Description
This Garlic Bread Ritz recipe transforms classic cheese-filled Ritz Bits crackers into a flavorful, buttery snack with garlic, Italian seasoning, and parmesan cheese. Baked until golden and crispy, these seasoned crackers are perfect for parties, snack time, or as a tasty appetizer.
Ingredients
Crackers
- 2 boxes cheese Ritz Bits (8.8 oz each)
Seasoning Mixture
- ¾ cup butter (melted)
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ⅔ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Finely chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two 9x13-inch rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper, or alternatively, use one extra-large sheet pan lined with parchment.
- Prepare Crackers: If any Ritz Bits have separated, gently press them back into sandwiches to keep the cheese tucked safely inside, preventing it from burning during baking. Pour all the crackers into a large mixing bowl.
- Mix Seasoning: In a medium spouted measuring cup or small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and onion powder until well combined.
- Coat Crackers: Pour the seasoned butter mixture over the crackers in the mixing bowl, then toss thoroughly to evenly coat all the crackers with the buttery seasoning.
- Add Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the buttered crackers, then toss again to mix the cheese evenly throughout the batch.
- Arrange Crackers: Divide the coated crackers evenly between the prepared baking sheets and spread them out in a single layer. It's okay if some crackers overlap slightly.
- Bake: Place the trays in the preheated oven and bake for 7 to 9 minutes, or until the crackers turn a beautiful golden brown color.
- Garnish: Remove the crackers from the oven and sprinkle with a little fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Cool: Allow the crackers to cool completely on the baking sheets. This cooling step helps them crisp up fully for the perfect crunchy texture.
Notes
- Make sure to press any separated Ritz Bits back together to prevent cheese from burning during baking.
- You can substitute fresh garlic finely minced instead of garlic powder for a stronger garlic flavor if desired.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Store leftover garlic bread Ritz crackers in an airtight container to maintain crispiness.
- Cooling completely is important as the crackers firm up and crisp once out of the oven.