Say hello to your new favorite snack obsession: Garlic Bread Ritz Bits! Imagine those childhood cheese-filled crackers, but transformed into an irresistibly garlicky, buttery, savory sensation with hints of Parmesan and herbs. Whether you’re looking for the perfect party appetizer, a fun lunchbox surprise, or a late-night treat to satisfy savory cravings, these Garlic Bread Ritz Bits deliver pure comfort and flavor in every crunchy bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps it super simple, but every ingredient plays an important role in bringing those classic garlic bread flavors to life! Each component boosts taste or texture, turning humble Ritz Bits into something truly special.
- Ritz Bits Cheese Sandwiches: The cheesy, buttery base that soaks up all the flavorful toppings.
- Unsalted Butter (melted): Adds a rich, buttery coating for the seasonings to cling to.
- Garlic Powder: The must-have seasoning for that signature aromatic garlic bread flavor.
- Onion Powder: Layers in a subtle savory sweetness that rounds out the garlic beautifully.
- Dried Parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness reminiscent of classic garlic bread.
- Salt: Enhances every flavor and gives a little boost to the seasoning blend.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Brings cheesy, salty, umami depth and a bit of texture to every bite.
How to Make Garlic Bread Ritz Bits
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 250°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so cleanup is a breeze, and your Garlic Bread Ritz Bits won’t stick or burn.
Step 2: Coat the Crackers
Pour all the Ritz Bits into a large mixing bowl. In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, and salt. Drizzle the buttery mixture over the crackers. Gently toss (a rubber spatula works well!) to ensure every piece gets some love and flavor.
Step 3: Add Parmesan and Toss Again
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over your buttered crackers. Give it another gentle toss. This coats the Garlic Bread Ritz Bits with a savory, cheesy layer that crisps up perfectly in the oven.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Spread the seasoned crackers in an even layer on your prepared baking sheet. Slide them into the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring once about halfway through. The low heat helps all those flavors soak in and toast up without burning.
Step 5: Cool and Crunch
Let your Garlic Bread Ritz Bits cool completely so they get crisp and snackable. Once cooled, dig in immediately or transfer to an airtight container for later (if you can resist the temptation).
How to Serve Garlic Bread Ritz Bits
Garnishes
For an extra burst of flavor and color, sprinkle your Garlic Bread Ritz Bits with a little more dried parsley or a fresh grating of Parmesan right before serving. If you’re feeling daring, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of heat.
Side Dishes
These crackers are a total crowd-pleaser on their own, but they also pair brilliantly with creamy dips like ranch, marinara sauce, or whipped ricotta. Serve alongside soups or salads for a playful crouton alternative!
Creative Ways to Present
Pile your Garlic Bread Ritz Bits into small bowls or paper cups for easy snacking at parties, use them as a crunchy salad topper, or add them to a snack mix with nuts and pretzels for a delicious twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Garlic Bread Ritz Bits as crisp as the day you made them, let them cool thoroughly and then transfer to an airtight container. They’ll stay snappy and delicious for up to a week — making them perfect for prepping ahead!
Freezing
While these crackers are at their best fresh, you can absolutely freeze them if needed. Seal tightly in a freezer-safe bag or container, and thaw at room temperature before serving for best results.
Reheating
If your Ritz Bits lose a little crunch, simply pop them on a baking sheet and warm in a 250°F oven for about 5 minutes. They’ll crisp right back up without losing their flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other cracker varieties instead of Ritz Bits?
Absolutely! While the cheesy center of Ritz Bits makes this snack extra special, you can use regular Ritz or another sandwich-style cracker and adjust the baking time as needed.
How spicy can I make Garlic Bread Ritz Bits?
Feel free to add a pinch (or more) of crushed red pepper flakes into the butter mixture for a gently spicy kick, or stir in some smoked paprika for a deeper, savory warmth.
Are Garlic Bread Ritz Bits vegetarian?
Yes! This recipe is completely vegetarian as written. Just be sure your Parmesan is vegetarian if that’s important to you, since traditional varieties sometimes contain animal rennet.
Can I make these in advance for a party?
Garlic Bread Ritz Bits are fantastic party snacks to make ahead! Just store them in an airtight container, and they’re as crisp and flavorful as the moment you baked them.
What’s the best way to transport for lunchboxes or gifts?
Let the crackers cool completely, then portion into snack bags or small jars. They travel well and make adorable edible gifts or lunchbox surprises for all ages.
Final Thoughts
If you love savory snacks with a cozy, garlicky twist, do yourself a favor and whip up a batch of Garlic Bread Ritz Bits. They’re fast, fun, and so wonderfully addictive—perfect for sharing (or not!). I can’t wait for you to try them and see just how irresistible these cheesy, crunchy little bites can be!
Print
Garlic Bread Ritz Bits Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Garlic Bread Ritz Bits are a delicious twist on the classic snack, featuring seasoned crackers with a garlicky, buttery flavor and a hint of Parmesan cheese. Perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or simply as a tasty snack.
Ingredients
Ritz Bits Cheese sandwiches:
1 (8.8-ounce)
Unsalted butter (melted):
1/4 cup
Garlic powder:
1 teaspoon
Onion powder:
1/2 teaspoon
Dried parsley:
1/2 teaspoon
Salt:
1/4 teaspoon
Grated Parmesan cheese:
2 tablespoons
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 250°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Ritz Bits: Pour the Ritz Bits into a large mixing bowl.
- Make the butter mixture: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, and salt. Pour over the Ritz Bits and stir to coat.
- Add Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the crackers and toss again.
- Bake: Spread the coated crackers on the baking sheet. Bake for 15–20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Cool and serve: Let the crackers cool completely before serving or storing.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Great for parties, lunchboxes, or as a snack mix add-in.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
