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Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits Snacks Recipe

4.5 from 128 reviews

Quick and irresistible bite-sized snacks featuring crispy Ritz Bits crackers coated in a savory blend of melted butter, garlic, onion, and a generous mix of Parmesan and sharp cheddar cheeses, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or as a flavorful snack to complement soups and salads.

Ingredients

Scale

Crackers

  • 1 Box (12.5 oz) Ritz Bits Crackers, Original Flavor

Butter and Seasonings

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) Unsalted Butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons Garlic Powder
  • 1 tablespoon Onion Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Parsley Flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Optional, but highly recommended)
  • Pinch of Cayenne Pepper (Optional)

Cheeses

  • 1/2 cup Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese
  • 1/2 cup Finely Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  2. Melt Butter: Melt 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl or a small saucepan over low heat until fully liquid but not browned.
  3. Mix Spices into Butter: Stir garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley flakes, fine sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and the optional smoked paprika and cayenne pepper into the melted butter until well combined and aromatic.
  4. Add Cheeses: Add the finely grated Parmesan and finely shredded sharp cheddar cheeses to the seasoned butter mixture and stir well to combine, creating a thick, cheesy coating.
  5. Coat Ritz Bits Crackers: Pour the cheesy butter mixture over the Ritz Bits crackers in a very large bowl. Gently fold and toss the crackers with a rubber spatula until all are evenly coated with the cheesy, savory mixture.
  6. Spread and Bake: Spread the coated Ritz Bits in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes, stirring gently halfway through to ensure even toasting. Look for a light golden color and melted cheese. If needed, bake an additional 3-5 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
  7. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the crackers cool completely on the baking sheet. This allows the cheese to firm up, and crackers to crisp nicely. Break apart any clusters and transfer to a serving bowl.
  8. Store Leftovers: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-5 days to maintain crispness.

Notes

  • Ensure crackers are spread in a single layer to prevent steaming and maintain crispness.
  • Use parchment paper for best non-stick results; foil is an alternative.
  • Adjust salt and pepper to personal preference, especially since Ritz Bits crackers have some salt already.
  • Optional smoked paprika adds smoky depth; cayenne pepper adds gentle heat.
  • Cool snacks completely before storing to preserve texture.
  • Variations include adding red pepper flakes, different cheese blends, fresh herbs, or crispy bacon bits.

Keywords: Cheesy, Garlic, Ritz Bits, Snack, Appetizer, Party Food, Baked Crackers, Parmesan, Cheddar, Easy Snack