Ham and Swiss Cracker Melts Recipe

These Ham and Swiss Cracker Melts are my secret weapon when I need a fast, easy snack or appetizer that people will rave about. Imagine buttery crackers sandwiching savory ham and gooey melted Swiss cheese, all topped with a flavorful butter mixture—what’s not to love? I brought these to a party once, and let’s just say, I didn’t bring any home. They were gone in minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Perfect for when you need something fast but impressive.
• Savory & Cheesy: Swiss cheese, ham, and buttery crackers are a flavor match made in heaven.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for parties, game nights, or even a fun snack for the kids.

Ingredients

• Ritz Crackers: 48 buttery crackers to create the perfect bite-sized sandwiches.
• Deli Ham: 8 slices, torn into small pieces to layer on the crackers.
• Swiss Cheese: 8 slices, cut into 1-inch pieces to melt perfectly over the ham.
• Butter: 4 tablespoons, melted for brushing over the cracker sandwiches.
• Dijon Mustard: 2 teaspoons for a tangy kick in the butter mixture.
• Worcestershire Sauce: 1 teaspoon for that deep, savory flavor.
• Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon to add a little something extra to the flavor.
• Poppy Seeds: 1 teaspoon for a fun crunch on top.
• Dried Minced Onion: ½ teaspoon to give it that extra pop of flavor.

Variations

• Change Up the Cheese: Swap the Swiss for cheddar, provolone, or whatever cheese you love.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter mixture for a little heat.
• Turkey & Cheddar: Not into ham and Swiss? Try turkey and cheddar instead for a different take.

How to Make the Recipe

1. Preheat the Oven

Get that oven heated to 350°F (175°C). You’ll want it nice and hot for these melts to turn golden and delicious.

2. Assemble the Crackers

Place half of your Ritz crackers, flat side down, in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Tear the deli ham into small strips and place one piece on each cracker. Top with a 1-inch square of Swiss cheese, then sandwich it with another Ritz cracker.

3. Prepare the Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. This mixture is what’s going to make your cracker melts extra tasty, so don’t skimp!

4. Pour the Butter Mixture

Drizzle the butter mixture evenly over the cracker sandwiches. Make sure every cracker gets a nice coating—it’s what gives them that golden, flavorful crust.

5. Add the Toppings

Sprinkle the poppy seeds and dried minced onion over the top. These little toppings take the crackers to the next level, adding texture and flavor.

6. Bake

Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the tops of the crackers are golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!

7. Serve

Serve these Ham and Swiss Cracker Melts warm and watch them disappear. They’re perfect on their own, or you can serve them with a side of mustard for dipping.

How to Serve

• As a Snack or Appetizer: These melts are great for parties, potlucks, or game nights. They’re easy to eat and super satisfying.
• With Soup: Pair them with tomato soup or a creamy potato soup for a cozy, comforting meal.
• Quick Lunch: If you need a fast and easy lunch, these cracker melts are a fun and delicious option.

Make Ahead

• Fridge: You can assemble the cracker sandwiches ahead of time and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just bake when you’re ready to serve.
• Freezer: You can also freeze the assembled sandwiches before baking. Bake them straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cracker?
Yes! Any buttery cracker will work well here, but Ritz crackers are perfect for their flavor and texture.

Do I have to use Swiss cheese?
Not at all! Feel free to swap in cheddar, provolone, or your favorite cheese.

How do I keep the crackers from getting soggy?
Make sure you don’t overdo it on the butter mixture. A light coating is all you need to get that golden, crispy top without making the crackers soggy.

These Ham and Swiss Cracker Melts are the ultimate quick snack or party appetizer. They’re cheesy, savory, and absolutely delicious. Once you make these, I guarantee they’ll become a regular in your snack rotation. Enjoy!

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