Garlic Bread Ritz Bits

There is something addictive about these Garlic Bread Ritz Bits their buttery crunch and burst of parmesan always disappear fast at game night or movie marathons. Turning a childhood classic into a savory snack means these will wow kids and grown-ups every time.

I discovered this trick while prepping snacks for my nephew’s birthday and now my family begs me to whip up a batch whenever there is a get-together or road trip. They always vanish by the handful.

• Cheese Ritz Bits: mini cheese-filled crackers are the star these soak up butter and seasonings easily look for fresh boxes without broken pieces
• Butter: brings classic garlic bread richness use unsalted so you can control saltiness
• Garlic powder: adds that signature garlic bread punch choose one with a strong aroma and fine texture
• Onion powder: layers in background savoriness go for a clump-free powder
• Italian seasoning: blends herbs like oregano and basil adding warmth buy a blend that lists real herbs first
• Parmesan cheese: creates a cheesy savory crust freshy grated melts best and gives the boldest flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Melt and Flavor the Butter:

Melt your butter completely either in a microwave or on the stove then whisk in garlic powder onion powder and Italian seasoning making sure there are no clumps. This step blooms the flavors and gives every cracker a savory kick.

Combine the Crackers:

Pour your cheese Ritz Bits into a roomy mixing bowl. Using a spatula or your hands ensure these are as whole and unbroken as possible for the best crunch.

Toss with Butter Mixture:

Drizzle the seasoned melted butter over the crackers. Toss well and keep turning so each bite gets a glossy coating. Pause to scrape the bottom of the bowl to catch every bit of that herby butter.

Add Parmesan Cheese:

Sprinkle grated parmesan evenly over the buttered crackers. Toss again so the cheese sticks to the coating and does not clump. This locks in even flavor and guarantees golden cheesy flecks later.

Bake to Perfection:

Spread the cheesy crackers onto a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single even layer to help everything crisp not steam. Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for seven to nine minutes and watch for deep golden edges.

Cool and Store:

Once golden remove the tray and let the crackers cool fully so the cheese sets and the crackers stay crisp. Store airtight in a bag or container to lock in their crunch for days.

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I am obsessed with freshly grated parmesan for this recipe. One time we tried it with the pre-bagged kind and it just did not melt or coat the crackers right. Once I started using my microplane the result was always next level the cheese melts into the butter making these snack crackers taste like the best part of garlic bread.

Storage Tips

To keep the crunch store Garlic Bread Ritz Bits in an airtight container once they are completely cool. If you notice any softness later just pop them back in a hot oven for two or three minutes and let them cool again. This quick refresh works wonders especially if you are prepping a big batch before a party.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap out the cheese Ritz Bits for plain Ritz crackers quartered if needed or another brand of mini cheese sandwich crackers. For the herbs Italian seasoning is traditional but you can use a mix of dried oregano parsley or basil individually if you do not have a pre-made blend. Freshly grated pecorino or asiago cheese will also work for a different cheesy note.

Serving Suggestions

Pile these up in a big bowl for game day or set out in snack bags for car rides and picnics. My family loves them as a crunchy topping over soups and salads since they give you that addictive garlic bread flavor but with extra crunch in every spoonful. Try them next to a warm bowl of tomato soup for a nostalgic snacky lunch that tastes like childhood.

Cultural and Historical Context

Turning ordinary crackers into seasoned snacks is a trick that goes way back. Home cooks have always found ways to level up pantry staples with butter herbs and cheese for quick party treats. These Garlic Bread Ritz Bits are a new-school riff paying tribute to everyone’s love of garlic bread and our nostalgia for snack crackers that made after-school afternoons so special.

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Once you try this snack you will always want to keep a box of cheese Ritz Bits in your pantry for those garlic bread cravings. Just beware they rarely last more than a day in a house full of hungry snackers.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different cracker besides Ritz Bits?

Yes, mini sandwich crackers or similar small cheese crackers work well for this method, though textures may vary.

→ Is fresh garlic recommended over garlic powder?

Garlic powder evenly distributes flavor without burning, but you can finely mince fresh garlic for a bolder taste.

→ How do I store the finished snack?

After cooling completely, keep them in an airtight bag or container to maintain their crispness for several days.

→ What’s the best way to melt the butter?

Use a microwave or stovetop, heating the butter just until melted to mix easily with seasonings.

→ Can I customize the seasonings?

Feel free to adjust Italian seasoning, add chili flakes, or experiment with other favorite herbs and spices.