Garlic Ritz Snacks

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When it comes to quick and irresistible appetizers, I can’t think of anything better than Garlic Ritz Snacks. These little golden bites of buttery, garlicky heaven are my go-to when I need something easy yet utterly satisfying. The way the garlic seeps into the buttery crackers, creating a crispy, savory coating, makes them completely addictive. Every time I make a batch, they disappear faster than I can blink!

I first stumbled upon this idea during a hectic holiday season when I needed a last-minute snack for unexpected guests. What started as a quick improvisation quickly became one of my most requested recipes. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a snack to pair with a cozy soup, or simply craving a deliciously savory treat, these Garlic Ritz Snacks are sure to become a favorite.

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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Ritz Snacks

Garlic Ritz Snacks hit all the right notes: they’re crunchy, buttery, garlicky, and packed with flavor. They require minimal ingredients and take almost no time to prepare, making them perfect for busy days. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—you can serve them alongside dips, soups, salads, or just pile them high in a bowl for a casual snack. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just indulging yourself, these savory crackers will win everyone over with their simple yet irresistible charm.

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What Kind of Crackers Should I Use for Garlic Ritz Snacks?

While this recipe is designed around classic Ritz crackers because of their buttery, flaky texture, you can definitely get a little adventurous. I personally love the way Ritz crisps up perfectly in the oven without falling apart. However, you could experiment with other buttery round crackers if you like—just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly. Stick with something sturdy enough to hold the garlic butter and seasoning without getting soggy.

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Options for Substitutions

Not everyone has the same pantry stash, and that’s okay! Here’s how you can tweak Garlic Ritz Snacks to your liking:

• Butter Substitute: If you need a dairy-free option, use a high-quality plant-based butter. It’ll still give that luscious, rich flavor.
• Fresh Garlic Alternative: No fresh garlic on hand? Garlic powder works great too! About 1 teaspoon will deliver a nice punch.
• Herb Swap: I usually toss in a sprinkle of fresh parsley for brightness, but you could easily use dried Italian seasoning, thyme, or even a touch of rosemary for a different twist.
• Cheese Upgrade: Feel like taking it over the top? A light dusting of finely grated Parmesan right before baking adds another layer of savory goodness.
• Gluten-Free Version: Simply swap the Ritz crackers for your favorite gluten-free buttery crackers.

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Ingredients for Garlic Ritz Snacks

• Ritz Crackers: These are the foundation of the recipe. Their buttery, flaky texture makes them perfect for soaking up the garlic butter without falling apart.
• Unsalted Butter: Melting into the crackers, the butter adds richness and helps carry all the flavors. Using unsalted butter gives you control over the final saltiness.
• Fresh Garlic: Minced finely, garlic infuses each cracker with bold, aromatic flavor that’s impossible to resist.
• Parsley: Freshly chopped parsley brings a pop of color and a subtle freshness that balances the richness of the butter.
• Salt: A little sprinkle enhances all the other flavors and ties everything together beautifully.
• Black Pepper: A gentle kick of pepper adds just the right amount of background heat.
• Optional Parmesan Cheese: For those who want a deeper umami flavor, Parmesan is a delicious optional upgrade.

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Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze and ensure the crackers don’t stick.

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Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the finely minced garlic and let it simmer gently for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to brown the garlic—it should stay soft and aromatic.

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Step 3: Coat the Crackers

Place your Ritz crackers in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the warm garlic butter over the crackers and gently toss to coat them evenly. Take your time here to make sure each cracker gets a nice glossy layer.

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Step 4: Arrange and Season

Spread the butter-coated crackers out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle with a little salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant look. If you’re using Parmesan, now’s the time to sprinkle it over the top.

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Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 15–20 minutes. Keep a close eye on them—they should turn golden and crisp but not burn. Stir them around gently halfway through baking for even crispiness.

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How Long to Cook Garlic Ritz Snacks

Garlic Ritz Snacks bake beautifully in a relatively short time. You’ll want to bake them at 300°F (150°C) for about 15–20 minutes. Around the halfway mark (about 8–10 minutes in), give them a gentle stir to ensure they crisp up evenly. You’ll know they’re ready when the crackers are golden brown and you can smell that wonderful, buttery garlic aroma filling your kitchen.

