Description
Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches are bite-sized, buttery, savory snacks perfect for parties, gatherings, game days, or quick appetizers. With layers of ham, Swiss cheese, and a flavorful buttery glaze, these mini sandwiches deliver big flavor in a fun, crunchy form.
Introduction
These mini sandwiches combine the irresistible crunch of Ritz crackers with melted cheese and tender deli meat, all topped with a seasoned butter mixture that bakes into a golden, flavorful finish. They’re easy to assemble, bake quickly, and are guaranteed crowd-pleasers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Made with simple, easy-to-find ingredients
- Perfect for parties, potlucks, and holiday gatherings
- Customizable with different meats, cheeses, and toppings
- Quick to assemble and bake
- Loved by kids and adults alike
Ingredients
- 48 Ritz crackers
- 8 slices deli ham
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon dried minced onion
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
Step 2: Prepare the Ham and Cheese
Cut the ham and Swiss cheese slices into quarters so they fit neatly on the crackers. You should have 24 small pieces of ham and 24 pieces of cheese.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches
Place 24 Ritz crackers on the baking sheet. Top each with a piece of ham, then a piece of cheese. Add the remaining 24 Ritz crackers on top to form sandwiches.
Step 4: Make the Butter Mixture
Whisk together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, poppy seeds, and dried minced onion.
Step 5: Brush the Sandwiches
Use a pastry brush to generously coat the tops of the sandwiches with the butter mixture.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crackers are golden.
Step 7: Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool for 1 minute. Serve warm and enjoy.
Variations
1. Ritz Turkey Club Sandwiches
Swap ham for turkey and add a small piece of crispy cooked bacon.
2. Ritz Pepperoni Pizza Sandwiches
Use pepperoni and mozzarella, and add Italian herbs to the butter mixture.
3. Ritz Veggie Sandwiches
Use roasted zucchini, roasted red peppers, or mushrooms with provolone for a vegetarian option.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip brushing the tops—this adds flavor and helps the crackers toast beautifully.
- Bake immediately after brushing to keep the crackers crisp.
- Cut the cheese evenly so it melts at the same rate.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the oven for best crispiness.
- To freeze, assemble the sandwiches without the butter mixture and freeze for up to 1 month. Add the butter mixture before baking.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve on a party platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
- Pair with dips such as honey mustard or ranch.
- Great alongside soups or salads as a fun snack.
FAQs
Q: Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble them and refrigerate. Brush with butter mixture right before baking.
Q: What cheeses work best besides Swiss?
Cheddar, provolone, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella.
Q: Can I make them without poppy seeds?
Absolutely—just leave them out or replace with sesame seeds.
Conclusion
These Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches are simple, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. With customizable fillings and a buttery, savory glaze, they’re sure to become a go-to appetizer everyone loves.