If you adore fun, snacky twists on classic flavors, these Garlic Bread Ritz Bits are about to become your new obsession! Imagine everything that’s lovable about gooey, buttery garlic bread, then shrink it down to crispy, poppable cracker bites stuffed with cheese. This recipe brings together crunchy, cheesy Ritz sandwiches with a punchy garlic-butter coating and a sprinkling of Parmesan. Each batch bakes up golden and fragrant, delivering a snacking experience that’s equal parts nostalgia, comfort, and pure joy. Count on these little flavor bombs to disappear faster than you ever thought possible—no matter how many times you make them.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Garlic Bread Ritz Bits is in its simplicity—just a handful of pantry essentials and clever seasonings combine to create layers of taste and that signature more-ish crunch. Every ingredient plays a specific role, so don’t skimp on any of them!
- Ritz Bits cheese sandwiches: The star of the show! These mini, cheese-filled crackers are the perfect canvas for the savory coating.
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter lends irresistible richness and helps the spices adhere beautifully.
- Olive oil: Balances the butter and adds depth, while ensuring the crackers bake up perfectly crispy.
- Garlic powder: The unmistakable essence of garlic bread—you can’t skip this for true flavor!
- Onion powder: A subtle layer of sweet-savory aroma that rounds out the garlic.
- Dried parsley: Adds color and a whiff of herby freshness that screams “garlic bread.”
- Dried oregano: A little pinch offers that classic Italian flavor, making everything pop.
- Salt: Essential for pulling out all the best in the other seasonings.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: The salty, nutty crown that finishes these bites with extra cheesy flair.
How to Make Garlic Bread Ritz Bits
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Sheet
Begin by preheating your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This lower temperature helps the Garlic Bread Ritz Bits bake gently, allowing the coating to infuse and crisp without burning the crackers or cheese. Parchment paper makes cleanup effortless and prevents sticking, so don’t skip it!
Step 2: Mix the Garlic Butter Coating
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, dried oregano, and salt. This dazzling blend is where the classic garlic bread flavor comes to life. Make sure your butter is fully melted and everything is well-combined for even coverage in the next step.
Step 3: Toss the Ritz Bits
Gently add the Ritz Bits cheese sandwiches to your bowl of seasoned butter. Using a soft spatula or clean hands, toss and turn the crackers until every nook and cranny is coated. Take your time—coating each bit ensures every bite packs maximum flavor, and the cheese won’t get soggy thanks to that balanced fat-and-seasoning blend.
Step 4: Arrange and Sprinkle Parmesan
Spread the coated crackers in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. This ensures even baking and keeps the cheese from clumping. Next, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. As it bakes, the Parmesan will crisp and adhere to the crackers, making your Garlic Bread Ritz Bits extra special.
Step 5: Bake, Stir, and Finish
Bake the crackers for 15–20 minutes, giving them a gentle stir about halfway through to prevent any over-browning and to ensure even toasting. When they emerge golden and fragrant, let them cool on the pan—this helps everything crisp up further. Once cooled, transfer your gorgeous Garlic Bread Ritz Bits to a bowl or airtight container… if you can resist snacking right away!
How to Serve Garlic Bread Ritz Bits
Garnishes
Set your Garlic Bread Ritz Bits apart by adding a finishing touch: another light dusting of grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley right before serving. For a pop of color and heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes does wonders. Presentation matters, even with snacks!
Side Dishes
These zesty, cheesy crackers are perfect for munching on their own, but they also shine alongside bowls of tomato soup, creamy spinach dip, or even tossed in a salad for an irresistible, crunchy twist. Garlic Bread Ritz Bits are a surprising hit at parties and picnics, especially served with antipasto platters or cheese boards.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, pour them into a rustic bowl or line up little snack cups for grab-and-go party bites. They also make a fun edible topping—imagine them crumbled over pasta or even on a baked potato! Stack a few in a jar and tie with ribbon for a homemade gift; Garlic Bread Ritz Bits have that special something everyone appreciates.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow have leftovers (a big “if” with these!), cool them completely and store in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and crunchy for up to five days, making them perfect for lunchbox treats or snack stashes.
Freezing
While Garlic Bread Ritz Bits are best fresh, you can freeze them if needed: just spread cooled crackers in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray to freeze, then transfer to a zip-top bag once solid. Thaw at room temperature before serving; just know that the texture may be a tad less crisp, but absolutely still delicious.
Reheating
To bring back that oven-fresh crunch, spread the crackers on a baking sheet and pop them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 3–5 minutes. Let them cool before eating for maximum crisp. It’s a great trick for perking up slightly stale Garlic Bread Ritz Bits or adding that “just-baked” aroma to your snack bowl.
FAQs
Can I use plain Ritz crackers instead of Ritz Bits?
Absolutely! While Ritz Bits cheese sandwiches give that creamy, cheesy center, you can substitute with regular Ritz crackers and simply toss with the garlic butter mixture (maybe sprinkle extra Parmesan to up the cheese factor). Just keep an eye on baking time as plain crackers may brown a little faster.
Are these Garlic Bread Ritz Bits spicy?
Not as written—they’re gloriously savory, not hot. For a kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to your seasoning mix. You can easily dial up the spice to suit your taste or keep things mild for snacking with the whole family.
How do I prevent the crackers from getting soggy?
Be sure not to overdo the butter and olive oil, and always coat evenly. Spreading the crackers in a single layer during baking prevents steaming and encourages that addictive crunch. Cooling them completely before storage is key for keeping them crisp as well.
Can I make Garlic Bread Ritz Bits dairy-free?
With a few easy swaps, yes! Look for plant-based butter, choose dairy-free cheese crackers if available, and swap out Parmesan for a vegan alternative or just omit it. The results are still super snackable.
What’s the best way to pack these for a picnic or party?
Let the Garlic Bread Ritz Bits cool completely, then portion them into small snack containers or treat bags for individual servings. They travel well at room temperature, making them a top pick for road trips, office potlucks, or casual gatherings.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly joyful about sharing a bowl of Garlic Bread Ritz Bits with friends or family—crunchy, aromatic, and bursting with cheesy garlic flavor in every bite. Whether you’re impressing a crowd or snacking solo, these little bites hit all the right notes. Trust me: make a big batch and watch them disappear. You’re going to love every golden, delicious piece!
Print
Garlic Bread Ritz Bits Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Garlic Bread Ritz Bits are a flavorful and crunchy snack that’s perfect for parties or as a side for soup. Coated with a delicious garlic butter mixture and baked to golden perfection, these cheesy crackers are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
Ritz Bits Cheese Sandwiches:
1 (8.8-ounce) box
Unsalted Butter (melted):
1/4 cup
Olive Oil:
1 tablespoon
Garlic Powder:
1 teaspoon
Onion Powder:
1/2 teaspoon
Dried Parsley:
1/2 teaspoon
Dried Oregano:
1/4 teaspoon
Salt:
1/4 teaspoon
Grated Parmesan Cheese:
2 tablespoons
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix butter and seasonings: In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, oregano, and salt.
- Coat Ritz Bits: Add the Ritz Bits to the bowl and gently toss to coat all pieces evenly.
- Bake: Spread the crackers on the baking sheet, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and bake for 15–20 minutes until golden, stirring halfway through.
- Cool and serve: Let the crackers cool before serving or storing in an airtight container.
Notes
- Great as a party snack or crunchy side for soup.
- For a spicy twist, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
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