Garlic Ritz Snacks

Introduction

Garlic Ritz Snacks are the perfect savory treat that will quickly become your go-to snack for any occasion. Imagine the buttery, crispy goodness of Ritz crackers, each one infused with the rich, bold taste of garlic and seasoned just right. These little bites are packed with flavor and have a satisfying crunch that makes them impossible to stop eating. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching the big game, or just enjoying a casual afternoon, these Garlic Ritz Snacks are sure to be the star of the show.

The first time I made these Garlic Ritz Snacks, I was surprised at how quickly they came together, yet the flavor was so big and satisfying. Tossing the crackers in melted butter and garlic seasoning felt like an easy but magical transformation. As they baked in the oven, my kitchen was filled with the mouthwatering aroma of garlic and buttery crackers, which only heightened the anticipation. When they came out of the oven, golden and crisp, I couldn’t wait to try them, and I was instantly hooked.

What I love most about these Garlic Ritz Snacks is their versatility. You can serve them as an appetizer at a party, bring them along to a picnic, or simply enjoy them as an everyday snack. They’re easy to customize by adding extra herbs or spices for a unique twist. No matter how you serve them, these Garlic Ritz Snacks are guaranteed to be a hit, leaving everyone coming back for more.

Perfect for:

• Snack time
• Game nights
• Parties and gatherings
• Movie nights
• Simple appetizers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Garlic Ritz Snacks will become your new go-to snack:

• Burst of Garlic Flavor: The garlic powder and butter blend perfectly, offering an addictive, savory flavor that complements the crispness of the Ritz crackers.
• Crispy and Crunchy: The crackers stay wonderfully crispy, making every bite satisfying and full of texture.
• Quick and Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and a simple preparation process, these snacks come together in minutes—perfect for last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile: Enjoy them on their own or serve alongside dips, soups, or salads. They’re a great addition to any spread.
• Great for Sharing: This recipe makes a large batch, so it’s ideal for sharing with family, friends, or guests at any event.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-180 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 2g, Carbs: 16g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

To make your Garlic Ritz Snacks, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers)
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Ingredient Highlights

• Ritz Crackers: The buttery, flaky texture of Ritz crackers is the base of this snack, offering a perfect crispy crunch.
• Garlic Powder: Adds the essential garlic flavor that makes these snacks so irresistible.
• Unsalted Butter: Provides richness and helps the seasonings stick to the crackers.
• Dried Parsley and Onion Powder: These add subtle herbaceous and savory notes, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Season to taste for the perfect balance of flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Garlic Ritz Snacks:

Prepare the Crackers:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Arrange the Crackers: Lay the Ritz crackers out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Arrange them in an even pattern, leaving a little space between each cracker.

Make the Garlic Butter Mixture:

3. Melt the Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in the microwave or on the stovetop until fully melted.
4. Mix the Seasonings: To the melted butter, add the garlic powder, dried parsley (if using), onion powder (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully combined.

Coat the Crackers:

5. Drizzle the Butter Mixture: Use a spoon or pastry brush to drizzle or lightly brush the garlic butter mixture over each Ritz cracker. Make sure each cracker is coated evenly with the mixture.
6. Toss for Even Coating (Optional): If you want the butter and seasonings to be fully distributed, you can place the crackers in a large bowl, pour the garlic butter mixture over them, and gently toss to coat evenly.

Bake the Crackers:

7. Bake the Crackers: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crackers are golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid burning.
8. Cool the Crackers: Once baked, remove the crackers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve

Garlic Ritz Snacks are perfect for serving in a variety of ways:

• As a Snack: Serve these crackers on their own for a savory snack everyone will love.
• With Dips: Pair with your favorite dips like ranch, guacamole, or cheese dip for a fun appetizer.
• Alongside Soups or Salads: These crackers make a great crunchy side dish with soups, stews, or salads.
• At Parties: Set them out at your next gathering as an easy and tasty snack that guests can grab and enjoy.
• As an Accompaniment to Drinks: Serve them with cocktails, wine, or beer for a casual yet delicious pairing.

