These RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches are a delightful addition to any gathering, from game day celebrations to casual get-togethers. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for mingling, and the combination of savory ham and melted Swiss cheese between crispy RITZ® Crackers is undeniably appealing. Plus, they are quick to prepare, ensuring you can focus on enjoying the moment with friends and family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, these sandwiches can be ready in no time!
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves mini sandwiches, making them perfect for parties or family gatherings.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with different meats or cheeses to suit your taste.
- Easy Cleanup: Baking in a dish minimizes mess and allows for easy serving.
- Delicious Flavor: The buttery topping combined with poppy seeds adds a unique twist.
Tools and Preparation
To make RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will simplify the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish (13×9 inch)
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: The right size ensures even cooking for all sandwiches, making sure they heat perfectly.
- Microwave-safe bowl: Ideal for melting butter quickly without any fuss.
Ingredients
These two-bite mini sandwiches are the perfect addition to your game day buffet!
For the Sandwiches
- 96 RITZ® Crackers (about 3 sleeves)
- ½ lb thinly sliced deli ham
- ⅓ lb thinly sliced swiss cheese
For the Topping
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon worcestershire sauce
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon dried onion flakes
How to Make RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial for achieving that golden-brown finish on your sandwiches.
Step 2: Assemble the Base
- Place 24 RITZ® Crackers in the bottom of a baking dish, flat side down.
- In another baking dish, repeat this with another 24 RITZ® Crackers.
Step 3: Add Ham and Cheese
- Tear the ham into small strips and lay one piece on each cracker.
- Cut cheese into 1-inch pieces and place one piece on top of the ham.
- Top each mini sandwich with another RITZ® Cracker, rounded side up.
Step 4: Prepare the Butter Mixture
- Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl (about 45 seconds).
- Whisk in Dijon mustard, worcestershire sauce, and salt until well combined.
Step 5: Pour Over Sandwiches
Pour the butter mixture evenly over all mini sandwiches in both pans.
Step 6: Season
Sprinkle poppy seeds and dried onion flakes evenly over the tops of the sandwiches.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Bake for about 10–12 minutes or until cheese melts and tops are lightly golden brown.
Step 8: Serve Warm
Transfer to a serving platter and enjoy these delicious RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches while warm!
How to Serve RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches
These delightful mini sandwiches are perfect for any gathering, from game day to family celebrations. Serving them creatively can elevate your presentation and impress your guests.
On a Platter
- Arrange the sandwiches on a large serving platter, garnished with fresh parsley or herbs for an appealing look.
With Dips
- Serve with a side of mustard or a creamy dip for extra flavor. This adds variety and allows guests to customize their bites.
Individual Servings
- Place each sandwich in small paper cups or on mini plates. This makes it easy for guests to grab and go.
Pair with Drinks
- Complement these sandwiches with refreshing beverages like lemonade or iced tea. The cool drinks balance the savory flavors.
Add Decorative Picks
- Use decorative toothpicks to hold the sandwiches together. This not only keeps them intact but also adds a fun touch to your presentation.
How to Perfect RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches
Perfecting these mini sandwiches is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh deli meats and cheeses enhance the flavor and texture of your sandwiches.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time to avoid dry crackers. Bake until just golden brown.
- Experiment with Fillings: Try different combinations of meats and cheeses based on personal preference.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the sandwiches in advance and refrigerate them before baking. This saves time when entertaining.
- Serve Warm: These sandwiches taste best when served warm, so be sure to bake them right before serving.
- Customize Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning in the butter mix according to your taste, adding spices like garlic powder or paprika for extra zing.
Best Side Dishes for RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches
Pairing side dishes with your RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches can enhance the meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Veggie Platter: A colorful assortment of fresh vegetables served with ranch dip adds crunch and freshness.
- Fruit Skewers: Easy-to-eat fruit skewers provide a sweet contrast to savory sandwiches.
- Potato Chips: Classic potato chips add a salty crunch that complements the softness of the sandwiches.
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw offers a tangy bite that pairs well with rich flavors of ham and cheese.
- Deviled Eggs: These classic appetizers are always a hit at parties, providing protein-packed goodness.
- Cheese Board: Include an array of cheeses, crackers, and olives for a sophisticated touch that enhances your spread.
- Pickle Tray: A variety of pickles adds zest and cuts through the richness of the sandwiches.
- Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad can be a filling side that balances out the flavors of your mini sandwiches.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches is simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here are some tips to ensure your sandwiches are a hit.
- Overstuffing the Sandwiches: Adding too much ham or cheese can make the sandwiches difficult to handle. Aim for a balanced amount on each cracker to keep them neat and easy to eat.
- Skipping the Butter Mixture: The butter mixture adds flavor and helps bind the ingredients together. Don’t skip it! Pour it evenly over the sandwiches for the best taste.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Skipping this step can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 350°F for perfectly melted cheese and golden crackers.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your butter is melted and that all ingredients are at room temperature. This ensures better mixing and flavor distribution.
- Ignoring Baking Time: Baking for too long can burn the crackers while underbaking won’t melt the cheese properly. Keep an eye on them after 10 minutes for optimal results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezing RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches
- Wrap individual sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and reheat for about 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (about 15-20 seconds) until warmed through; be careful not to overheat as this may make them soggy.
- Stovetop: Place a few sandwiches in a skillet over low heat, cover, and heat until warm, turning occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches that can help you make these tasty bites even better!
Can I customize RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches?
Yes! Feel free to change up the fillings with different meats, cheeses, or even veggies based on your preference.
What dip goes well with RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches?
A creamy ranch dip or a warm cheese dip complements these sandwiches perfectly.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes about 48 mini sandwiches, making it ideal for gatherings or parties.
Can I prepare RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble them ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Final Thoughts
RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with your favorite ingredients, making them suitable for any occasion. Whether it’s game day or a cozy family gathering, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress everyone. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy their delightful flavors!
RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches
RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches are the perfect bite-sized snack for any gathering, from game day parties to casual get-togethers. These delicious mini sandwiches feature layers of savory ham and melted Swiss cheese nestled between crispy RITZ® Crackers, topped with a buttery poppy seed mixture that adds a delightful crunch. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these crowd-pleasers quickly and effortlessly, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of friends and family. Customize them with your favorite ingredients for a personalized touch that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 48 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 96 RITZ® Crackers
- ½ lb thinly sliced deli ham
- ⅓ lb thinly sliced Swiss cheese
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon dried onion flakes
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Arrange 24 RITZ® Crackers in a baking dish, flat side down. Repeat with another dish.
- Layer ham strips on each cracker, followed by cheese pieces. Top with another RITZ® Cracker.
- Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl; whisk in Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and salt.
- Pour the butter mixture over the sandwiches evenly.
- Sprinkle poppy seeds and onion flakes on top.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until cheese is melted and tops are golden brown.
- Serve warm on a platter.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
