If you’re someone who believes snack time should feel just as special as dinner, Garlic Ritz Snacks are about to become your new obsession. These buttery, garlicky bites transform humble Ritz crackers into something absolutely crave-worthy, perfumed with garlicky goodness and finished with the perfect hint of herby freshness. Whether you’re pulling together a last-minute appetizer or want to treat yourself to a savory little pick-me-up, Garlic Ritz Snacks will have you happily reaching for seconds (and thirds!).
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is essential, yet oh-so-simple. Together, they create layers of savory flavor and that tempting snackable crunch you just can’t get from anything store-bought.
- Ritz crackers: These classic crackers are the perfect buttery canvas and hold up beautifully to the savory coating.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Butter adds that unmistakable richness and helps all the flavorings stick to each cracker.
- Garlic powder: The star of the show! It brings big garlicky aroma and taste without the harshness of raw garlic.
- Dried parsley: This simple herb adds a pop of color and a hint of earthiness that complements the garlic.
- Salt: Just the right amount heightens all the other flavors and brings the snack together.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): If you want a savory, nutty kick, this finishing touch adds complexity and an irresistible golden hue.
How to Make Garlic Ritz Snacks
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Before you get started, set your oven to preheat at 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep cleanup a breeze and prevent sticking. This simple step sets you up for perfect, even baking.
Step 2: Mix the Savory Coating
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, garlic powder, dried parsley, and salt. Take a moment to inhale that buttery, garlicky aroma—it’s a sign of delicious things to come! Make sure everything is fully combined so every cracker gets its fair share of flavor.
Step 3: Coat the Crackers
Place your Ritz crackers gently in a large mixing bowl. Pour that fragrant butter mixture right over the top. Now, with a light hand, gently toss the crackers until each one is evenly coated. Take care not to break them—they’re deliciously delicate!
Step 4: Arrange and Top
Spread the coated crackers in a single, even layer on your prepared baking sheet. If you’re going for extra flavor, sprinkle the optional Parmesan cheese across the crackers now. It will melt into a golden, savory crust during baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into the oven and let your Garlic Ritz Snacks bake for about 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them toward the end—you want the edges golden and the aroma irresistible. Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool completely (if you can wait!).
How to Serve Garlic Ritz Snacks
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a light dusting of extra Parmesan right after baking adds bright color and a touch of fancy flair. For a little zing, scatter a few red pepper flakes across the top while they’re warm.
Side Dishes
Garlic Ritz Snacks shine on their own, but they’re also stellar dipped into creamy hummus, tangy ranch, or mellow cheese dips. For a party spread, serve them alongside cut veggies, olives, or a crisp green salad.
Creative Ways to Present
For an irresistible snack board, pile Garlic Ritz Snacks in a pretty bowl or fan them out on a platter with bowls of your favorite dips. You could even tuck a few into a lunchbox or use them as a crunchy topping for homemade soups and salads!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any remaining Garlic Ritz Snacks fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay crispy and flavorful for up to three days, making them perfect for prepping ahead.
Freezing
While freezing isn’t necessary for these quick-to-make snacks, you can freeze baked crackers in a zip-top bag for up to a month. Just make sure they’ve cooled completely, and be aware that texture may soften slightly when thawed.
Reheating
To revive their crispiness, spread the Garlic Ritz Snacks on a baking sheet and warm at 275°F (135°C) for about five minutes. Let cool a bit before enjoying—they’ll be delightfully crunchy again!
FAQs
Can I use a different type Snack
Absolutely! While Ritz are classic, you can swap in any buttery, sturdy round cracker you love. Just be mindful of the baking time, as thinner crackers may crisp up faster.
Is fresh garlic okay instead of garlic powder?
You can use finely minced fresh garlic, but garlic powder coats more evenly and won’t burn in the oven. For the easiest, most even flavor, stick with the powder.
How spicy can I make these snacks?
For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the butter mixture before tossing. Adjust to your taste—these snacks happily take on extra flavor!
Are Garlic Ritz Snacks gluten-free?
Since traditional Ritz crackers contain wheat, they’re not gluten-free. However, you can use your favorite gluten-free buttery cracker to make this recipe work for your needs.
Can I double this recipe for a party?
Definitely! Just use two baking sheets if needed and bake in batches or side by side. Everyone will be thrilled to have extra Garlic Ritz Snacks on hand.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the simple magic of Garlic Ritz Snacks—easy enough for an afternoon treat, but so delicious they steal the show at any gathering. Give them a try and see how fast they disappear. Happy snacking!
Print
Garlic Ritz Snacks Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Garlic Ritz Snacks are a delicious and easy-to-make savory treat perfect for snacking or entertaining. With a buttery garlic-parsley coating and a hint of Parmesan cheese, these baked Ritz crackers are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Ritz Crackers:
Butter Mixture:
Optional:
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Butter and Seasonings: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, garlic powder, dried parsley, and salt.
- Coat Crackers: Place Ritz crackers in a large mixing bowl, pour the butter mixture over them, and gently toss to coat evenly.
- Bake: Arrange coated crackers on the baking sheet, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired, and bake for 15 minutes.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool before serving.
Notes
- These snacks are great warm or at room temperature.
- Adjust garlic powder to taste or add cayenne pepper for spice.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: about 5 crackers
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
