Crispy Garlic Bread Treats

This garlic bread Ritz bits recipe transforms ordinary crackers into an addictive snack that captures all the flavors of classic Italian garlic bread without the fuss. My family begs for these whenever we have movie nights, and they disappear faster than I can make them.

I first made these during a snowstorm when we couldn't get to the store for snacks. What started as a desperate pantry raid has become our most requested treat when friends come over. Even my picky nephew devours these by the handful.

Ingredients

• Ritz crackers: Choose whole, unbroken crackers for the best presentation and even cooking
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated works best for maximum flavor and proper melting
• Unsalted butter: The foundation of flavor that helps everything stick to the crackers
• Garlic powder: Provides consistent garlic flavor throughout without burning like fresh garlic
• Dried parsley: Adds classic Italian flavor and pretty flecks of green
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors without making the crackers too salty
• Black pepper: Provides a subtle warmth and complexity to the flavor profile

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Set your oven to 350°F and position a rack in the middle. This moderate temperature ensures the crackers get crispy without burning the butter or cheese. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Create Flavor Mixture:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper until thoroughly combined. Make sure there are no clumps of garlic powder which could create bitter pockets of flavor.

Prepare Butter Coating:

Melt butter in a microwave or small saucepan until completely liquid but not sizzling hot. Butter that is too hot can make the crackers soggy or start cooking the garlic powder before it reaches the oven.

Coat The Crackers:

Add Ritz crackers to a large bowl. Pour melted butter over them and gently toss using a rubber spatula or your hands until each cracker is glistening with butter. Be gentle to avoid breaking the delicate crackers.

Apply Seasoning Mix:

Sprinkle the Parmesan seasoning mixture over the buttered crackers. Carefully fold and toss until every cracker is evenly coated. The butter will help the seasonings stick to the crackers.

Arrange For Baking:

Spread the seasoned crackers in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding or stacking which can lead to uneven cooking and soggy crackers. Each cracker should have space around it.

Bake To Perfection:

Bake for 10-12 minutes, checking at the 8-minute mark. The crackers should turn golden brown, and the cheese should be melted and slightly crisp. Your kitchen will fill with an irresistible garlic bread aroma.

Cool Before Serving:

Allow the crackers to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This cooling period is crucial as it allows them to crisp up further and prevents burned mouths from impatient snackers.

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My absolute favorite moment with these crackers was when my Italian grandmother tried them and asked for the recipe. Coming from a woman who makes everything from scratch and rarely compliments convenience foods, this was the ultimate validation that these humble Ritz bits truly capture the essence of garlic bread.

Make Ahead and Storage

These garlic Ritz bits actually improve in flavor when made a day ahead. The garlic and herbs have time to fully infuse into the crackers, creating an even more intense flavor profile. Just be sure to store them properly to maintain their addictive crunch.

For best results, cool the crackers completely before storing in an airtight container. They will maintain their perfect texture for up to 5 days at room temperature. If you notice they have lost some crispness, simply pop them back in a 300°F oven for 3-5 minutes to refresh.

Delicious Variations

While the classic recipe is perfect on its own, there are countless ways to customize these crackers to match your meal or mood. My personal favorite variation is adding 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

For an herb garden version, replace the dried parsley with a mixture of dried basil, oregano, and thyme. This variation pairs beautifully with Italian dishes and vegetable soups.

For a cheesier experience, try adding 2 tablespoons of finely grated cheddar or smoked gouda along with the Parmesan. The different cheese flavors create wonderful complexity that elevates these simple crackers to gourmet status.

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Perfect Pairings

These garlic bread Ritz bits shine as a standalone snack, but they truly excel when paired with the right companions. Try serving them alongside a creamy tomato soup where they can replace traditional croutons with more flavor impact.

They also make an excellent addition to a charcuterie board, providing a savory counterpoint to sweet jams and fresh fruits. My guests always hover around this section of the board first, so I typically make a double batch.

For a complete appetizer spread, serve these crackers with spinach artichoke dip, marinated olives, and a simple bruschetta mixture. The flavors complement each other beautifully and provide something for everyone at your gathering.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I ensure the crackers stay crispy after baking?

Store them in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness. Reheat in a low-temperature oven if needed to restore the crunch.

→ What’s a good substitute for dried parsley?

You can use fresh parsley for a brighter flavor or even dried basil or oregano for a different herbal twist.

→ Can I make this snack spicier?

Yes, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix will give the crackers a kick of heat.

→ What cheese works best besides Parmesan?

Cheddar, Romano, or Asiago are great options to experiment with and can add different layers of flavor.

→ How do I serve these crackers for a party?

Arrange them on a platter with dips like marinara or a creamy garlic spread for an easy and stylish finger food option.

→ Can I use flavored Ritz crackers?

Yes, flavored Ritz crackers, like cheddar or garlic, can enhance the overall taste. Adjust seasoning accordingly to balance the flavors.