Garlic Bread Ritz Bits Recipe

November 2, 2024September 30, 2024 by Hannah

Looking for a quick, savory snack that packs a punch of flavor? These Garlic Bread Ritz Bits are your new best friend! They’re buttery, cheesy, and seasoned to perfection with garlic and Italian herbs. These little bites are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—whether you’re munching on them during a movie or serving them up as a party snack. My family devours these in no time, and honestly, I don’t blame them!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: You’ll have these ready in under 20 minutes.
Packed with Flavor: Butter, garlic, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning—what more could you ask for?
Perfect Snack: Great for parties, road trips, or just when you’re craving something cheesy and crunchy.

Ingredients

Cheese Ritz Bits: 2 (8.8 oz) boxes for that cheesy, crunchy base.
Butter: ¾ cup melted to coat the crackers and add rich flavor.
Garlic Powder: 2 teaspoons for that irresistible garlic goodness.
Onion Powder: ½ teaspoon to round out the savory flavors.
Italian Seasoning: 1 ½ teaspoons to give that herby, garlicky bread taste.
Parmesan Cheese: 1 ½ cups grated to add salty, cheesy perfection.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Extra Cheesy: Mix in some shredded cheddar along with the Parmesan for an even cheesier bite.
Herb Swap: If you want to switch things up, try using a mix of basil and oregano instead of Italian seasoning.

How to Make the Recipe

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will make cleanup a breeze!

2. Prepare the Crackers

Pour the Ritz Bits crackers into a large mixing bowl and set them aside while you prepare the butter mixture.

3. Make the Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, melt the butter and whisk in the garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. This buttery, garlicky mixture is where all the magic happens. Pour it over the crackers and toss gently to coat them evenly.

4. Add Parmesan Cheese

Once the crackers are coated in the butter mixture, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and toss again until the cheese is evenly distributed.

5. Bake

Spread the crackers in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 7-9 minutes, or until they turn a golden, delicious color. The kitchen will smell amazing!

6. Cool and Store

Let the crackers cool completely before storing them in an airtight bag or container. This will keep them nice and crispy for snacking later!

How to Serve

Snack Time: Serve these crackers in a big bowl for movie nights or game day gatherings.
With Soup: Pair them with a bowl of tomato soup for a fun twist on the classic garlic bread and soup combo.
On-the-Go: These are great to pack in lunches or take on road trips for a tasty snack.

Make Ahead

Fridge: While these crackers are best served fresh, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Just make sure they’re fully cooled before storing.
Freezer: You can freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and give them a quick reheat in the oven to bring back the crunch.

FAQs

Can I use regular Ritz crackers instead of Ritz Bits?
Sure! You can break regular Ritz crackers into smaller pieces and follow the same steps. You might need to adjust the seasoning amounts slightly.

Do I have to use Parmesan cheese?
If you’re not a fan of Parmesan, you can substitute it with Romano or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.

How do I keep the crackers from getting soggy?
Make sure the crackers cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. This will help maintain their crispiness.

These Garlic Bread Ritz Bits are a delicious, cheesy, and crunchy snack that will quickly become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them on a lazy afternoon, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy!