Garlic Ritz Snacks

Introduction

There’s something magical about a simple, yet addictive snack that everyone can enjoy. When I first made Garlic Ritz Snacks for a family gathering, I couldn’t believe how quickly they disappeared. The combination of the buttery crackers with the perfect balance of garlic, herbs, and Parmesan makes them irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer, an easy snack, or something to munch on while watching a movie, these Garlic Ritz Snacks are the perfect treat. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the flavor explosion of garlic and cheese makes them a hit every time.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Ritz Snacks

Garlic Ritz Snacks are one of those snacks that are easy to make, but leave everyone thinking you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. They’re buttery, crispy, and packed with flavor from the garlic, Parmesan, and herbs. Not only are they incredibly easy to whip up, but they also make for a versatile treat. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a casual get-together, or simply craving a savory snack, these crackers hit the spot every time.

What’s even better is how customizable this recipe can be. If you love garlic, you can always add a little more to enhance the flavor. Want a little extra kick? A dash of red pepper flakes or chili powder will spice things up. You can also try different herbs depending on your preference. These little snacks are so simple, yet so full of flavor, and they can be enjoyed on their own or paired with your favorite dips.

Ingredients

• 1 box Ritz crackers
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This ensures the crackers will bake evenly and become crispy without burning.
2. Prepare the garlic butter mixture: In a small bowl, melt the butter and then mix in the garlic powder, dried parsley, and salt. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined. This will give the crackers that irresistible garlic flavor that everyone will love.
3. Arrange the crackers: Lay the Ritz crackers on a baking sheet in a single layer. You want to make sure they’re not overlapping so they bake evenly.
4. Brush the crackers: Using a brush or spoon, drizzle or brush the garlic butter mixture over each cracker. Make sure each cracker gets a good amount of the mixture, but not too much that it becomes soggy.
5. Add Parmesan: After brushing the crackers with the garlic butter mixture, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of each cracker. The cheese will melt and become golden, adding another layer of flavor.
6. Bake the crackers: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the crackers turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning, as ovens may vary.
7. Cool and serve: Once the crackers are golden and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This will allow them to set and become even crispier. Then, serve and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6 servings (about 12 crackers per serving)
• Calories per serving: 160
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 350mg
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 2g

Note: The nutritional information provided is an estimate based on one serving (about 12 crackers) and may vary depending on portion size and ingredient brands used.

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes

How to Serve

These Garlic Ritz Snacks are perfect for any occasion and can be served in a variety of ways:

• As a Snack: Serve them as a standalone snack for movie nights, game days, or casual gatherings. Their crispy texture and bold flavor make them a satisfying treat.
• As an Appetizer: Place them in a serving dish alongside some dips like guacamole, salsa, or cheese dip for a party-ready appetizer.
• With Cheese: Pair them with a variety of cheeses such as cheddar, brie, or cream cheese for a delicious cheese platter.
• With Drinks: These crackers make a great accompaniment to cocktails, beer, or wine. Their savory flavor complements a wide range of beverages.
• For Lunch or Dinner: Serve them as a side to soups or salads. Their crispy texture adds a satisfying crunch to any meal.

Additional Tips

1. Customize the Seasonings: If you’re a fan of extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for some heat. You can also try mixing in some Italian seasoning for a more Mediterranean vibe.
2. Use Fresh Herbs: While dried parsley works well, you can switch it up with fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary. Fresh herbs will give the crackers an aromatic and vibrant flavor.
3. Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the crackers while they bake to ensure they don’t burn. Once they’re golden brown, they’re ready to come out of the oven.
4. Make a Big Batch: This recipe is easily scalable. Make a double batch if you’re hosting a party or a large gathering. Just make sure you have enough baking sheets and enough space in your oven to accommodate all the crackers.
5. Store the Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of cracker?
   Yes, you can use any type of plain cracker, but Ritz crackers are ideal due to their buttery flavor and crispy texture.
2. Can I make this recipe without butter?
   If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative.
3. How can I make these crackers spicy?
   You can add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even a drizzle of hot sauce to the garlic butter mixture to add some spice.
4. Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
   Yes, you can use fresh garlic, but you’ll need to mince it finely. Use about 1 clove of garlic for the recipe.
5. Can I make these crackers ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. Just reheat them in the oven to crisp them back up before serving.
6. Can I freeze these Garlic Ritz Snacks?
   While these crackers are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake them at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes.
7. How can I make these crackers more cheesy?
   You can increase the amount of Parmesan cheese or add another type of cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella for an extra cheesy flavor.
8. What can I serve with these crackers?
   These crackers pair well with dips such as hummus, guacamole, salsa, or cheese dip. They also work great on their own as a snack.
9. How many servings does this recipe make?
   This recipe makes about 6 servings, with roughly 12 crackers per serving.
10. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?
    Yes, you can use Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or any other hard cheese in place of Parmesan for a different flavor.

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Garlic Ritz Snacks are the perfect blend of savory, crispy, and cheesy. Whether you’re looking for a snack for yourself or a crowd-pleasing appetizer for a party, these little crackers fit the bill. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a snack that will be gone in a flash.

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