Garlic Bread Ritz Bits Snack

This cheesy garlic-infused snack has transformed ordinary Ritz Bits into an irresistible treat that disappears within minutes at every gathering I host. The buttery crackers combined with savory garlic and herbs create bite-sized morsels of garlic bread flavor without the effort of making actual garlic bread.

I stumbled upon this recipe when preparing last-minute snacks for an impromptu movie night. What began as a creative use of ingredients I had on hand has become the most requested appetizer among my friends and family.

Ingredients

• Ritz Bits crackers cheese-filled: provides the perfect buttery base and cheesy center
• Unsalted butter melted: creates the rich coating that carries all the flavors
• Garlic powder: delivers that classic garlic bread flavor without the bite of fresh garlic
• Dried parsley: adds color and a fresh herbal note
• Dried oregano: brings an Italian flavor profile that complements the cheese
• Salt: enhances all the flavors without making the snack too salty
• Black pepper: adds a subtle warmth and depth
• Grated Parmesan cheese: brings an extra dimension of savory cheesiness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. The parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless. Allow about 10 minutes for the oven to reach temperature while you prepare the crackers.

Prepare Garlic Butter:

Melt the butter completely in a microwave or small saucepan until liquid but not hot. Combine with garlic powder, dried parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper, stirring until fully incorporated. This aromatic mixture is the flavor foundation for your snack.

Coat the Crackers:

Place your Ritz Bits in a bowl large enough for gentle mixing. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the crackers in a slow, circular motion to distribute it evenly. Use a spatula or your hands to toss the crackers carefully, ensuring each piece gets coated with the flavorful butter.

Bake:

Arrange the coated crackers in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Avoid overlapping to ensure even baking and maximum crispiness. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, watching closely during the final minutes to prevent burning. If using Parmesan, sprinkle it over the crackers during the last 2 minutes to allow it to melt slightly without burning.

Cool and Serve:

Allow the crackers to cool for 3 to 5 minutes on the baking sheet. This cooling period helps them reach their maximum crispness. Transfer to a serving bowl and watch them disappear almost immediately.

Save This

The first time I served these at a family gathering, my nephew declared them better than actual garlic bread. Now I keep the ingredients on hand at all times for last-minute entertaining or when the craving strikes. The combination of cheese-filled crackers with the garlic butter coating creates a flavor experience that's greater than the sum of its parts.

Storage Solutions

These garlic-butter coated Ritz Bits maintain their best texture and flavor when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. I find using a glass container with a tight seal works better than plastic bags, which can make them slightly soggy. If you notice them losing their crispness after a day, you can refresh them with a quick 5-minute bake at 300°F.

Easy Variations

The basic recipe serves as an excellent template for creating different flavor profiles. For a spicy version, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the butter mixture. For an Italian twist, increase the Parmesan to 1/2 cup and add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. My personal favorite variation includes 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning mix added to the butter for a garlic ranch flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cheese filling.

Perfect Pairings

These flavorful bites complement a variety of dips and beverages. They're substantial enough to enjoy alongside a spinach or artichoke dip but also pair beautifully with a crisp white wine or cold beer. For a complete appetizer spread, I serve them alongside olives, cured meats, and fresh vegetables with hummus. The garlic flavor makes them particularly good with tomato-based dips like marinara or bruschetta topping.

Common Queries

→ Can I use different herbs for seasoning?

Absolutely—try basil, thyme, or Italian seasoning to tailor the flavor to your preferences.

→ Will any cheese-filled crackers work?

While Ritz Bits are preferred, similar mini cheese sandwich crackers can be substituted with good results.

→ Is the Parmesan topping necessary?

The Parmesan is optional, but it adds extra savory depth and a pleasantly crisp finish.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, store cooled crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

→ How can I prevent the crackers from getting soggy?

Ensure the crackers are fully coated yet not oversaturated, and bake until golden for maximum crunch.

→ What’s a good way to serve these?

Enjoy them as a party snack, appetizer, or alongside a dipping sauce for extra flavor.