Parmesan Garlic Ritz Bites are a delectable and easy-to-make snack that combines the buttery goodness of Ritz crackers with the rich flavors of Parmesan cheese and garlic. These bites are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a savory snack, or want to add a crunchy topping to your soups and salads. The combination of melted butter, Parmesan, and garlic creates a savory treat that’s both flavorful and satisfying. With a short baking time, you can whip up these bites in no time, making them a convenient and tasty addition to your snack repertoire.
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
Making Parmesan Garlic Ritz Bites is a breeze, and the results are absolutely delicious. The recipe is straightforward, requiring only a few simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The buttery Ritz crackers provide a perfect base, while the Parmesan cheese and garlic add a burst of flavor that will keep you coming back for more. These bites are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various occasions, from casual snacking to elegant appetizers. Plus, they can be customized with different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of whole Ritz crackers
- ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup of unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
Equipment Used
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure out the ingredients accurately.
- Whisk or Spoon: For mixing the ingredients together.
- Baking Sheet: To bake the Ritz bites.
- Parchment Paper: To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
- Small Bowl: For melting the butter.
- Pastry Brush: To brush the butter mixture over the Ritz bites.
Directions & Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix together the Ritz crackers, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the cracker mixture. Gently toss until all the crackers are evenly coated with the butter and seasoning mixture.
- Arrange the coated crackers in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the crackers turn golden and become crispy.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the crackers to cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 150 per serving
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 3g
Variations
- Cheesy Ritz Bites: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese to the mixture for an extra cheesy flavor.
- Herb Ritz Bites: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to add a unique twist.
- Spicy Ritz Bites: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use other types of crackers? A: Yes, you can use other bite-sized crackers or even pretzels for this recipe.
Q: How do I store leftover Ritz Bites? A: Store leftover Ritz Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make these ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for several days.
Pro Tips By Emma
- Tip 1: Make sure the butter is fully melted and warm before drizzling it over the crackers for even coating.
- Tip 2: For extra crispiness, bake the crackers on a wire rack placed on the baking sheet.
- Tip 3: If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, increase the amount of garlic powder to 1.5 tablespoons.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these Parmesan Garlic Ritz Bites as an appetizer with your favorite dips like ranch or marinara sauce.
- Use them as a crunchy topping for creamy soups or fresh salads.
- Enjoy them as a savory snack on their own or pair them with a cheese platter for a delightful treat.
Irresistible Parmesan Garlic Ritz Bites: A Perfect Snack
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure out the ingredients accurately.
- Whisk or Spoon: For mixing the ingredients together.
- Baking Sheet: To bake the Ritz bites.
- Parchment Paper: To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
- Small Bowl: For melting the butter.
- Pastry Brush: To brush the butter mixture over the Ritz bites.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of whole Ritz crackers
- ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup of unsalted butter melted
- 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix together the Ritz crackers, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the cracker mixture. Gently toss until all the crackers are evenly coated with the butter and seasoning mixture.
- Arrange the coated crackers in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the crackers turn golden and become crispy.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the crackers to cool for about 5 minutes before serving.