Description
These Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits Snacks are an irresistible party appetizer or movie night treat, featuring crispy Ritz Bits crackers coated in a savory mixture of melted butter, garlic, onion, herbs, and a perfect blend of Parmesan and sharp cheddar cheeses. Baked at a low temperature, they develop a golden, crispy texture with a rich cheesy flavor and subtle hints of smoked paprika and cayenne for a mild kick.
Ingredients
Scale
Snacks
- 1 box (12.5 oz) Ritz Bits Crackers, Original
Seasoned Butter Mixture
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) Unsalted Butter, melted
- 2 tbsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tbsp Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Dried Parsley Flakes
- 1/2 tsp Fine Sea Salt
- 1/4 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- 1/4 tsp Smoked Paprika (optional)
- Pinch Cayenne Pepper (optional)
Cheeses
- 1/2 cup Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 1/2 cup Finely Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Melt Butter and Infuse Spices: Melt the unsalted butter in a bowl, then stir in garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley flakes, sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and, if using, smoked paprika and cayenne pepper until thoroughly combined to create a flavorful seasoned butter.
- Add Cheeses: To the seasoned butter mixture, add finely grated Parmesan cheese and finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir well to blend the cheeses evenly with the butter and spices.
- Coat Ritz Bits: Place the Ritz Bits crackers in a very large bowl. Pour the cheesy butter mixture over the crackers and gently toss them until all crackers are thoroughly coated with the mixture, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Spread the coated Ritz Bits in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring gently halfway through cooking to promote even browning. The crackers should be lightly golden, and the cheese melted. If still soft after 20 minutes, bake an additional 3 to 5 minutes while watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the snacks from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet to achieve maximum crispiness. Break apart any clusters that have formed and transfer the snacks to a serving bowl. Serve immediately as a tasty party appetizer, movie snack, or a crunchy topping for soups and salads.
- Storage: Store any leftover Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and crispy for 3 to 5 days.
Notes
- For an extra smoky flavor, add the optional smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper to the butter mixture.
- Make sure to toss the crackers gently to avoid breaking them while coating.
- Cooling on the baking sheet is critical to keep the snacks crispy.
- Use fresh grated cheeses for the best melting and flavor.
- If your oven runs hot, consider reducing the baking time to prevent over-browning.
- Leftovers can be refreshed by warming briefly in a low oven for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
