There’s something magical about the combination of buttery garlic, herbs, and cheese that transforms ordinary crackers into extraordinary bites. When I first discovered this recipe during a particularly busy week, I was searching for a quick appetizer that would impress guests without keeping me tied to the kitchen. Little did I know that these Garlic Bread Ritz Bits would become my go-to party snack and movie night treat.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – just five ingredients and less than 20 minutes from start to finish. Moreover, the irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen while these bake is enough to draw everyone to the kitchen before they’re even ready.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
Perfect for Any Occasion
These crispy, cheesy morsels work beautifully as party appetizers, game day snacks, or even as a crunchy addition to soups and salads. Additionally, they’re incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit different taste preferences.
Foolproof and Fast
Unlike complicated appetizers that require multiple steps and precise timing, this recipe is virtually impossible to mess up. Furthermore, the 19-minute total time means you can whip them up even when unexpected guests arrive.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor
The combination of garlic, Italian herbs, and parmesan creates that beloved garlic bread flavor in a convenient, bite-sized format. Even picky eaters find themselves reaching for more.
Essential Ingredients
Main Components
- 500 grams cheese Ritz Bits (2 x 250g boxes) – The foundation of our crispy snack
- 170 grams unsalted butter, melted – Creates the perfect coating base
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder – Delivers that signature garlic bread flavor
- 0.5 teaspoon onion powder – Adds depth and complexity
- 1.5 teaspoons Italian seasoning – Brings herbal notes that complement the cheese
- 120 grams grated parmesan cheese – The finishing touch for extra richness
Quality Tips
Choose high-quality parmesan for the best flavor – freshly grated works better than pre-packaged options. Similarly, using real butter instead of margarine makes a noticeable difference in taste and texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Phase
Begin by preheating your oven to 190°C and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This preparation ensures even baking and easy cleanup later.
Creating the Flavor Base
Place the cheese Ritz Bits in a large mixing bowl and set aside. In a separate small bowl, melt the butter completely. Once melted, whisk in the garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning until the mixture is well combined and fragrant.
Coating Process
Pour the seasoned melted butter over the crackers, ensuring every piece gets coated. Toss thoroughly using a large spoon or your hands – don’t be afraid to really mix them well. Subsequently, sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the buttery crackers and toss gently once more to distribute the cheese evenly.
Baking to Perfection
Spread the seasoned crackers in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding, as this can lead to uneven browning. Bake for 7 to 9 minutes, watching carefully during the last few minutes to prevent over-browning.
Final Steps
Remove from the oven when the crackers are golden brown and fragrant. Allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring to storage containers – this cooling period is crucial for achieving maximum crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
Party Presentation
Serve these garlic bread bites in small bowls scattered around your entertaining space. They pair wonderfully with wine, beer, or even sparkling water with lemon.
Meal Enhancements
Try sprinkling them over Caesar salads for extra crunch, or serve alongside tomato soup as a flavorful alternative to traditional crackers. They also make excellent additions to cheese and charcuterie boards.
Recipe Variations
Spicy Kick Version
Add 0.25 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the butter mixture for those who enjoy heat. This small addition transforms the flavor profile without overwhelming the garlic and cheese.
Herb Lover’s Twist
Replace the Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano. Use about 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
Extra Cheesy Option
Mix in 60 grams of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese along with the parmesan for an even more indulgent treat.
Make-Ahead Tips
Storage Solutions
These garlic bread bites stay fresh in an airtight container for up to one week at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze them in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
Batch Preparation
Double or triple the recipe easily for large gatherings. Use multiple baking sheets and rotate them halfway through baking for even results.
Refresh Method
If the crackers lose their crispness, spread them on a baking sheet and warm in a 150°C oven for 3-5 minutes to restore their crunch.
Important Notes
Baking Success Tips
Spreading the crackers in a single layer is crucial for optimal crispiness. Overcrowding leads to steaming rather than crisping, which affects the final texture.
Temperature Monitoring
Every oven is different, so start checking at the 7-minute mark. The crackers should be golden brown but not dark brown, as they’ll continue cooking slightly after removal from the oven.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Absolutely! However, reduce any additional salt in the recipe since Ritz Bits already contain salt. The parmesan cheese also adds saltiness, so taste as you go.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
Create your own blend using equal parts dried basil, oregano, and thyme. A pinch of dried rosemary works well too, though crush it finely before adding.
Can I make these without cheese?
Yes, though the flavor will be different. Increase the garlic powder to 2.5 teaspoons and add a pinch of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How do I know when they’re done?
Look for a golden-brown color and listen for a slight sizzling sound. The crackers should appear slightly darker than when you put them in, but not burnt.
Can I use different types of crackers?
While Ritz Bits work best due to their size and cheese filling, you can experiment with oyster crackers or small pretzel bites. Adjust the baking time accordingly, as different crackers may cook faster or slower.
Recipe Summary:
- Prep Time: 10 Minutes
- Cook Time: 9 Minutes
- Total Time: 19 Minutes
- Servings: 12 (Approximately 1.2 kg finished crackers)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: American
- Dietary: Vegetarian
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 235
- Total Fat: 14g
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 5g
Allergy Information: Contains gluten, dairy, and may contain traces of soy.