If you’re looking for a crave-worthy treat that’s ready in minutes and always a crowd-pleaser, let me introduce you to Garlic Ritz Snacks. Imagine buttery, crisp Ritz crackers perfectly kissed with savory garlic, herby parsley, and just a hint of salty Parmesan—these little bites are the ultimate comfort food, masquerading as a snack. Whether you’re hosting friends, need a quick appetizer, or want something special to jazz up your soup night, Garlic Ritz Snacks bring big flavor with very little fuss. Once you try them, you’ll see why they’re a staple in my kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Garlic Ritz Snacks is in their simplicity—six pantry-friendly ingredients come together to create a snack that tastes far more impressive than the sum of its parts. Each one is essential for that perfect blend of flavor, crunch, and irresistible aroma.
- Ritz crackers: Their signature buttery, flaky crunch is the perfect base for this snack.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Melting the butter lets it soak into every nook and cranny, adding rich flavor and helping the seasonings stick.
- Garlic powder: For that deep, savory garlic essence without the risk of burning fresh garlic.
- Dried parsley: Adds a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness that brightens each bite.
- Salt: Just a touch enhances the other flavors and balances the richness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): A sprinkle of Parmesan brings a nutty, salty finish—totally optional but highly recommended!
How to Make Garlic Ritz Snacks
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper—this will prevent sticking and make clean-up a breeze, so you can spend more time snacking and less time scrubbing.
Step 2: Mix the Garlic Butter Topping
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, garlic powder, dried parsley, and salt until everything is well combined. If you’re going for the extra flavor punch (and who wouldn’t?), stir in the grated Parmesan cheese at this stage. The mixture should be fragrant and slightly thickened.
Step 3: Arrange and Coat the Crackers
Spread the Ritz crackers out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Don’t pile them up—each cracker deserves its own spotlight! Using a pastry brush, generously coat each cracker with the savory garlic butter mixture, ensuring every one gets a good dose of flavor.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop the tray in your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep a close eye on them in the last couple of minutes—the goal is to toast the crackers lightly and let the butter mixture set, not burn. When they’re golden and smell amazing, they’re done.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let the Garlic Ritz Snacks cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This helps them crisp up even more and makes them easier to handle. Serve them warm or at room temperature—either way, they’ll disappear fast!
How to Serve Garlic Ritz Snacks
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a little extra Parmesan right after baking can take your Garlic Ritz Snacks from homemade to party-worthy. If you like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne adds a fun kick that’s totally customizable.
Side Dishes
These snacks are fantastic on their own, but they also make a wonderful crunchy companion to creamy tomato soup, a hearty salad, or even a cheesy pasta bake. You’ll find they add a flavorful, textural contrast to just about any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, stack the Garlic Ritz Snacks in a tall glass or a small bowl for easy grabbing, or arrange them around a dip like whipped feta or a roasted red pepper spread. For family nights, try serving them on a snack board with olives, cheese, and fresh veggies.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any Garlic Ritz Snacks left (which is rare!), let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay crisp and tasty for up to 3 days—perfect for snacking on the go or adding to lunchboxes.
Freezing
While Garlic Ritz Snacks are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them if you’d like to make a big batch ahead. Arrange cooled snacks in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment. Freeze for up to one month, then re-crisp in the oven before serving.
Reheating
To restore that just-baked crunch, spread the snacks on a baking sheet and warm them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. This works whether they’ve been stored at room temperature or thawed from the freezer.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Snack, Appetizer
Absolutely! While Ritz crackers give these their signature buttery flavor and texture, you can try this recipe with other buttery, flaky crackers. Just keep in mind, the results may vary slightly in taste and crunch.
Is there a way to make Garlic Ritz Snacks vegan?
Yes! Simply substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan Parmesan alternative. You’ll still get that wonderful garlicky, herby flavor in every bite.
How do I make these snacks spicier?
For a spicy twist, add a pinch (or more, if you’re brave) of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot seasoning to the garlic butter mixture before brushing onto the crackers. You can also sprinkle chili flakes on top before baking.
Can I double the recipe for a party?
Definitely! Just use two baking sheets and rotate them halfway through baking for even toasting. Garlic Ritz Snacks are a hit at gatherings, so making extra is always a smart move.
Are Garlic Ritz Snacks gluten-free?
Traditional Ritz crackers contain gluten, but you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using your favorite gluten-free round crackers. The toppings and method stay exactly the same.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something quick, savory, and downright addictive, Garlic Ritz Snacks are about to become your new go-to. They’re wonderfully simple, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to disappear in a flash. Give them a try, and let their buttery, garlicky goodness win over your family and friends!
Print
Garlic Ritz Snacks Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Snack, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Garlic Ritz Snacks are a quick and tasty appetizer featuring buttery Ritz crackers infused with garlic, parsley, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for parties or as a savory accompaniment to soups, these baked snacks offer a delightful golden crisp with every bite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, garlic powder, dried parsley, and salt until well combined. If using, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
- Arrange Crackers: Spread the Ritz crackers out in a single layer evenly on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they don’t overlap for uniform crispiness.
- Brush Crackers: Generously brush each cracker with the garlic butter mixture, coating both sides for maximum flavor infusion.
- Bake: Bake the crackers in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until they turn lightly golden and release a fragrant garlic aroma.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the crackers to cool slightly so they crisp up before serving as a savory snack or appetizer.
Notes
- These make a quick and savory party snack or a great accompaniment to soups.
- For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the butter mixture.
- Be careful not to overbake as the crackers can burn quickly once golden.
- You can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 crackers
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
