Garlic Ritz Snacks are the ultimate savory treat that’s perfect for snacking or as an easy appetizer at any gathering. These crispy, cheesy, and garlicky bites combine the classic crunch of Ritz Bits with the irresistible flavors of garlic, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Coated in a buttery mixture and finished with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, these snacks are impossible to stop eating once you start. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching the big game, or just looking for a quick and tasty snack, Garlic Ritz Snacks are sure to be a hit!

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a snack that’s packed with flavor and crunch. The Ritz Bits, known for their light and buttery texture, absorb the garlic butter mixture, making every bite burst with flavor. The addition of Parmesan adds a savory, cheesy kick that elevates the entire snack. These bites are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and only a few minutes to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy – This recipe requires minimal prep and only a few ingredients, making it perfect for last-minute snacking.
Irresistibly Flavorful – The combination of garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan makes these snacks bursting with flavor.
Perfectly Crunchy – Ritz Bits are already delicious on their own, and this recipe makes them even more addicting with a crispy, buttery coating.
Customizable – You can easily adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences, making these snacks as garlicky or cheesy as you like.
Great for Any Occasion – Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for an afternoon snack, or prepping a movie night treat, these Garlic Ritz Snacks are versatile and loved by everyone.

Ingredients

Cheese Ritz Bits (2 boxes, 8.8 oz each)
Melted butter
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Italian seasoning
Grated Parmesan cheese

Variations

Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a little heat to balance out the richness.
Cheese Lovers: Sprinkle in extra Parmesan cheese or even try adding cheddar or mozzarella for a cheesier bite.
Herb Variation: Swap the Italian seasoning for a combination of fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary for a more fragrant version.
Nutty Twist: Add a handful of chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, for extra texture and flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free Ritz Bits or a similar gluten-free cracker as a substitute.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the mixture is well blended.

Step 3

Add the Cheese Ritz Bits to the bowl and toss them in the garlic butter mixture, ensuring that all the crackers are evenly coated.

Step 4

Spread the coated Ritz Bits in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 5

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the Ritz Bits.

Step 6

Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the Ritz Bits are golden brown and crispy.

Step 7

Remove from the oven and allow the snacks to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the Ritz Bits as they bake to avoid burning them. Once they’re golden brown and crispy, they’re done!
Coat Evenly: Make sure to toss the Ritz Bits thoroughly in the butter mixture to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
Let Cool Before Storing: Let the snacks cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to keep them crispy.

How to Serve

Serve these Garlic Ritz Snacks as a party appetizer or a game-day snack.
Pair them with a creamy dip, like ranch or garlic aioli, for an extra layer of flavor.
Enjoy them on their own with a cold drink or alongside your favorite cheese platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Garlic Ritz Snacks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They are best eaten fresh but will stay crispy for a short period if stored properly.

Freezing

While these snacks are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them for up to 1 month. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container or a resealable bag to prevent them from absorbing moisture.

Reheating

To reheat, simply place the snacks in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes to regain their crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular Ritz crackers instead of Ritz Bits?

Yes, you can use regular Ritz crackers, but Ritz Bits work better for this recipe as they are bite-sized and hold the coating well.

2. How do I make these spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the butter mixture for a spicy kick.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! You can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or even a combination for a different flavor.

4. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

5. Can I add more seasoning to the mix?

Absolutely! Feel free to add extra garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil for more flavor.

6. How long do these snacks stay fresh?

They stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. However, they are best eaten the same day for optimal crunch.

7. Can I make these snacks without butter?

If you prefer, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative for a different flavor profile.

8. Are these snacks gluten-free?

No, Ritz Bits are not gluten-free, but you can substitute them with gluten-free crackers if needed.

9. Can I bake these in a toaster oven?

Yes, you can use a toaster oven to bake these snacks if you don’t have a regular oven. Just be sure to monitor them closely as toaster ovens tend to cook faster.

10. Can I store these in the fridge?

It’s best to store them at room temperature, as refrigeration can make them lose their crispness.

Conclusion

Garlic Ritz Snacks are an easy-to-make, incredibly flavorful treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your snack rotation. With their perfect blend of garlic, buttery goodness, and crispy texture, they’re ideal for sharing at parties, enjoying during movie nights, or just satisfying your craving for a savory snack. The Parmesan cheese adds the perfect finishing touch, making these bites both irresistible and addicting. Give them a try and enjoy this simple, delicious snack!