Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
- Customizable with your favorite herbs and spices.
- Perfect for any occasion, from casual snacking to party appetizers.
- A great way to elevate classic crackers into something special.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley (or fresh, chopped)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt, to taste
Directions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). - Prepare the Garlic Butter:
In a medium bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, garlic powder, dried parsley, and a pinch of salt. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese if desired for an extra burst of flavor. - Assemble the Ritz Bits:
Spread a generous amount of the garlic butter mixture on one side of each Ritz cracker. Optionally, create “sandwiches” by placing another cracker on top of the buttered side. - Bake the Crackers:
Arrange the prepared crackers in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crackers are golden and the butter is melted. - Serve:
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Garlic Bread Ritz Bits warm or at room temperature.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 4-6 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 20-22 minutes
Variations
- Cheesy Delight: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar between two buttered crackers before baking for a gooey center.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne powder into the garlic butter mixture.
- Herb Lover’s Mix: Use a combination of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil for a unique flavor profile.
- Vegan Option: Substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and omit the Parmesan cheese.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To revive their crispiness, warm the crackers in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, but reduce or omit the additional salt in the recipe to avoid over-salting.
2. Can I make these crackers in advance?
Absolutely! Prepare and bake them ahead, then store in an airtight container. Reheat before serving for optimal taste.
3. Can I freeze Garlic Bread Ritz Bits?
These are best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze them for up to a month. Reheat in the oven directly from frozen.
4. What other types of crackers can I use?
Any buttery or plain cracker, such as Townhouse or Club crackers, will work well in this recipe.
5. Can I skip the Parmesan cheese?
Yes, the recipe will still be flavorful without the Parmesan.
6. How can I make these gluten-free?
Use gluten-free crackers as a substitute for Ritz crackers.
7. Can I use garlic paste instead of minced garlic?
Yes, garlic paste is a convenient substitute. Use about 1 teaspoon.
8. Can I air fry these instead of baking?
Yes, air fry at 325°F for 6-8 minutes, checking for doneness halfway through.
9. What dipping sauces pair well with these?
They go great with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a garlic aioli.
10. How can I make these more buttery?
Brush an additional layer of melted butter on the crackers right after baking.
Conclusion
Garlic Bread Ritz Bits are a delightful snack that combines the savory flavors of garlic and butter with the satisfying crunch of Ritz crackers. Quick to make and endlessly versatile, these bites are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them. Whether you serve them as a snack, appetizer, or party treat, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast. Enjoy!
