Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits Snacks: Quick & Irresistible Treat!
Prepare for an explosion of flavor with these incredibly addictive Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits Snacks. These bite-sized crackers are coated in a rich, buttery blend of garlic, onion, and two types of cheese, then baked to golden, crispy perfection. They are the ultimate easy-to-make snack that promises to disappear fast at any gathering or movie night.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
15-20 minutes
Total Time
Approximately 30 minutes (plus cooling time)
Servings
Makes about 8-10 servings
Keywords
Why This Recipe Delivers
- An irresistible explosion of savory garlic and cheese flavor in every delightful bite.
- Incredibly quick and simple to prepare, making it ideal for last-minute cravings or unexpected guests.
- Requires only basic pantry staples and minimal effort for maximum flavor payoff.
- A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that appeals to all ages, disappearing fast at any gathering.
- Achieves ultimate crispiness and a perfect, evenly distributed cheesy coating.
Ingredients
- 1 box (354 g / 12.5 oz) Ritz Bits Crackers, Original
- 113 g (1/2 cup / 1 stick) Unsalted Butter, melted
- 30 ml (2 tbsp) Garlic Powder
- 15 ml (1 tbsp) Onion Powder
- 5 ml (1 tsp) Dried Parsley Flakes
- 2.5 ml (1/2 tsp) Fine Sea Salt
- 1.25 ml (1/4 tsp) Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- 50 g (1/2 cup) Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 50 g (1/2 cup) Finely Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
- 1.25 ml (1/4 tsp) Smoked Paprika (optional)
- Pinch Cayenne Pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. This vital step prevents the cheesy crackers from sticking and ensures effortless cleanup later.
- In a medium, microwave-safe bowl or a small saucepan over low heat, melt the 113 g (1/2 cup) of unsalted butter until it is completely liquid. Once melted, immediately stir in the 30 ml (2 tbsp) garlic powder, 15 ml (1 tbsp) onion powder, 5 ml (1 tsp) dried parsley flakes, 2.5 ml (1/2 tsp) fine sea salt, 1.25 ml (1/4 tsp) freshly ground black pepper, and if desired, the optional 1.25 ml (1/4 tsp) smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Whisk diligently until all the spices are thoroughly combined with the melted butter, creating an intensely aromatic and flavorful base.
- Add the 50 g (1/2 cup) finely grated Parmesan cheese and 50 g (1/2 cup) finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese directly into the seasoned butter mixture. Stir vigorously with a spatula or spoon until the cheeses are fully incorporated into the butter and spices, forming a thick, golden, and incredibly savory paste.
- Transfer the entire 354 g (12.5 oz) box of Ritz Bits Crackers into a very large mixing bowl. Pour the seasoned cheesy butter mixture over the crackers. Using a large spatula or your clean hands, gently toss and fold the crackers until every single Ritz Bit is thoroughly and evenly coated with the rich, cheesy seasoning. Exercise care to avoid crushing the delicate crackers during this process.
- Spread the coated Ritz Bits in a single, even layer across the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there is minimal overlap. Bake for 15-20 minutes at 150°C (300°F). Approximately halfway through the baking time (around 8-10 minutes), gently stir the crackers on the sheet. This promotes even toasting and ensures the cheese melts beautifully without burning. The crackers should achieve a light golden hue, and the cheese should be visibly melted and slightly crispy. If after 20 minutes they still feel soft, continue baking for an additional 3-5 minutes, watching them very closely as they can brown quickly.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits to cool completely on the sheet. This step is absolutely critical, as it allows the melted cheese to set and ensures the crackers develop their ultimate crispiness and crunchy texture. Once cooled, gently break apart any small clusters that may have formed and transfer them into a stylish serving bowl. These irresistible snacks are perfect as a party appetizer, a comforting movie night treat, or even a crunchy, savory garnish for creamy soups and vibrant salads.
- To maintain their optimal freshness and crunch, store any leftover Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-5 days.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Very large mixing bowl
- Medium microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan
- Spatula or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Essential Success Tips
- Ensure the butter and cheese mixture thoroughly coats every cracker. This guarantees an even distribution of flavor and a consistent texture.
- Spread the crackers in a true single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping.
- Stirring halfway through baking is crucial. It prevents uneven browning and ensures all crackers achieve that perfect golden crunch.
- Allow the crackers to cool completely on the baking sheet. This step is essential for the cheese to solidify and the crackers to reach their peak crispiness.
- Keep a close eye on the oven, especially during the final minutes of baking. These crackers can go from perfectly golden to burnt very quickly due to their small size.
Professional Cooking Secrets
- For an even deeper umami flavor and a slightly nutty undertone, consider adding 5 ml (1 tsp) of nutritional yeast to the butter mixture alongside the other spices.
- Infuse your melted butter with aromatics. Before adding spices, gently heat the butter with a crushed whole garlic clove or a sprig of fresh rosemary for 5 minutes, then strain out the solids for a more complex and nuanced aroma.
- Experiment with a blend of cheeses! While Parmesan and Sharp Cheddar are classic, finely grated Asiago or a small amount of smoked Gouda can introduce exciting new flavor dimensions. Just ensure they are finely grated for optimal coating.
Notes
- To customize the flavor profile, consider adding a dash of dried dill, oregano, or even a pinch of smoked paprika for an extra layer of savory goodness.
- These Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits make fantastic homemade gifts. Package them in decorative airtight bags or jars for a thoughtful and delicious present.
- For those who enjoy a spicier kick, feel free to increase the amount of cayenne pepper to your personal preference, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of crackers for this recipe?
While Ritz Bits are highly recommended for their buttery, flaky texture and ability to absorb the cheesy coating beautifully, you can certainly experiment with other mini crackers or even broken larger crackers. Be aware that baking times and the adherence of the coating may vary.
How do I store leftovers to ensure they remain crispy?
The key to maintaining crispiness is proper storage. Once completely cooled, transfer any leftover Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits to an airtight container. Store them at room temperature; refrigeration can introduce moisture and cause them to soften.
Can I make these snacks ahead of time for a party or event?
Absolutely! These Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits are a fantastic make-ahead option. They hold up wonderfully for several days when stored correctly in an airtight container, making them a perfect stress-free appetizer for any gathering.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Approximate nutritional information per serving (1/8 of the recipe): Calories: 160-180, Total Fat: 12-14g, Saturated Fat: 7-8g, Cholesterol: 30-35mg, Sodium: 250-300mg, Total Carbohydrates: 12-14g, Sugars: 1g, Protein: 3-4g.
Allergy Information
This recipe contains dairy (butter, Parmesan, cheddar cheese) and gluten (Ritz Bits crackers). It may also contain soy; always check the specific packaging of your cracker brand for detailed allergen information. For a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free crackers.
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