Garlic Bread Ritz Bits

Garlic Bread Ritz Bits are the perfect bite-sized snack that delivers all the flavor of garlic bread in a portable, crispy treat. Imagine crunchy Ritz crackers with a buttery garlic flavor that’s ideal for snacking on the go, sharing at parties, or serving as a tasty appetizer. These savory little bites combine the irresistible taste of garlic bread with the convenience of Ritz Bits crackers, making them an instant favorite for anyone who loves bold, cheesy, and garlicky flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick party snack, a fun addition to a charcuterie board, or a way to upgrade your usual crackers, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 1 box of Ritz Bits crackers (cheese-filled)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp dried parsley
• 1/4 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation:

Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to make cleanup easier.

Step 2:
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Once melted, add the olive oil, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried parsley, and salt. Stir everything together and cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.

Step 3:
Place the Ritz Bits crackers in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture over the crackers, making sure to coat them evenly. Gently toss the crackers with a spatula until they’re well coated with the garlic butter mixture.

Step 4:
Spread the coated crackers out evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the crackers.

Step 5:
Bake the crackers in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they become golden brown and crispy. Be sure to keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.

Step 6:
Once baked, remove the crackers from the oven and let them cool slightly. Sprinkle the fresh parsley over the top for an added burst of flavor and color.

Step 7:
Transfer the garlic bread Ritz Bits to a serving bowl or platter and enjoy immediately. They can also be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days, although they are best served fresh.

Variation:

• Cheesy Ranch Garlic Bread Ritz Bits: Add 1 tbsp of ranch seasoning mix to the butter mixture and toss the crackers with an additional 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy ranch twist.
• Spicy Garlic Bread Ritz Bits: For a bit of heat, add 1/4 tsp of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture before tossing with the crackers.
• Herb and Lemon Ritz Bits: Add 1 tsp of lemon zest to the butter mixture along with fresh rosemary or thyme for a citrusy herbal variation that brightens up the flavors.

Cooking Note:

• Use Ritz Bits with cheese filling for the best results, as the cheesy filling enhances the garlic flavor.
• Don’t overbake the crackers; they should be just golden brown and crispy, not too dark.
• Minced fresh garlic gives the most robust flavor, but garlic powder works well if you prefer a milder taste or don’t have fresh garlic on hand.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve these Garlic Bread Ritz Bits as an appetizer for a party or game day spread.
• Pair them with a dipping sauce like marinara, ranch, or aioli for an extra layer of flavor.
• These make a great crunchy addition to a charcuterie board or snack platter alongside cheeses, meats, and pickles.

Tips:

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the garlic butter mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Just reheat it slightly before tossing with the crackers.
• Storage: Store any leftover Garlic Bread Ritz Bits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Re-crisp them in the oven for a few minutes if needed.
• Extra Crispy: If you like your Ritz Bits extra crispy, bake them for an additional 2-3 minutes, but keep a close watch to avoid burning.

Prep Time:

• 10 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 12 minutes

Total Time:

• 22 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Protein: 4 g
• Sodium: 340 mg

FAQs:

1. Can I use regular Ritz crackers instead of Ritz Bits?
Yes, you can use regular Ritz crackers if you prefer. The flavor will be the same, but you won’t have the cheese-filled center that the Ritz Bits provide.

2. How long will these Ritz Bits stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container, Garlic Bread Ritz Bits will stay fresh for up to 3 days. However, they are best eaten fresh out of the oven when they’re at their crispiest.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free Ritz-style crackers. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

4. Can I make these in the microwave?
No, this recipe is best baked in the oven to achieve that crispy texture. Microwaving may result in soggy crackers rather than the desired crunchy texture.

5. What other seasonings can I add to the garlic butter?
Feel free to experiment with flavors like smoked paprika, rosemary, or even a little bit of truffle oil for an upscale twist on this classic snack.

Conclusion:

Garlic Bread Ritz Bits are a deliciously addictive snack that combines the bold flavors of garlic bread with the convenience and crunch of Ritz crackers. Whether you’re serving these at a party or enjoying them as a midday treat, their buttery garlic goodness is sure to be a hit with everyone. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can elevate ordinary crackers into a gourmet snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, with endless possibilities for customization, this recipe is as versatile as it is tasty, allowing you to adjust the flavors to suit your personal taste preferences.

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