Garlic Bread Ritz Bites

This garlic bread Ritz Bits recipe transforms ordinary cheese crackers into an addictive snack that captures all the flavors of classic garlic bread without the bread. Perfect for movie nights, parties, or anytime you need a quick savory treat that impresses with minimal effort.

I first made these for a last minute game night when I realized I had nothing to serve my unexpected guests. They were such a hit that my friends now specifically request them whenever we get together. The empty bowl at the end of the night is always my greatest satisfaction.

Ingredients

• Cheese Ritz Bits crackers: Provide the perfect base with their buttery flavor and ideal size for popping
• Butter: Creates the rich coating that helps all the seasonings stick
• Garlic powder: Delivers that classic garlic bread flavor without the harshness of fresh garlic
• Onion powder: Adds subtle depth that complements the garlic perfectly
• Italian seasoning: Brings in herbal notes that elevate the snack to garlic bread territory
• Grated parmesan cheese: Provides that unmistakable savory cheesy finish that makes them irresistible

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Workspace:

Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. The parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup incredibly easy. Pour your Ritz Bits into a large mixing bowl ensuring you have plenty of room to toss and coat them evenly.

Create The Garlic Butter Mixture:

Melt the butter completely in a microwave safe bowl about 30 seconds at a time until liquid. Whisk in the garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning until fully incorporated. The warm butter helps bloom the dried herbs and spices, releasing their essential oils and maximizing flavor.

Coat The Crackers:

Pour the seasoned butter mixture evenly over the crackers in the bowl. Use a gentle folding motion with a spatula or large spoon to ensure each cracker gets coated without breaking them. Take your time with this step as even coating is key to consistent flavor.

Add The Cheese Layer:

Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the butter coated crackers and toss again to distribute evenly. The cheese will initially stick to the butter but will fully adhere during baking. Make sure to break up any clumps of cheese before adding.

Bake To Perfection:

Spread the seasoned crackers in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding which can lead to uneven browning. Bake for 7 to 9 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden color. Watch carefully during the last couple minutes as they can go from perfect to overdone quickly.

Cool Before Storing:

Allow the crackers to cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling period is crucial as it allows them to crisp up properly. Once cooled, transfer to an airtight container for storage.

The parmesan cheese is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I once tried making these without it thinking the butter and seasonings would be enough, but they lacked that special something. When I sprinkled on fresh grated parmesan from my local Italian deli rather than the pre grated stuff, my husband declared them the best batch ever. Quality ingredients really do make a difference even in simple recipes.

Storage Tips

These garlic bread Ritz Bits maintain their crunch and flavor for up to two weeks when stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent condensation which can make them soggy. If you notice they've lost some crispness after several days, you can refresh them with a quick 5 minute reheat in a 300°F oven.

Easy Variations

While this classic garlic bread version is my go to, you can easily customize the flavor profile. For a spicy version, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the butter mixture. For a ranch version, substitute the Italian seasoning with dried dill and a packet of ranch seasoning mix. For a pizza version, add a teaspoon of dried oregano and substitute the parmesan with a mix of parmesan and mozzarella.

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Serving Suggestions

These savory treats shine as part of a snack board alongside olives, sliced salami, and cubes of cheese. They also make an excellent topper for creamy tomato soup, replacing traditional croutons with a flavor punch. I often serve them in small individual cups at parties so guests can mingle without constantly returning to the snack table. For a fun twist, try using them as a crunchy topping on baked mac and cheese.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of cracker?

Yes! Feel free to substitute Ritz Bits with other bite-sized crackers, but ensure they hold up well when coated in butter and seasoning.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the butter mixture for a spicy kick.

→ How should I store the finished crackers?

Once cooled, store the crackers in an airtight bag or container to maintain their crisp texture.

→ Can I prepare this snack in advance?

Absolutely! These garlic Ritz bites store well for up to a week, making them a great make-ahead snack.

→ What’s the best way to serve them?

Serve them as a standalone snack, pair them with a dip like marinara or ranch, or add them to cheese boards for variety.