About This Recipe
Crispy, cheesy, buttery Ritz crackers topped with ham and cheese - the perfect party snack!
Ingredients
- 1 box Ritz crackers
- 8 oz sliced deli ham, cut into squares
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley (optional)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Kitchen Tools
Instructions
Chef's Tips
- Use high-quality deli ham and cheese for the best flavor.
- Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
- Don’t overbake the crackers, as they can become too dry.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbaking the crackers.
- Using too much butter, making the crackers greasy.
- Not using enough cheese.
- Skipping the seasoned butter.
Variations
- Pizza Bites: Use pepperoni instead of ham and add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning and a dollop of marinara sauce.
- Buffalo Chicken Bites: Use shredded cooked chicken, buffalo wing sauce, and a sprinkle of blue cheese crumbles.
- Spinach and Artichoke Bites: Mix spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese for a creamy and flavorful topping.
- Jalapeño Popper Bites: Mix cream cheese, shredded cheddar, diced jalapeños, and a sprinkle of bacon bits.
Storage & Freezing
Store leftover Cheesy Baked Ham and Ritz Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven for best results.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Baked Ham and Ritz Bites are the perfect snack for any occasion. They’re quick, easy, and incredibly delicious. With their crispy crackers, savory ham, and gooey cheese, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Frequently Asked Questions
While Ritz crackers are the classic choice, you can experiment with other buttery crackers. Just make sure they are sturdy enough to hold the toppings.
Yes, you can assemble the cracker sandwiches ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just brush with the butter mixture before baking.
It's not recommended to freeze these, as the crackers may become soggy when thawed. They are best enjoyed fresh.
You can substitute with a clove of minced garlic, but be careful not to use too much, as it can be overpowering.
While you can use pre-shredded cheese, freshly shredded cheese melts more evenly and has a better flavor.
These can be adapted to be gluten-free by using gluten-free crackers. Always check the labels of all ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.