If you’re searching for a wildly addictive, supremely snackable treat, look no further than Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits. Each bite delivers the perfect trifecta: a crispy cracker shell hugging gooey cheese, all tossed in garlicky, buttery magic and showered with Parmesan. They’re the sort of snack you pull out at a party and suddenly everyone’s sidling over for “just one more,” and trust me, they disappear fast! Whether you’re hosting friends, prepping a lunchbox surprise, or just craving comfort food with a flavorful punch, these bites check every box.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about making Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits is how few ingredients you need—each one absolutely matters. From the buttery base to the savory seasonings and the essential cheese, these humble staples create snack bliss.
- Ritz Bits cheese sandwiches (1 box, 8.8 oz): The heart and soul—these mini sandwiches offer that irresistible cheesy crunch you crave.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): The golden glue that carries all the flavors to every nook of each cracker.
- Garlic powder (1 tablespoon): Packs in deep, bold garlic flavor without raw harshness—crucial for that signature taste.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Adds subtle sweetness and another savory layer, making these bites extra complex.
- Dried parsley (1 teaspoon): For flecks of herbaceous color and a pop of fresh flavor in every handful.
- Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses warmth and a hint of smokiness, plus a beautiful hint of brick-red hue.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Takes the cheesiness over the top and gives a melt-in-your-mouth finish!
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F. While it heats, grab a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This simple step makes cleanup a breeze, and it ensures your Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits don’t stick or burn.
Step 2: Get the Ritz Bits Ready
Empty your box of Ritz Bits cheese sandwiches into a large mixing bowl. Using a bigger bowl gives you plenty of room to coat every cracker evenly—no squashed bits, just perfect snack potential.
Step 3: Mix Up the Garlicky Butter
In a separate, smaller bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter with garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, and paprika. Stir until the spices fully dissolve and your kitchen already starts to smell amazing!
Step 4: Coat the Crackers
Pour the seasoned buttery mixture over the Ritz Bits. Using a large spoon (or even your hands, if you’re feeling adventurous), gently toss the crackers to ensure that every piece gets coated in all that rich, fragrant goodness.
Step 5: Spread and Sprinkle
Arrange the coated crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Now for the crowning touch: sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Don’t skimp—this is where that signature Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits flavor bursts to life!
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide the tray into the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Halfway through, give the crackers a gentle stir to ensure even baking. Once they’re golden, toasted, and smell utterly irresistible, pull them out and let them cool completely before indulging.
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits
Garnishes
To take your Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits up a notch, try showering them with fresh chopped parsley or a touch more Parmesan as soon as they come out of the oven. A little flaky sea salt or a dash of cracked pepper can finish things beautifully, too—just enough to make every bite pop.
Side Dishes
Serve these cheesy snacks alongside a crisp veggie platter, a big bowl of tomato soup, or even a green salad for an unexpected twist. Their bold flavors make them a terrific savory side to milder foods, balancing the bite with creamy dips or simple crudités.
Creative Ways to Present
You can heap your Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits on a rustic platter for game day, spoon them into paper cones for parties, or use small jars for a fun make-ahead snack-on-the-go. For a fancy touch, bundle a few in cellophane and tie with ribbon for an edible gift everyone will love!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and crispy for up to a week, though it’s rare they last that long with snackers around!
Freezing
While these bites are at their best fresh, you can freeze them if needed. Place completely cooled crackers in a freezer-safe zip bag, pressing out as much air as possible, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
If your crackers have lost a little of their crunch, simply toss them on a baking sheet and pop them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. This quick refresh restores that signature Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits texture in no time.
FAQs
Can I make Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare them up to a day in advance—just store in an airtight container. They stay perfectly crispy and the flavors deepen a bit, making them even more irresistible.
Can I use a different type Snack
Sure! While Parmesan brings gorgeous flavor and melts nicely, you can try finely shredded cheddar, Asiago, or a cheese blend for a creative twist. Just use a dry, hard cheese to avoid sogginess.
How can I make these spicier?
For a little heat, sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or your favorite chili powder with the butter mixture. You’ll get a subtle (or bold, if you add more!) spicy kick in every bite.
Are Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits kid-friendly?
Absolutely—they’re a hit with both kids and adults! You can tone down the garlic or spice amounts if your little ones have sensitive palates, but overall, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
What if I can’t find Ritz Bits?
No worries—mini sandwich crackers from other brands usually work very well. You can even try making your own with small crackers and a bit of cheese in between if you’re feeling adventurous!
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend these Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits enough—they’re quick, crazy-easy, and totally unforgettable. Your friends and family will beg for the recipe after just one bite. Trust me, you’ll want to make a double batch!
Print
Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits are a delicious and addictive snack that’s perfect for parties or munching on anytime. With a savory garlic and cheese flavor, these seasoned crackers are sure to be a hit with everyone!
Ingredients
Ritz Bits Cheese Sandwiches:
- 1 box (8.8 oz)
Butter Mixture:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 300°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Coat Ritz Bits: Place Ritz Bits in a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, mix melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, and paprika until combined. Pour butter mixture over Ritz Bits and toss gently to coat.
- Bake: Spread coated crackers onto the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and fragrant.
- Cool and Serve: Let cool completely before serving.
Notes
- For a spicy kick, add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the butter mixture.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
