Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches

Why Make This Recipe

Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches are a fantastic choice for any gathering, big or small, because they are simple to prepare, delicious to eat, and can please a crowd. These little sandwiches pack a lot of flavor into tiny bites, making them a hit at parties, brunches, or even just a snack at home. They’re easy to customize, which means you can cater to your guests’ tastes while keeping the preparation straightforward. Plus, who can resist that delightful crunch of Ritz crackers combined with savory ham and cheese?

Not only do these sandwiches taste great, but they also look appealing when served on a platter. Their assembly is simple enough to involve children in the kitchen, making cooking a fun family affair. Whether you are preparing them for a holiday party, a game night, or just a casual get-together with friends, Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches offer a perfect mix of convenience and taste.

How to Make Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches

Making Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches is an easy process that requires minimal ingredients and basic kitchen tools. The preparation takes no time at all, and the oven does the work of cooking them to perfection for you. This step-by-step guide will walk you through how to create these delightful sandwiches that are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 24 Ritz Crackers
• 8 oz Ham (thinly sliced)
• 8 oz Swiss Cheese (thinly sliced)
• ¼ cup Melted Butter
• 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tbsp Poppy Seeds

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your Ritz Cracker sandwiches bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

2. Prepare the Base: Lay out 12 Ritz Crackers on a baking sheet. These will serve as the bottom layer for your sandwiches.

3. Add the Filling: On each Ritz cracker, place a slice of ham and then a slice of Swiss cheese. Make sure to cover the cracker evenly for the best flavor and a pleasing presentation.

4. Top with another Cracker: Take another Ritz Cracker and place it on top of the ham and cheese to form a sandwich. Press down gently to help the ingredients stick together.

5. Make the Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and poppy seeds. Mix everything well until you have a uniform consistency.

6. Brush the Sandwiches: Use a brush or spoon to apply the butter mixture on top of each sandwich. This step is essential because it adds flavor and helps the crackers get that nice golden color.

7. Bake: Place your baking sheet in the oven and bake the sandwiches for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them and remove them when the cheese is melted and the crackers are golden brown.

8. Cool and Serve: Once done, take the sandwiches out of the oven and let them cool briefly. Serving them warm is best, as this will ensure that the cheese is gooey and delicious.

How to Serve Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches

Serving Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches is as easy as making them. You can keep it simple by arranging the sandwiches on a pretty serving platter. For added flair, garnish the platter with fresh herbs or additional poppy seeds scattered around the sandwiches.

These sandwiches are best served warm, but they also taste delightful at room temperature. You can pair them with a variety of dips like honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli to give guests options to choose from. If you’re hosting a more formal event, consider adding a small toothpick to each sandwich to make them easier for guests to grab while mingling.

These sandwiches can also be part of a larger spread that includes fruits, vegetables, chips, and other bite-sized snacks. This variety will ensure everyone finds something they love!

How to Store Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches

If you have leftovers (which isn’t very common with these tasty bites!), storing them properly will keep them fresh. Let the sandwiches cool completely first, and then place them in an airtight container.

Store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can place them in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave as it may make the crackers soggy.

If you’re planning ahead and want to make these sandwiches in advance, consider assembling them without baking and wrapping them in plastic wrap. You can store them in the refrigerator and bake them fresh just before serving.

Tips to Make Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches

1. Use Different Meats: While ham and Swiss cheese go beautifully together, feel free to experiment with other deli meats such as turkey, roast beef, or even salami. You can also try different cheese varieties, such as cheddar or provolone.

2. Add Veggies: To add more flavor and nutrition, you can layer in some vegetables like sliced tomatoes, spinach, or even roasted red peppers. Just ensure that any added ingredients are not too moist, or they may make the crackers soggy.

3. Adjust the Seasoning: The butter mixture can be customized further to enhance the flavors. Adding Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper for heat, or a sprinkle of your favorite herbs can give a nice twist to the classic recipe.

4. Make Them Ahead of Time: You can assemble the sandwiches ahead of time and refrigerate them. Just bake them right before your guests arrive for warm, fresh snacks.

5. Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens can vary in temperature, so keep an eye on your sandwiches as they bake. You want to catch them at the right moment when they’re golden and the cheese is bubbly.

Variation

Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches can easily be adjusted to suit various dietary preferences. Here are a few variations to consider:

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the ham and substitute it with roasted vegetables, hummus, or spinach dip. Pair it with a hearty cheese like feta or mozzarella to maintain richness.

• Spicy Version: Add jalapeño slices to the ham and cheese sandwiches for a spicy kick. Alternatively, use pepper jack cheese instead of Swiss.

• Breakfast Edition: Transform these into breakfast sandwiches by using cooked bacon or sausage and cheddar cheese. Add a hint of maple syrup to the butter mixture for a sweet and savory treat.

FAQs

Can I use different kinds of crackers instead of Ritz?

Yes, you can use other types of crackers. Whole grain crackers or even flavored varieties can give a nice twist to the sandwiches, although Ritz Crackers provide a unique buttery flavor and crunch that many people enjoy.

How long do these sandwiches take to prepare?

Overall, you can expect to spend about 20-30 minutes from start to finish, including both preparation and baking time.

Can I freeze Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches?

Freezing these sandwiches is not recommended due to the texture of the crackers. However, you can prepare them with a day or two’s notice and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

What can I serve with Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches?

These sandwiches pair well with a variety of dips like ranch dressing, spicy mustard, honey mustard, or even a fresh salsa. Fresh veggies, fruits, and chips can also complement the sandwiches nicely at a party.

Are there any low-carb options for this recipe?

Yes, if you’re looking for a low-carb version, consider using cheese crisps or slices of cucumber in place of the crackers. Replace the ham with turkey or chicken, and you’ll have a great low-carb alternative.

These Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches are a delightful treat that bring people together. Their simplicity and flavor can make any gathering special. Whether it’s a festive occasion or a casual get-together, these sandwiches are sure to be a popular choice!

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