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Tips for Perfect Garlic Ritz Snacks

• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic makes a huge difference. It infuses the butter with rich flavor that simply can’t be replicated by garlic powder alone (though powder is a fine backup).
• Toss Gently: When mixing the crackers with the butter, be gentle. You want them evenly coated but still intact.
• Spread Out Evenly: Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. A single layer ensures even crisping and avoids soggy spots.
• Keep the Heat Low: Baking at a lower temperature allows the crackers to slowly crisp up without burning the garlic or over-browning the edges.
• Watch the Oven: Ovens can vary! Start checking at 15 minutes to make sure your crackers are perfectly golden without being overdone.
• Add Cheese Lightly: If using Parmesan, go light—you want a delicate dusting so it melts and fuses without overpowering.
• Use Parchment Paper: This helps avoid sticking and makes transferring the finished snacks much easier.
• Serve Warm: While they are delicious at room temperature, they’re absolutely heavenly when served slightly warm, just after baking.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overbaking the Crackers: Ritz crackers are delicate. If you bake them too long, they can quickly go from golden to burnt. Keep a close eye during the last few minutes.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic burns easily and turns bitter. Make sure you only lightly sauté it in butter until it’s just fragrant, not browned.
• Not Tossing Evenly: If the crackers aren’t well-coated with the garlic butter, some will turn dry while others will be overly greasy. Toss carefully and thoroughly.
• Overcrowding the Pan: When crackers are piled on top of each other, they steam instead of crisp. Always arrange them in a single layer.
• Skipping the Stir Mid-Bake: Stirring once during baking helps ensure even crispness across all the crackers.
• Using Too Much Butter: It’s tempting, but excess butter can lead to soggy snacks rather than crisp ones.
• Adding Fresh Herbs Too Early: If you add herbs before baking, they might brown too much. Sprinkle fresh herbs just after baking or toward the end.
• Not Letting Them Cool Slightly: Garlic Ritz Snacks continue to crisp as they cool. Rushing to pile them into a container can trap steam and make them lose their crunch.

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What to Serve With Garlic Ritz Snacks

1. Creamy Tomato Soup

The buttery garlic crackers are amazing when dunked into a warm, creamy tomato soup.

2. Spinach Artichoke Dip

Pile a handful of Garlic Ritz Snacks next to a cheesy, gooey spinach artichoke dip for a perfect party platter.

3. Chili

Top your hearty bowl of chili with a few of these crackers for an extra crunch and flavor boost.

4. Charcuterie Board

Add a pile of these savory crackers alongside cheeses, cured meats, and fruits for a delicious, sophisticated snack board.

5. Fresh Garden Salad

Crush a few crackers over a crisp salad instead of croutons for a garlicky, buttery crunch.

6. Pasta Dishes

Serve alongside a creamy Alfredo or spicy Arrabbiata pasta to soak up all that saucy goodness.

7. Buffalo Chicken Dip

The garlicky flavor pairs incredibly well with the spicy, creamy kick of a buffalo chicken dip.

8. Simple Cheese Plate

Pair Garlic Ritz Snacks with sharp cheddar, brie, or gouda for a quick and irresistible snack.

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Storage Instructions

Garlic Ritz Snacks store beautifully if you let them cool completely before packing them away. Once they’ve cooled to room temperature, transfer them into an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh and crispy for up to 5 days at room temperature.

If you want to re-crisp them slightly (especially if your environment is humid), just pop them back in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes before serving. Avoid refrigerating them—it tends to make the crackers lose their delightful crunch faster.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a rough estimate for a typical serving (about a small handful, roughly 8–10 crackers):

• Calories: 160
• Total Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 15mg
• Sodium: 230mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 13g
• Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 2g

Please note: These values are approximate and can vary depending on specific ingredients used, especially if you add Parmesan cheese or use different crackers.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Garlic Ritz Snacks ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make them up to 2–3 days in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and if needed, re-crisp them in a low oven for a few minutes before serving.

2. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes! If you’re in a pinch, about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder works well. It gives a slightly different flavor, but still delicious.

3. Can I add cheese to Garlic Ritz Snacks?

Definitely. A sprinkle of finely grated Parmesan cheese before baking adds a wonderful savory note. Just use a light hand so the crackers stay crisp.

4. Are these snacks freezer-friendly?

Unfortunately, no. Ritz crackers don’t freeze and thaw well—they tend to lose their texture and get soggy.

5. Can I use flavored Ritz crackers?

You can, but be mindful of the extra flavors. Flavored Ritz varieties (like cheese or everything seasoning) might overpower the garlic butter.

6. What if I don’t have fresh parsley?

No worries! You can skip it, or use dried parsley or Italian seasoning instead. Fresh herbs do give a brighter flavor, but it’s still fantastic without.

7. Can I double the recipe for a big crowd?

Absolutely. Just make sure to bake them on multiple sheets or in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure even crisping.

8. Can I use a different type of cracker?

Yes, as long as it’s a sturdy, buttery cracker. Just know the texture and flavor may vary slightly from the classic Ritz experience.

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Conclusion

Garlic Ritz Snacks are everything I want in a quick snack—easy to whip up, made with simple ingredients, and outrageously flavorful. They’re buttery, crispy, and infused with the rich warmth of garlic and herbs, making them perfect for just about any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night in, a lively party, or a simple mid-afternoon treat.

Once you try these, you’ll see how dangerously addictive they are! I always recommend making a double batch because, trust me, they vanish quicker than you think. Whether you’re serving them with soups, dips, or just eating them straight from the tray (guilty!), these Garlic Ritz Snacks are guaranteed to steal the show.

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