If you are looking for a snack that bursts with flavor and crunch in every bite, the Garlic Ritz Snacks Recipe is an absolute winner. This easy-to-make treat combines the buttery, flaky texture of Ritz crackers with a perfectly seasoned garlic butter coating that will keep you reaching for more. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just want a cozy snack to enjoy with your favorite drink, these savory bites are quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Garlic Ritz Snacks Recipe is all about simplicity, featuring a handful of everyday ingredients that work together beautifully. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of taste, from the crispy base of the crackers to the rich, garlicky glaze that makes them shine.
- Ritz crackers: The buttery, flaky crackers provide the perfect crunchy canvas for our flavors.
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter adds richness and helps the spices cling to every cracker.
- Garlic powder: The star seasoning that delivers that bold, savory garlic flavor throughout.
- Onion powder (optional): Adds a subtle depth and sweetness if you want a touch more complexity.
- Dried parsley (optional): A hint of herbal freshness that brightens the flavor and adds color.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors to make the snack perfectly balanced.
- Ground black pepper (optional): Adds a gentle kick for those who enjoy a bit of spice.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For anyone looking for a touch of heat and exciting contrast.
How to Make Garlic Ritz Snacks Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Setting up early means everything will go smoothly as you mix your ingredients.
Step 2: Mix the Flavorful Butter Coating
In a large bowl, pour in the melted unsalted butter and whisk in the garlic powder, onion powder if you’re using it, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. This mixture is where the magic happens—each ingredient comes together to create a savory, fragrant coating perfect for your crackers.
Step 3: Toss the Crackers in the Butter Mixture
Add the Ritz crackers to the bowl and gently toss them until every cracker is evenly coated. Be gentle here to keep the crackers intact, but thorough enough so the flavors are evenly distributed. This is what ensures each bite tastes fantastic.
Step 4: Arrange the Crackers on the Baking Sheet
Spread the coated crackers out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. This step is essential for even baking, as you want to make sure each cracker crisps perfectly without overcrowding.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Crispy
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Halfway through baking, give the crackers a gentle stir to ensure even cooking. You’ll know they are done when they turn a lovely golden brown and smell incredibly inviting.
Step 6: Let Them Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, let the crackers cool on the baking sheet. This cooling step helps them crisp up even more. Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful Garlic Ritz Snacks, perfect for snacking anytime.
How to Serve Garlic Ritz Snacks Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling a bit of freshly chopped parsley or a dash of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving can add a fresh burst of color and extra flavor. These small touches elevate the Garlic Ritz Snacks, making them feel ready for any gathering.
Side Dishes
This snack pairs wonderfully with a chilled glass of white wine, a crisp beer, or even a refreshing soda. For something heartier, serve alongside a creamy dip like ranch or a tangy marinara for dunking, transforming these little bites into party favorites.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, layer the Garlic Ritz Snacks in a decorative bowl with alternating layers of cream cheese and herbs for an eye-catching snack centerpiece. Or, strategically place them around a cheese board to add texture and flavor contrasts that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container once they have completely cooled. This will help maintain their crispiness for up to three days, so you can enjoy your Garlic Ritz Snacks Recipe later without losing any of that wonderful crunch and flavor.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it may slightly affect the texture of the crackers. If you choose to freeze, place them in a freezer-safe container and thaw at room temperature before reheating gently to help restore some crispness.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly baked crunch, reheat the Garlic Ritz Snacks on a baking sheet in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes. This quick warming refreshes the flavors and texture beautifully without overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use regular salt instead of unsalted butter?
The recipe calls for unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness, but if you only have salted butter, just reduce the added salt accordingly to avoid oversalting your snacks.
What can I substitute for garlic powder?
While garlic powder is key for the signature flavor, you could use fresh minced garlic if you prefer. Just mix it with the melted butter and use a bit less to avoid overpowering the crackers.
How spicy will the red pepper flakes make the crackers?
The red pepper flakes add a mild heat that complements the garlic nicely. If you want it spicier, feel free to increase the amount slightly, or skip it altogether if you prefer a milder snack.
Can I make this snack gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the Ritz crackers with a gluten-free cracker of your choice that has a similar texture and flavor profile to keep the snack just as tasty.
How long do these snacks stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container, these Garlic Ritz Snacks stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for parties or afternoons at home.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly satisfying about the crunch, flavor, and simplicity of the Garlic Ritz Snacks Recipe. Whether you’re preparing a quick snack or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe comes together effortlessly while delivering big on taste. I encourage you to give it a try—the buttery, garlicky goodness will surely become a favorite in your snack repertoire!
Print
Garlic Ritz Snacks Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crunchy and flavorful Garlic Ritz Snacks made by coating Ritz crackers in a garlic butter mixture and baking them to golden perfection. Perfect as a savory snack or appetizer, these crispy crackers are infused with garlic and a hint of spices for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
Snacks
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30–35 crackers)
Garlic Butter Mixture
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate even baking.
- Prepare Butter Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter with garlic powder, onion powder (if using), dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended.
- Coat Crackers: Add the sleeve of Ritz crackers to the bowl with the butter mixture. Gently toss the crackers until each one is evenly coated with the garlic butter mixture, ensuring full flavor coverage.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the coated crackers out in a single layer on the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even baking and crispiness.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Stir the crackers halfway through the baking time to promote even browning and crispness.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the Garlic Ritz Snacks to cool completely on the sheet before serving. Enjoy them as a delicious, savory snack or appetizer.
Notes
- Optionally omit onion powder, parsley, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you prefer a simpler flavor.
- For extra crunch, bake a minute or two longer but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain crispness.
- Adjust salt according to your taste preferences.
