Looking for a quick and satisfying snack that’s bursting with garlic and cheesy goodness? These Garlic Bread Ritz Bits are the perfect bite-sized treat. Crunchy, garlicky, and cheesy, they make a fantastic appetizer or snack for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something savory, these will hit the spot!
Ingredients:
- 2 sleeves of Ritz crackers
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter:
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and dried parsley until well combined.
- Coat the Ritz Bits:
- Lay the Ritz crackers on the baking sheet in a single layer. Using a brush, generously coat each cracker with the garlic butter mixture.
- Add the Cheese:
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the buttered crackers. The cheese will create a golden, crispy topping.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the crackers are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and lightly crispy.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color, if desired. Serve immediately while warm and crispy.
Additional Tips for Garlic Bread Ritz Bits:
- Serving:
- These Ritz Bits are best served fresh out of the oven while they’re warm and crisp. They pair wonderfully with a dip like marinara sauce or a creamy ranch for added flavor.
- Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To re-crisp, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
- Variations:
- For a little heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking. You can also use a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for extra cheesiness.
FAQs About Garlic Bread Ritz Bits:
- Can I use a different type of cracker?
- Yes, you can use any buttery cracker you like. Ritz crackers work best because of their texture, but saltine crackers or similar will also be delicious.
- Can I make this ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter and assemble the crackers ahead of time. Store them in the fridge and bake when ready to serve.
- What cheese works best for this recipe?
- Parmesan is ideal because it crisps up well, but feel free to experiment with other hard cheeses like Romano or a mix of Parmesan and mozzarella for a different flavor.
- Can I make them gluten-free?
- Absolutely! You can substitute the Ritz crackers for a gluten-free variety of your choice.
These Garlic Bread Ritz Bits are a simple yet flavorful snack that will leave everyone reaching for more. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, they’re perfect for a last-minute party snack or an indulgent treat to satisfy those savory cravings.
