Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches Recipe

Introduction

Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches are a delightful and easy appetizer perfect for any gathering. Combining savory ham, melted cheese, and a flavorful butter glaze, these bite-sized treats are sure to please a crowd.

Ingredients

• 48 Ritz crackers (about 2 sleeves)
• 12 slices deli ham (cut into quarters)
• 6 slices cheddar or Swiss cheese (cut into quarters)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for a sweet glaze)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Arrange half of the Ritz crackers on the baking sheet, placing them salted side down.
3. Step 3: Add a small piece of ham and a quarter slice of cheese on top of each cracker.
4. Step 4: Top each with another Ritz cracker, salted side up, to form little sandwiches.
5. Step 5: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, garlic powder, and honey or brown sugar if using.
6. Step 6: Brush the tops of each sandwich generously with the butter mixture.
7. Step 7: Bake for 7 to 9 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the tops turn golden brown.
8. Step 8: Let the sandwiches cool for 2 to 3 minutes before serving. They are best enjoyed warm.

Tips & Variations

• Try using different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for a flavor twist.
• Adding a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or chives on top adds a fresh note.
• For a spicier bite, mix a little hot sauce into the butter glaze.
• Using honey instead of brown sugar in the glaze adds a subtle floral sweetness.
• To make these sandwiches vegetarian, swap ham for thinly sliced grilled vegetables or roasted red pepper.

Storage

Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving as the crackers may become soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare these sandwiches ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the sandwiches a few hours before baking. Keep them covered in the refrigerator and add the butter glaze just before baking.

Can I use different crackers instead of Ritz?

While Ritz crackers are ideal for their buttery flavor and texture, you can experiment with other mild, buttery crackers. Just keep in mind the thickness and saltiness may affect the final taste and texture.

Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 62 reviews

Delicious and easy-to-make Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches featuring layers of ham and cheese between buttery Ritz crackers, baked to golden perfection and topped with a flavorful glaze. Perfect bite-sized appetizers for parties, game days, or casual gatherings.

• Author: lucas
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 18 minutes
• Yield: 48 mini sandwiches 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Sandwich Components

• 48 Ritz crackers (about 2 sleeves)
• 12 slices deli ham (cut into quarters)
• 6 slices cheddar or Swiss cheese (cut into quarters)

Glaze

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for a sweet glaze)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
2. Assemble the sandwiches: Place half of the Ritz crackers, with the salted side facing down, evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Add a small square of ham and a quarter piece of cheese onto each cracker.
3. Top the sandwiches: Place another Ritz cracker on top of each ham and cheese layer, with the salted side facing up, to form mini sandwich stacks.
4. Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds (if using), garlic powder, and honey or brown sugar (if using) to create a flavorful glaze.
5. Brush the glaze: Generously brush the tops of each sandwich with the butter mixture, ensuring even coverage to enhance flavor and encourage browning.
6. Bake the sandwiches: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 7 to 9 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the tops of the crackers turn a golden, crispy color.
7. Serve warm: Remove the sandwiches from the oven and allow them to cool for 2 to 3 minutes before serving. These sandwiches are best enjoyed warm and make a fantastic appetizer for parties or game day snacks.

Notes

• Use your choice of cheddar or Swiss cheese based on preference.
• The glaze can be made sweeter or more savory by adjusting the amount of honey or brown sugar.
• Poppy seeds add a nice crunch and visual appeal but are optional.
• These sandwiches are best served warm but can be prepared ahead and reheated briefly before serving.
• Substitute deli ham with turkey or other deli meats to vary flavors.

Keywords: Ritz cracker sandwiches, party appetizers, bite-sized sandwiches, ham and cheese bites, easy party snacks, baked crackers, game day food