Baked Ham and Cheese Ritz Crackers

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Baked Ham and Cheese Ritz Crackers

Description:

These Baked Ham and Cheese Ritz Crackers are the ultimate bite-sized snack—crispy, buttery, salty, and loaded with melty cheese and savory ham. Perfect for game days, parties, or quick family treats, they combine the familiar comfort of a ham-and-cheese sandwich with the crunch of a Ritz cracker. In just minutes, you’ll have golden, gooey mini sandwiches that everyone will reach for!

Ingredients:

  • 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 24 crackers)

  • 12 slices deli ham, cut into small squares

  • 6 slices Swiss or cheddar cheese, cut into small squares

  • 3 tbsp butter, melted

  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)

  • ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce

  • ½ tsp poppy seeds (optional)

  • ¼ tsp garlic powder

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. Assemble: Place half of the Ritz crackers, flat side up, on the baking sheet.

  3. Add Fillings: Layer each with a piece of ham and cheese. Top with another cracker to make a sandwich.

  4. Make Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, and garlic powder.

  5. Brush and Bake: Brush each sandwich lightly with the butter mixture.

  6. Bake: Bake for 8–10 minutes, until cheese is melted and crackers are golden.

  7. Serve: Cool slightly and serve warm.

Notes:

  • You can use honey ham, turkey, or roast beef for variety.

  • Try pepper jack or mozzarella for a cheesy twist.

  • Make them ahead and store in the fridge; just reheat in the oven before serving.

  • Great with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or sriracha mayo.

Tips:

  • Don’t overbake—crackers can brown quickly.

  • For extra crunch, use an air fryer at 350°F for 5 minutes.

  • Brush butter mixture on both sides for deeper flavor.

  • Make a sweet version with ham, Swiss, and a drizzle of honey.

Servings:

Makes 12 mini sandwiches (serves about 4 people as an appetizer).

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 190

  • Protein: 8g

  • Fat: 14g

  • Carbohydrates: 10g

  • Fiber: 0g

  • Sodium: 420mg

  • Sugar: 1g

(Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)

Benefits:

  • Quick and easy snack ready in under 15 minutes.

  • Kid-friendly and great for lunchboxes or parties.

  • Combines protein, carbs, and fats for balanced energy.

  • Customizable with different cheeses, meats, or even vegetarian fillings.

Q&A:

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble them a few hours early, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.

Q: Can I freeze baked ham and cheese Ritz crackers?
A: Yes, freeze after assembling (before baking). Bake directly from frozen, adding 3–4 minutes to the baking time.

Q: What cheese works best?
A: Swiss, cheddar, or provolone melt beautifully without getting too runny.

Q: How do I keep them crispy after baking?
A: Let them cool on a wire rack so steam doesn’t make the crackers soggy.

Q: Are there any healthier alternatives?
A: Use low-fat cheese, whole grain crackers, and lean turkey or chicken slices.

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