Perfect for family movie nights or any casual gathering, these cheesy, garlic-flavored Ritz Bits are incredibly easy to make. With a crunchy texture and savory seasoning, they’ll quickly become a household favorite. Plus, they take less than 20 minutes from start to finish!
Ingredients:
- 2 (8.8 oz) boxes cheese Ritz Bits: These mini cheese crackers will be the base. The cheese inside adds a rich flavor that complements the garlic seasoning.
- 3/4 cup butter, melted: Butter helps to coat the crackers evenly, adding richness and helping the seasoning stick.
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder: For that classic garlic bread flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: This adds a mild sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A mix of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme to add an aromatic element to the crackers.
- 1 1/2 cups grated parmesan cheese: Parmesan melts over the crackers, giving them a crispy, cheesy coating. You can also experiment with other hard cheeses like Romano or Asiago for different flavor profiles.
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare the Crackers: Pour both boxes of cheese Ritz Bits into a large mixing bowl. Set the bowl aside for now.
- Make the Garlic Butter: In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
- Coat the Crackers: Pour the seasoned butter mixture over the crackers in the large mixing bowl. Toss the crackers gently to ensure every piece is evenly coated in the garlic butter.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the top of the crackers. Toss again to distribute the cheese evenly. Make sure all the crackers are coated for a perfectly cheesy flavor.
- Bake: Spread the crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. This will ensure they bake evenly and get nice and crispy. Bake for 7-9 minutes or until the crackers are golden brown and the cheese has melted and crisped up slightly.
- Cool & Store: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the crackers to cool completely. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight bag or container to keep them fresh and crunchy.
Tips & Variations:
- Add a kick: For a spicier version, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the butter mixture.
- Try different cheeses: Swap out parmesan for other grated cheeses like cheddar, Romano, or Asiago for a different flavor.
- Herb boost: Add extra fresh herbs like finely chopped parsley or basil for a pop of fresh flavor after baking.
- Sweet & savory twist: For a unique flavor, try adding a dash of honey or brown sugar to the butter mixture before tossing the crackers. It adds a subtle sweetness that pairs nicely with the garlic and cheese.
These Garlic Bread Ritz Bits are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re making them for family movie night, game day, or just as a fun snack, they’re sure to be a hit. You can store them for up to a week in an airtight container, making them a great make-ahead option as well!
Enjoy!