Additional Tips

Here are some helpful tips to make sure your Garlic Ritz Snacks turn out perfectly:

• Use Fresh Butter: For the best flavor, use fresh unsalted butter. It will bring out the richness and enhance the garlic flavor.
• Adjust the Garlic: If you love garlic, feel free to add a little more garlic powder for an extra punch. You can also add fresh minced garlic for a stronger taste.
• Store Properly: Store leftover crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to keep them crispy.
• Double the Recipe: If you’re serving a crowd, it’s easy to double the recipe to ensure there’s enough for everyone.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the crackers as they bake to ensure they don’t burn. The golden brown color is a good indicator that they’re ready.

Recipe Variations

Here are 10 variations to try for Garlic Ritz Snacks:

• Cheddar Garlic Ritz Snacks: Add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese to the crackers before baking for a cheesy twist.
• Parmesan Garlic Ritz Snacks: Top the crackers with grated Parmesan cheese before baking for an extra burst of flavor.
• Spicy Garlic Ritz Snacks: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for a spicy kick.
• Herb-Infused Ritz Snacks: Mix in dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary with the garlic powder for a more aromatic flavor.
• Lemon Garlic Ritz Snacks: Add a dash of lemon zest to the garlic butter mixture for a fresh, citrusy twist.
• Ranch Garlic Ritz Snacks: Mix in a tablespoon of ranch seasoning for a tangy, creamy flavor.
• Bacon Garlic Ritz Snacks: Crumble cooked bacon over the crackers before baking for a smoky, savory addition.
• Garlic Butter Herb Ritz Crackers with a Touch of Sweetness: Add a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar to the butter mixture for a sweet and savory contrast.
• Garlic Parmesan Caesar Ritz Snacks: Toss the crackers with Caesar dressing seasoning and grated Parmesan cheese for a Caesar salad-inspired snack.
• Garlic Sriracha Ritz Snacks: Mix in a tablespoon of sriracha sauce with the garlic butter mixture for a tangy and spicy flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Garlic Ritz Snacks are best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze them. Place the cooled crackers in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for 5-10 minutes before serving.
• Storage: Store leftover crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Be sure the crackers are completely cool before sealing the container to maintain their crispness.

Special Equipment

Here are some special equipment items to help you make Garlic Ritz Snacks:

• Baking Sheet: A baking sheet is essential for evenly baking the crackers.
• Pastry Brush: Use a pastry brush to coat the crackers with the garlic butter mixture for an even layer.
• Microwave-Safe Bowl: A microwave-safe bowl is great for melting the butter quickly and efficiently.
• Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Measuring Spoons: Use measuring spoons to ensure the correct proportions of garlic powder and other seasonings.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
   Yes, you can use salted butter, but be sure to reduce the amount of added salt to prevent the crackers from being too salty.
2. Can I make these without garlic powder?
   You can substitute garlic powder with minced fresh garlic, but be sure to cook it gently to avoid burning.
3. Can I use a different type of cracker?
   While Ritz crackers work best for this recipe, you can use any buttery, crispy crackers of your choice.
4. Can I add more seasonings to these crackers?
   Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices to customize the flavor.
5. Can I make these in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare the crackers ahead of time and store them in an airtight container until ready to serve.

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Conclusion

Garlic Ritz Snacks are a simple yet irresistible treat that will quickly become a favorite in your snack repertoire. With their crispy texture and bold garlic flavor, these crackers make the perfect accompaniment to any gathering, from casual get-togethers to game nights. They’re incredibly easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite herbs, spices, or cheeses to suit your personal taste.

Whether you’re serving them with a creamy dip, topping them with cheese, or simply enjoying them on their own, these Garlic Ritz Snacks are guaranteed to satisfy. Their versatility makes them a great choice for parties, as well as a quick snack for when you’re craving something savory.

Don’t wait—try making these Garlic Ritz Snacks today and share your creations with me! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I can’t wait to see how your batch turns out! Enjoy the deliciousness!