Garlic Bread Ritz Bits are the ultimate snack mashup you didn’t know you needed. This irresistible treat combines the nostalgic crunch of Cheese Ritz Bits with the buttery, garlicky goodness of classic garlic bread. Whether you’re hosting friends, planning a movie night, or just craving something savory, this recipe delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. It’s quick to prepare, addictively tasty, and perfect for sharing—or not.
This recipe doesn’t require fancy ingredients or techniques. In fact, it’s so simple, you’ll want to make it a permanent addition to your snack rotation. Let’s dive into the full recipe, including all the steps, tips, and FAQs to help you make the perfect batch.
Why You’ll Love Garlic Bread Ritz Bits
- Simple ingredients – All pantry staples.
- Quick prep and bake – Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Crowd-pleasing flavor – Buttery, cheesy, garlicky.
- Versatile – Great as a party snack, game-day treat, or late-night bite.
- Easy to store – Keeps well in an airtight container for days.
Ingredients
To achieve that mouthwatering garlic bread flavor, you only need a handful of everyday ingredients. Here’s everything required:
What You’ll Need
- 2 boxes (8.8 oz each) Cheese Ritz Bits
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
These ingredients come together to create a savory coating that turns simple crackers into a flavor-packed snack.
How to Make Garlic Bread Ritz Bits
This recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly. Follow these steps to get perfectly crispy, garlic-butter-coated Ritz Bits every time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This moderate temperature helps the butter soak in without burning the crackers.
Step 2: Place Crackers in a Bowl
Pour the Cheese Ritz Bits into a large mixing bowl. This gives you enough room to evenly coat them with the seasoning mixture.
Step 3: Mix the Garlic Butter
In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning until fully combined. The aroma alone will convince you you’re on the right track.
Step 4: Coat the Crackers
Drizzle the garlic butter over the Ritz Bits. Use a spatula or your hands to gently toss the crackers, making sure each one gets a coating of that rich, savory butter.
Step 5: Add Parmesan
Next, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese into the bowl. Toss again to distribute the cheese evenly throughout the crackers. The cheese will stick to the butter, ensuring every bite has flavor and crunch.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Line one or two large baking sheets with parchment paper or foil. Spread the coated crackers in a single layer—avoid overcrowding for even crisping. Bake for 15–20 minutes, stirring halfway through. The goal is a golden color and a toasted, crunchy finish.
Step 7: Cool Completely
Remove from the oven and let them cool on the tray. As they cool, they’ll become extra crispy. Once cooled, store in an airtight container or serve immediately.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t skip the tosses – Thorough mixing ensures every cracker gets flavor.
- Use fresh Parmesan – Freshly grated Parmesan has better texture and melts beautifully compared to pre-packaged.
- Watch your oven – Ovens vary; check around the 15-minute mark to avoid over-browning.
- Try variations – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or swap Italian seasoning for ranch mix for a twist.
- Store smart – Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Re-crisp in the oven if needed.
Serving Ideas
Garlic Bread Ritz Bits are excellent for:
- Game day snacks – Serve in a big bowl for sharing during sports events.
- Appetizer trays – Pair with cured meats, cheeses, or veggie sticks.
- Lunchbox addition – A flavorful side to a simple sandwich or salad.
- Movie night – Replace traditional popcorn with something richer and crunchier.
- Gift idea – Package in mason jars or snack bags as homemade treats for friends.
FAQs
Can I use plain Ritz Bits instead of cheese-filled ones?
Yes, but the cheese version adds extra flavor. If you use plain Ritz Bits, consider adding a sprinkle of shredded cheddar to compensate.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can substitute with gluten-free cheese crackers, though texture and flavor may vary slightly.
How do I store Garlic Bread Ritz Bits?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. To crisp them up again, pop them in a 250°F oven for 5 minutes.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. These are perfect for prepping a day or two in advance—just be sure to cool them completely before storing.
Is there a dairy-free version?
To make it dairy-free, use dairy-free butter and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative. However, the flavor and texture will differ.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! This recipe scales well. Just make sure to bake in batches or use multiple trays to avoid crowding.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Bread Ritz Bits are a simple, flavorful snack that hits all the right notes—crispy, cheesy, garlicky, and totally addictive. With just a few ingredients and under 30 minutes of your time, you’ll have a snack that tastes like it took much more effort. It’s perfect for sharing, gifting, or just treating yourself.
Try it once, and it might just become your go-to for any gathering or late-night craving.