Garlic Bread Ritz Bits

Craving all the comfort of garlic bread but need a crunchy snack you can whip up fast These Garlic Bread Ritz Bits have become my last minute go to for big game days family movie nights or even a simple solution when unexpected guests stop by With only a few staple ingredients these are always a crowd pleaser

My go to for party snacks these never last long at gatherings My brother once ate half a batch before dinner and now insists they are a holiday must

Ingredients

• Ritz crackers: Use the classic variety for the signature buttery crunch Make sure they are whole so they hold up to coating
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best for intense flavor and even melting Look for blocks of Parmesan rather than pre shredded
• Unsalted butter: Choose high quality butter for a richer taste Melt thoroughly for easy coating
• Garlic powder: Opt for a fine ground powder for maximum coverage and bold flavor Taste your garlic powder first some brands run quite strong
• Dried parsley: Adds herby freshness and color Check that your parsley is still vivid green for best quality
• Salt: Enhances both the crackers and cheese A flaky finishing salt can also work
• Black pepper: Rounds out the flavor Pick coarse ground for extra kick

Step by Step Instructions

Prep the Oven:

Preheat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit This ensures even crisping as soon as the crackers hit the pan

Mix the Flavor Base:

In a medium bowl combine your whole Ritz crackers grated Parmesan cheese garlic powder dried parsley salt and black pepper Toss gently to start mixing the seasonings

Add the Butter:

Drizzle melted unsalted butter evenly over the cracker mixture Slowly stir or toss until every cracker is glossy and evenly coated

Arrange on Baking Sheet:

Spread the coated crackers in a single layer on a baking sheet Try not to overlap for maximum crunch on each side

Bake to Perfection:

Place the tray in your preheated oven Bake for ten to twelve minutes or until the crackers look golden and the cheese is crisped Watch closely at the end to avoid burning

Cool and Serve:

Remove the tray from the oven and allow the crackers to cool for about five minutes This lets the coating set and gives you perfect crispy bites

Save

I always look forward to the Parmesan cheese melting slightly and crisping up along the crackers It gives the whole kitchen that irresistible garlic bread aroma My nephew once helped me sprinkle the cheese and now he proudly calls them his special party snack

Storage Tips

Keep your garlic bread bits crispy by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature Let them cool completely before sealing to avoid trapped moisture which makes them soggy If you somehow have leftovers they hold up well for four to five days

Ingredient Substitutions

If Parmesan is not on hand Pecorino Romano works beautifully For a spicy twist try a pinch of red pepper flakes You can swap Ritz for any buttery round cracker but the classic flavor gives the best result

Serving Suggestions

Save

These make a perfect topping for salads and soups or even as an unexpected side for pasta I love piling them in a bowl for sharing but they are also great tucked into lunchboxes as a flavorful snack

Cultural and Historical Context

Garlic bread has roots in Italian American cooking known for its comforting and approachable flavors Turning that into a snackable form brings together nostalgia and creativity Smart ingredient swaps like these crackers offer all the flavor of classic garlic bread with a unique textural spin

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?

Yes, finely minced fresh garlic can be used, though garlic powder distributes flavor more evenly across the crackers.

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

Use a microwave-safe bowl or a small saucepan over low heat for even melting without browning the butter.

→ Can I substitute Ritz crackers with other types?

Similar buttery round crackers work well if Ritz isn't available. Adjust baking time if sizes differ.

→ How should I store leftover Garlic Bread Ritz Bits?

Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

→ Can I add other seasonings for variety?

Absolutely—try adding crushed red pepper, Italian seasoning, or a pinch of smoked paprika for extra flavor.

→ Should the Parmesan be fresh or pre-grated?

Freshly grated Parmesan offers the best flavor, but pre-grated works fine for convenience and ease.