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.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

Instructions

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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