Garlic Bread Ritz Bits Recipe

If ever there was a snack that could steal the show at any party or suddenly turn a quiet movie night into something special, it’s Garlic Bread Ritz Bits. These little beauties bring together everything we love about garlic bread—rich buttery flavor, zippy garlic, a touch of herby aroma—and wrap it around that familiar, cheesy crunch of Ritz Bits. You’d be amazed how easily these come together, yet they taste totally crave-worthy and addictive. Once you make them, it will be impossible to keep your hands off this irresistible bite-sized snack!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

You might not believe it, but big flavor doesn’t need a ton of complicated ingredients. Every element in this list brings something important to the table—whether it’s bold flavor, a hint of color, or perfect crunch. Here’s what you’ll need to create your batch of Garlic Bread Ritz Bits.

• Ritz Bits Cheese Sandwich Crackers: These are the star—tiny sandwich-style crackers filled with cheddar, ready to soak up all that garlicky goodness.
• Unsalted Butter (melted): The secret to rich, toasty, bakery-style flavor. Using unsalted lets you control the seasoning.
• Garlic Powder: A must for big time garlic bread flavor—use more if you like it extra garlicky!
• Dried Parsley: Adds a touch of color and a subtle herby note reminiscent of classic garlic bread.
• Onion Powder: Just a pinch deepens the buttery-savory flavor and keeps everyone guessing your secret.
• Salt: Balances out the flavors—just enough to amplify every tasty bite.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional): For a savory punch and a cheesy finish, sprinkle some on for extra richness.

How to Make Garlic Bread Ritz Bits

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet

First things first: preheat your oven to 250°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Don’t skip this step—the low oven temp gently toasts the seasoned crackers so they soak up flavor but don’t burn, and the parchment makes cleanup a total breeze.

Step 2: Mix Up the Herby Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, dried parsley, onion powder, and salt. Whisk everything together so the spices distribute evenly for every single Ritz Bit. If you want that classic pizzeria aroma, go ahead and stir in a little grated Parmesan too!

Step 3: Coat the Crackers

Place all your Ritz Bits in a large mixing bowl. Pour the seasoned butter you just made right over them, and gently toss everything together. You want every mini cheese sandwich to get a delicious coating, but be gentle—they’re soft little sandwiches, so treat them kindly.

Step 4: Bake to Golden, Toasty Perfection

Spread your coated crackers out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Give them a little space so they toast evenly. Slide them into the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, stirring them about halfway through so nothing sticks and every cracker has a chance to crisp up. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re lightly golden and the whole kitchen smells like garlic bread heaven.

Step 5: Cool & Enjoy

Let your Garlic Bread Ritz Bits cool completely on the baking sheet. As they cool, the flavor intensifies and they crisp up just right, creating that perfect crunchy, savory bite you can’t resist.

How to Serve Garlic Bread Ritz Bits

Garnishes

For an extra burst of flavor or a photogenic finish, try tossing the warm Ritz Bits with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a touch more grated Parmesan before serving. Even a light dusting of red pepper flakes can add a little kick!

Side Dishes

Garlic Bread Ritz Bits are outrageously good on their own, but they’re even better when served with something creamy to dunk them in—think a bowl of hot tomato soup, a cheesy dip, or a zesty ranch. They’re also the ultimate party sidekick for antipasto platters or alongside your favorite sandwiches.

Creative Ways to Present

Pile them high in a basket lined with a napkin for casual snacking, scoop them into fun paper cones for movie night, or fill tiny cups for a tidy, pass-around party vibe. Try serving them as a crave-able topping for salads or alongside game-day chili for a fun crunch!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Garlic Bread Ritz Bits have cooled, stash them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and satisfying for up to five days, making it easy to grab a handful anytime the craving strikes.

Freezing

While these snacks taste best fresh, you can freeze leftovers if you need. Place them in a freezer-safe bag with as much air pressed out as possible. Let them thaw at room temp and re-crisp in a low oven for a few minutes before serving.

Reheating

If your Garlic Bread Ritz Bits lose their crispness, just spread them on a baking sheet and warm them in a 250°F oven for 5-10 minutes. They’ll come right back to life with that crave-worthy crunch.

FAQs

Can I use other flavors of Ritz Bits?

Absolutely! While the cheese variety is classic for Garlic Bread Ritz Bits, the peanut butter ones are best for dessert swaps, but other savory flavors like pizza or bacon cheddar work beautifully for a fun twist.

Could I double the garlic for a stronger flavor?

Yes, and I highly recommend it if you’re a true garlic lover. Start with a little extra garlic powder in the butter mixture, taste, and adjust—it’s your snack, after all!

Can I make these ahead for a party?

Definitely. Garlic Bread Ritz Bits are the perfect make-ahead treat—they hold their crunch and flavor for several days, so you can prep them a day or two before your gathering and serve them up when it’s party time.

What if I want a healthier version?

You can experiment with using a little less butter or swapping in light butter. The crackers themselves are an indulgence, but small tweaks to the coating can help reduce fat if you’re aiming for a lighter bite.

Can kids help make Garlic Bread Ritz Bits?

Of course! Kids love measuring, mixing, and especially tossing the crackers in the butter mixture. This recipe is a fun, hands-on activity that even little helpers can join in on—just mind the hot oven part.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to bring the cozy, nostalgic flavor of classic garlic bread into a totally snackable, party-friendly form, you absolutely need to try making Garlic Bread Ritz Bits. It’s an easy treat packed with big flavor, and I promise your friends and family will keep reaching for more every time you set out a bowl. Happy snacking!

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