Here’s a buttery, crowd-pleasing appetizer you can make in under 25 minutes:
🧀 Baked Ham & Cheese Ritz Cracker Bites
🧂 Ingredients (Makes ~24 bites)
- 48 buttery round crackers (like Ritz style)
- 12 slices deli ham (cut into quarters)
- 12 small slices cheddar or Swiss cheese (cut into quarters)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional but delicious)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp poppy seeds (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2️⃣ Assemble
- Lay out 24 crackers (flat side up).
- Add a folded piece of ham on each.
- Top with a piece of cheese.
- Cover with another cracker to make mini sandwiches.
3️⃣ Make the Butter Glaze
In a small bowl, mix:
- Melted butter
- Dijon mustard
- Garlic powder
- Parsley
- Poppy seeds
4️⃣ Brush & Bake
- Lightly brush tops of crackers with butter mixture.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, until cheese melts and tops are golden.
⚠️ Don’t overbake — crackers brown quickly.
🔥 Flavor Variations
- 🌶 Add a thin jalapeño slice inside.
- 🍯 Mix 1 tsp honey into butter for sweet-savory flavor.
- 🧄 Add a pinch of onion powder for extra depth.
- 🥓 Swap ham for crispy bacon bits.
🥂 Serving Tips
- Serve warm for best texture.
- Great for game day, brunch, or holiday platters.
- Pair with honey mustard or ranch dip.
If you’d like, I can also give you:
- 🧄 Garlic Parmesan version
- 🍕 Pizza-style cracker bites
- 🥪 Make-ahead freezer instructions
- 🎉 Party platter ideas
Just tell me 😊