Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches Recipe
Introduction
Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches are bite-sized, savory snacks perfect for any gathering. With layers of ham, cheese, and a flavorful butter glaze, these little sandwiches are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 48 Ritz crackers (about 2 sleeves)
- 12 slices deli ham, cut into quarters
- 6 slices cheddar or Swiss cheese, cut into quarters
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for a sweet glaze)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: Place half the Ritz crackers, salted side down, on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 3: Add a small square of ham and a piece of cheese onto each cracker.
- Step 4: Top each with another Ritz cracker, salted side up, to create mini sandwiches.
- Step 5: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, garlic powder, and honey or brown sugar if using.
- Step 6: Brush the butter mixture generously over the tops of the sandwiches.
- Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 7–9 minutes, until the cheese melts and the tops turn golden brown.
- Step 8: Let the sandwiches cool for 2–3 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
Tips & Variations
- Use different deli meats like turkey or roast beef for variety.
- Try mixing cheeses for a sharper or creamier taste.
- Omit the honey or brown sugar for a less sweet, more savory bite.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the butter glaze for a mild kick.
Storage
Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a warm oven for a few minutes to restore the melted cheese and crisp texture. These sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh and warm.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare these sandwiches ahead of time?
You can assemble the sandwiches and keep them covered in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. However, it’s best to brush the butter glaze and bake just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Can I freeze Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches?
These sandwiches don’t freeze well due to the crackers losing their crispness. It’s recommended to make them fresh or store them refrigerated and reheat before serving.
PrintRitz Cracker Party Sandwiches Recipe
Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches are bite-sized, savory treats made with ham, cheese, and a flavorful buttery glaze. These easy-to-make snacks combine crispy Ritz crackers with melted cheese and deli ham, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying as a quick appetizer at parties and game days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 48 mini sandwiches 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 48 Ritz crackers (about 2 sleeves)
- 12 slices deli ham, cut into quarters
- 6 slices cheddar or Swiss cheese, cut into quarters
Glaze
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for a sweet glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking.
- Assemble the sandwiches: Lay half of the Ritz crackers salted side down on the baking sheet. Place a quarter slice of ham and a quarter slice of cheddar or Swiss cheese on each cracker, then top with another Ritz cracker, salted side up, to create small sandwich stacks.
- Mix the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds if using, garlic powder, and honey or brown sugar if you prefer a sweeter glaze.
- Brush and bake: Generously brush the tops of each assembled sandwich with the butter glaze mixture. Bake in the preheated oven for 7 to 9 minutes until the cheese has melted and the tops become golden and slightly crispy.
- Serve warm: Allow the sandwiches to cool on the baking sheet for 2 to 3 minutes before serving. These make perfect warm appetizers for parties or game day snacks.
Notes
- Feel free to switch up the cheese with your favorite type such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor.
- For a vegan or vegetarian version, substitute ham and cheese with plant-based alternatives.
- If you prefer a less sweet glaze, omit the honey or brown sugar.
- Make sure to bake only until the cheese melts to keep the crackers crispy and not soggy.
- These sandwiches are best served fresh but can be reheated briefly in the oven or air fryer.
Keywords: Ritz cracker sandwiches, party appetizers, ham and cheese bites, easy snack recipes, game day snacks
