Name: Quick and Delicious Ritz Crackers
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 box Ritz crackers (about 32–36 crackers); 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, melted; 1 packet Ranch dressing mix; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes; 1 teaspoon garlic powder

If you’re looking for a quick and delightful appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering, look no further than this Ritz Crackers Recipe. These crackers are not only festive and flavorful, but they are also incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time. Imagine buttery, cheesy crackers that bring together the zesty flavor of ranch dressing with a hint of warmth from red pepper flakes—these bites will disappear quickly at your next party!

One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. With just six ingredients and minimal cooking time, even the busiest hosts can whip up a batch of these delicious crackers. Plus, they can be made well ahead of time and stored for later, making them a convenient snack option. Whether you’re entertaining guests or looking for a tasty snack for yourself, this Ritz Crackers Recipe is sure to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Ritz Crackers Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal last-minute party snack.
Flavorful: The combination of buttery goodness, zesty ranch, and cheesy Parmesan creates a flavor explosion.
Versatile: Perfect for holiday parties, gifting, or simply enjoying as a snack.
Customizable: Get creative by adding your favorite herbs or spices to the mix.
Make Ahead: These crackers can be prepared in advance for ease and convenience.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get started on your Ritz Crackers Recipe, ensure your kitchen is set up and ready for action. Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking these delicious bites.

Gather your tools: you’ll need a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking and allow for easy cleanup. An oven mitt will come in handy when it’s time to remove your baking sheet from the oven. For mixing the buttery seasoning, grab a mixing bowl and a whisk or spoon—this will help you combine all the savory ingredients smoothly. Once your workspace is prepped with these essentials, you’re all set to create a crowd-pleasing treat.

Ingredients

1 box Ritz crackers (about 32–36 crackers)
1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, melted
1 packet Ranch dressing mix
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This gentle heat will perfectly crisp up your crackers without burning them, ensuring they’re deliciously golden by the end of baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This step not only helps prevent the crackers from sticking but also makes for a quick and easy cleanup after your delightful treats are baked!

Step 3: Arrange the Crackers

Next, take your Ritz crackers and arrange them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re spaced evenly to allow for proper cooking and ensure that they all get nice and crispy.

Step 4: Mix the Seasoning

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the melted butter, Ranch dressing mix, grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and garlic powder. Use a whisk or spoon to blend them well. This mixture is what brings the rich flavor to the crackers, so make sure it’s well combined.

Step 5: Coat the Crackers

Using a brush or a spoon, generously apply the buttery seasoning over each cracker. Make sure to coat them well to soak in the flavor. Don’t be shy—these flavors are what make the crackers standout treats!

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake the crackers for about 8 to 10 minutes. Keep a close eye on them—they should be golden brown and slightly bubbly when they’re done. This baking time is crucial; too long and they may become too hard!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once the crackers are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet. This cooling period is essential as it allows the crackers to crisp up even more. Afterward, they’re ready to be served, or you can store them for later.

Variations

Protein: Add some cooked, crumbled bacon for a savory twist that will impress your guests.
Vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped green onions or chives into the buttery mixture for added freshness.
Spices: Experiment with spices like paprika, cumin, or even herbed blends to customize the flavor profile to your liking.

Cooking Notes

Make sure to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
Let crackers cool completely before storing to maintain their crispiness.
For an extra holiday twist, consider adding dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the mixture.
If they lose their crispiness, simply reheat in a 275°F oven for about 5 minutes to re-crisp.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these crackers on a festive platter alongside your favorite dips for a delightful appetizer spread.
Package them in decorative tins or jars for a charming homemade gift during the holiday season.

Tips

Store leftover crackers in an airtight container to prolong their freshness.
If you’re preparing in advance for a party, make them a day ahead for convenience, as they stay tasty over time.
Feel free to double the batch if you have a large crowd; they’re bound to be a hit!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 120 per cracker
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 150mg

FAQs

Can I make these crackers in advance?

Absolutely! These Ritz crackers can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for several days.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar or a Mexican blend, but it may alter the overall flavor.

What’s the best way to store leftover crackers?

To keep them fresh, store the crackers in an airtight container at room temperature, away from moisture.

How can I add more spice to the recipe?

You can increase the amount of red pepper flakes for added heat, or even add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the butter mixture.

Conclusion

This Ritz Crackers Recipe is sure to become a favorite not just during the holidays but throughout the year whenever you need a crowd-pleasing appetizer. The versatility and ease of preparation make it a go-to for any occasion. With their buttery, cheesy flavor and delightful crunch, these crackers are a snacking experience you won’t want to miss. Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or variations in the comments below. Enjoy your delicious creation and happy snacking!