Garlic Bread Ritz Bits Delight

This garlic bread Ritz Bits recipe transforms ordinary cheese crackers into an addictive snack that captures all the flavors of garlic bread in bite-sized form. The buttery, garlicky coating with Italian herbs creates the perfect balance of flavors that will have everyone reaching for more.

I first made these for a last-minute game night when I realized I had nothing to serve my guests. They were such a hit that people actually ignored the main dishes I prepared later. Now they're requested at every gathering I host.

Ingredients

• 1 box of Ritz Bits crackers: preferably cheese filled for that extra layer of flavor
• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter: allows you to control the salt level
• 2–3 cloves of garlic: minced, fresh garlic provides that authentic garlic bread flavor
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder: reinforces the garlic flavor without overwhelming
• 1 teaspoon of dried parsley: adds color and a mild herbal note
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano: brings that classic Italian flavor profile
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil: adds sweetness and complexity
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt: enhances all the flavors
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper: adds subtle heat
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese: use freshly grated for best flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350°F and allow it to fully preheat while you prepare the crackers. This ensures even baking from the moment the crackers go in. A properly preheated oven is crucial for achieving that perfect crispness without burning.

Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture:

Melt butter slowly over medium heat to prevent it from browning. Once completely melted, add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes. Watch carefully as garlic can burn quickly and become bitter. The aroma will tell you when it’s perfectly infused.

Mix the Seasonings:

Combine garlic powder, dried parsley, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Mixing the dry ingredients separately ensures they distribute evenly throughout the crackers later. Each bite will have a consistent flavor profile when you take this extra step.

Coat the Ritz Bits:

Place crackers in a large mixing bowl with plenty of room for tossing. Pour the warm garlic butter over them and toss gently with a rubber spatula to avoid breaking the delicate crackers. The butter should coat each piece evenly. Add the seasoning mixture gradually while continuing to toss until all crackers are well coated.

Bake:

Spread the coated crackers in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding as this will prevent proper crisping. Bake for 10–15 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning. The crackers should become slightly darker and develop a wonderful toasty aroma.

Add Parmesan Cheese:

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the crackers immediately after removing from the oven. The residual heat will slightly melt the cheese, helping it adhere to the crackers. Gently toss to distribute the cheese evenly.

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The minced garlic is truly the star ingredient here. One evening when I was making these for my daughter’s birthday party, I doubled the garlic on a whim. The intensity of flavor was incredible, and several guests asked me for the recipe before leaving. It’s one of those happy accidents that becomes tradition.

Make Ahead and Storage

These garlic bread Ritz Bits can be prepared up to three days in advance, making them perfect for party planning. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They actually improve with a day of rest as the flavors continue to meld together beautifully. If you notice they’ve lost some crispness, you can refresh them with a quick 5-minute reheat in a 300°F oven.

Perfect Pairings

These herbaceous, garlicky crackers pair wonderfully with a variety of dips and spreads. Try serving them alongside marinara sauce for dipping, or with a creamy spinach dip for a complete appetizer experience. They also make a fantastic accompaniment to soups and stews, replacing traditional croutons with more flavor and texture. For an elevated charcuterie board, scatter these among your meats and cheeses.

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Variations to Try

The beauty of this recipe is how customizable it is to your taste preferences. For a spicy version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix. Cheese lovers can experiment with different cheese varieties like cheddar or asiago instead of Parmesan. For a Mediterranean twist, include a teaspoon of dried rosemary and swap the Parmesan for crumbled feta added after baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use plain Ritz Bits instead of cheese-filled ones?

Yes, you can use plain Ritz Bits. The garlic butter and seasonings will still add plenty of flavor. Cheese-filled, however, provides an extra layer of richness.

→ Can I substitute fresh garlic with garlic powder?

While fresh garlic adds more aromatic depth, you can use garlic powder as a substitute. Adjust the quantity to taste, starting with 1/2 teaspoon.

→ What’s the best way to store leftover snacks?

Store the cooled snacks in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and crispy for up to 3-4 days.

→ What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute it with grated Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a similar flavor.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this dish vegan, swap the butter with a plant-based alternative and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese option.

→ Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried ones?

Fresh herbs can be used for more vibrant flavors. Use three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to the dried herbs called for in the recipe.