Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches
These bite-sized sandwiches are perfect for gatherings, quick snacks, or even as a simple appetizer. With the crunch of Ritz crackers, savory ham, melty Swiss cheese, and a flavorful butter glaze, this recipe delivers a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
- 48 Ritz crackers
- 8 slices deli ham, cut into smaller pieces
- 8 slices Swiss cheese, cut into smaller pieces
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon dried minced onion
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to warm up while you prepare the sandwiches.
- Prepare the Baking Tray
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Slice the Ham and Cheese
- Cut the ham and Swiss cheese into smaller pieces that fit the size of the crackers. Each slice should yield about four pieces.
- Assemble the Sandwiches
- Lay half of the Ritz crackers on the prepared baking sheet.
- Place a piece of ham and cheese on each cracker.
- Top with the remaining crackers to form sandwiches.
- Make the Butter Mixture
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, poppy seeds, and dried minced onion until well combined.
- Add the Butter Glaze
- Use a brush or spoon to evenly spread the butter mixture over the tops of the sandwiches.
- Bake the Sandwiches
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crackers are golden brown.
- Cool and Serve
- Allow the sandwiches to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love These Sandwiches
These Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches are easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. The buttery, seasoned glaze elevates the simple ingredients into a snack that’s flavorful and satisfying. Perfect for parties, game days, or as an easy snack for the family!
FAQs for Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese adds a creamy and slightly nutty flavor, you can substitute it with cheddar, provolone, mozzarella, or any cheese you prefer.
2. Can I prepare these sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the sandwiches and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before baking. Add the butter mixture just before placing them in the oven.
3. Can I use a different type of cracker?
Yes, any sturdy, bite-sized cracker can work. However, Ritz crackers add a buttery, flaky texture that’s perfect for this recipe.
4. What can I use instead of poppy seeds?
If you don’t have poppy seeds, you can skip them or use sesame seeds for a similar look and subtle flavor.
5. Can I make these sandwiches vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the ham with thinly sliced veggies like zucchini, roasted red peppers, or even a slice of tomato for a vegetarian version.
6. How do I prevent the crackers from becoming soggy?
To keep the crackers crispy, don’t assemble the sandwiches too far in advance. Bake them shortly after adding the butter mixture to avoid excess moisture absorption.
7. How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in a 300°F oven for a few minutes to crisp them back up.
8. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute, though butter will provide a richer flavor.
9. Can I add extra seasonings to the butter mixture?
Definitely! You can enhance the flavor with additional seasonings like smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or Italian herbs.
10. What are some good dips to serve with these sandwiches?
These sandwiches pair wonderfully with dips like honey mustard, ranch, marinara, or a cheese sauce for an extra indulgent treat.