Ritz Snacks on a platter at your next party alongside other finger foods like chips, dips, or mini sliders.
Pair them with a refreshing drink, such as sparkling water or a light cocktail.
Use these snacks as a tasty side dish to complement a hearty salad or a pasta dinner.
Enjoy them as an afternoon snack or while watching your favorite TV show.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Garlic Ritz Snacks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their crunchiness.

Freezing

While these snacks are best enjoyed fresh, you can store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until crisp.

Reheating

If the snacks lose their crunch over time, simply spread them on a baking sheet and reheat in the oven for 5 minutes at 350°F to restore their crispy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular Ritz crackers instead of Ritz Bits?

Yes, regular Ritz crackers can work, but Ritz Bits give these snacks a smaller, more bite-sized crunch.

2. Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the crackers ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for a few days.

3. How do I keep the crackers from getting soggy?

Make sure the butter mixture is evenly coated and bake them at a high enough temperature to keep them crispy.

4. Can I use a different cheese instead of Parmesan?

Yes, you can use any hard, grated cheese like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a similar flavor profile.

5. How can I make these snacks more flavorful?

Feel free to add extra garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, or a bit of lemon zest for added zest.

6. Are these snacks kid-friendly?

Yes, kids will love the cheesy flavor and crunchy texture of these Garlic Ritz Snacks.

7. Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free Ritz crackers or any other gluten-free cracker option.

8. Can I make these snacks spicy?

Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes or chili powder to the seasoning mixture for a spicy kick.

9. How do I keep the crackers from burning in the oven?

Keep a close watch on them while baking, as they can burn quickly. Stirring them halfway through the baking process will help prevent this.

10. What other seasonings can I add to this recipe?

Feel free to experiment with paprika, smoked paprika, ranch seasoning, or even a little bit of cinnamon for a sweet-savory twist.

Conclusion

These Garlic Ritz Snacks are the perfect blend of cheesy, garlicky goodness in a crunchy bite-sized form. With their rich flavor and simple preparation, they’re sure to become a favorite in your snack rotation. Whether you’re serving them at a party, packing them for a picnic, or simply enjoying them at home, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Easy to make, customizable, and endlessly delicious—what’s not to love? Get ready to snack in style with these irresistible Garlic Ritz Snacks!