Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches Recipe

Introduction

Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches are a nostalgic and easy appetizer perfect for any gathering. These bite-sized treats combine savory ham and cheese between buttery crackers, all brushed with a flavorful glaze and baked to golden perfection.

Ingredients

• 48 Ritz crackers (about 2 sleeves)
• 12 slices deli ham (cut into quarters)
• 6 slices cheddar or Swiss cheese (cut into quarters)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for a sweet glaze)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Place half of the Ritz crackers, salted side down, on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Step 3: Add a small square of ham and a piece of cheese on each cracker.
4. Step 4: Top each with another Ritz cracker, salted side up, to form little sandwiches.
5. Step 5: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds (if using), garlic powder, and honey or brown sugar (if using) to make the glaze.
6. Step 6: Brush the tops of each sandwich generously with the butter mixture.
7. Step 7: Bake for 7–9 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the tops turn golden brown.
8. Step 8: Remove from the oven and let the sandwiches cool for 2–3 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm for best flavor.

Tips & Variations

• Try different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for a unique twist.
• Substitute turkey or roast beef for ham to suit your taste.
• Skip the honey or brown sugar for a savory-only glaze.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the glaze for a subtle smoky flavor.

Storage

Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in an oven or toaster oven to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as the crackers may become soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the sandwiches a few hours ahead and keep them covered in the fridge. Brush with the glaze and bake just before serving for the best results.

What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?

Butter crackers or saltine crackers can be used as a substitute, though the flavor and texture will vary slightly from the classic Ritz sandwich.

Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 72 reviews

• Author: Zoe
• Total Time: 19 minutes
• Yield: 48 mini sandwiches 1x

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Description

Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches are bite-sized, savory treats made with layers of deli ham, cheddar or Swiss cheese sandwiched between buttery Ritz crackers, then glazed and baked to golden perfection. These easy-to-make appetizers are perfect for parties, game days, or casual gatherings, offering a delicious combination of salty, cheesy, and slightly sweet flavors with a crispy texture.

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Ingredients

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Sandwiches

• 48 Ritz crackers (about 2 sleeves)
• 12 slices deli ham (cut into quarters)
• 6 slices cheddar or Swiss cheese (cut into quarters)

Glaze

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for a sweet glaze)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the sandwiches.
2. Assemble the sandwiches: Place half of the Ritz crackers onto the prepared baking sheet with the salted side facing down. Then add a small square of ham and a piece of cheese onto each cracker.
3. Top the sandwiches: Cover the ham and cheese with the remaining Ritz crackers, placing them with the salted side facing up, creating mini sandwich stacks.
4. Mix the glaze: In a small bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds (if using), garlic powder, and honey or brown sugar if you want a touch of sweetness to the glaze. Stir well to blend all ingredients.
5. Brush the glaze: Using a pastry brush, evenly coat the tops of each cracker sandwich with the butter glaze mixture to add flavor and help the crackers brown nicely.
6. Bake the sandwiches: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 7 to 9 minutes, or until the cheese melts slightly and the tops of the crackers turn golden brown and crispy.
7. Cool slightly and serve: Remove the sandwiches from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 2 to 3 minutes before serving. These warm sandwiches are perfect for sharing at parties or casual get-togethers.

Notes

• For a vegetarian version, substitute the ham with plant-based deli slices or thinly sliced roasted vegetables.
• Use different cheese varieties like mozzarella or pepper jack for distinct flavors.
• To make these ahead, assemble and glaze the sandwiches, then refrigerate and bake just before serving.
• Omitting honey or brown sugar will make the glaze savory without sweetness.
• If you don’t have Dijon mustard, yellow mustard can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will be milder.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 9 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Ritz cracker sandwiches, party appetizers, game day snacks, bite-sized sandwiches, easy party recipes, cheesy snacks, ham and cheese bites