Ham and Swiss Cracker Melts Recipe

Introduction

Ham and Swiss Cracker Melts are a quick and delicious snack that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. These mini sandwiches combine savory ham, melted Swiss cheese, and flavorful toppings all baked on buttery Ritz crackers. They’re simple to assemble and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 48 Ritz crackers
• 8 slices deli ham
• 8 slices Swiss cheese
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon dried minced onion

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: Arrange half of the Ritz crackers (24 crackers) in a 9×13-inch baking dish, flat side down.
3. Step 3: Tear the ham slices into small strips and place a piece on top of each cracker.
4. Step 4: Cut the Swiss cheese into small, 1-inch squares and place one piece on top of the ham.
5. Step 5: Top each with another Ritz cracker to form mini sandwiches.
6. Step 6: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Stir well.
7. Step 7: Pour the butter mixture evenly over the top of the cracker sandwiches.
8. Step 8: Sprinkle the poppy seeds and dried minced onion evenly over the crackers.
9. Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the cracker tops are golden brown.
10. Step 10: Serve the cracker melts warm and enjoy as a savory snack or appetizer!

Tips & Variations

• Use sharp or aged Swiss cheese for a stronger flavor.
• Swap Dijon mustard for spicy brown mustard for a different kick.
• Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the butter mixture for extra spice.
• For a vegetarian version, replace ham with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.

Storage

Store any leftover cracker melts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness and melt the cheese again. Avoid microwaving to keep the crackers from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the cracker melts and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if baked cold from the fridge.

Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely. Swiss cheese is traditional, but you can use cheddar, provolone, or mozzarella depending on your preference. Just keep in mind the melting qualities and flavor profile.

Ham and Swiss Cracker Melts Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 76 reviews

These Ham and Swiss Cracker Melts are delightful bite-sized snacks perfect for parties or casual gatherings. Layers of savory deli ham and melted Swiss cheese are sandwiched between buttery Ritz crackers, then baked to golden perfection and topped with a flavorful butter-mustard glaze sprinkled with poppy seeds and minced onion.

• Author: lucas
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 48 mini sandwiches 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cracker Sandwiches

• 48 Ritz crackers
• 8 slices deli ham
• 8 slices Swiss cheese

Butter Glaze & Toppings

• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon dried minced onion

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the cracker melts until golden and melty.
2. Assemble Crackers: Arrange 24 Ritz crackers flat side down in a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the base layer for the sandwich bites.
3. Add Ham and Cheese: Tear the deli ham into small strips and place one piece atop each cracker. Then cut the Swiss cheese into 1-inch squares and place one on each piece of ham.
4. Top with Crackers: Place another Ritz cracker on top of each ham and cheese stack to create mini sandwich melts.
5. Prepare the Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Stir until fully blended.
6. Apply Glaze: Pour the butter mixture evenly over the tops of the assembled cracker sandwiches, ensuring each is coated for flavor.
7. Add Toppings: Sprinkle poppy seeds and dried minced onion evenly over the cracker tops for added texture and aroma.
8. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese melts and the tops turn golden brown.
9. Serve: Remove from oven and serve warm as a savory appetizer or snack that’s sure to please any crowd.

Notes

• Use good quality Swiss cheese and deli ham for the best flavor.
• You can substitute Dijon mustard with spicy brown mustard for a different kick.
• Serve immediately to enjoy the melted cheese at its best texture.
• These can be made ahead and baked just before serving.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers.

Keywords: Ham and Swiss Cracker Melts, appetizer recipe, party snacks, easy baked snacks, savory crackers