These delightful RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches are a must-have for any gathering! These two-bite mini sandwiches not only pack a punch of flavor but also bring a fun and interactive element to your game day buffet. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or casual get-togethers, these sandwiches are easy to make and sure to impress your guests with their deliciously cheesy filling and crispy RITZ® Cracker base.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Preparation takes only 15 minutes, making it simple for any host.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With 48 mini sandwiches, there’s plenty to go around for everyone.
- Versatile Flavors: Customize with your favorite deli meats or cheeses for unique variations.
- Warm and Cheesy: Enjoy the gooey melted cheese paired with the crunch of RITZ® Crackers.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for game days, picnics, or holiday parties.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare these delicious sandwiches, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that help streamline the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish (13×9 inch)
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: A sturdy dish ensures even cooking and makes it easy to transfer the sandwiches.
- Microwave-safe bowl: Ideal for melting butter quickly without fuss.
- Whisk: Helps blend ingredients smoothly when mixing the sauce.
Ingredients
These two-bite mini sandwiches are the perfect addition to your game day buffet!
For the Base
- 96 RITZ® Crackers (about 3 sleeves)
For the Filling
- ½ lb thinly sliced deli ham
- ⅓ lb thinly sliced swiss cheese
For the Sauce
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon worcestershire sauce
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For Topping
- 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 ensures the sandwiches bake evenly from the start.
Step 2: Assemble Sandwiches
- Place 24 RITZ® Crackers in the bottom of a baking dish, flat side down.
- Take another 24 RITZ® Crackers and place them in another baking dish similarly.
- Tear the ham into small strips and lay a slice on each RITZ® Cracker.
- Cut swiss cheese into 1-inch pieces and place one piece on top of each ham slice.
- Finish by topping each mini sandwich with another RITZ® Cracker, rounded side up.
Step 3: Prepare Butter Mixture
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in about 45 seconds.
- Add dijon mustard, worcestershire sauce, and salt; whisk gently until combined.
Step 4: Bake Sandwiches
- Pour the butter mixture evenly over all mini sandwiches in both pans.
- Sprinkle poppy seeds and dried onion flakes on top evenly.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until cheese is melted and crackers are lightly golden brown.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Carefully transfer your delicious RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches to a serving platter. Enjoy them warm as a delightful snack or appetizer!
How to Serve RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches
RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches are delightful and versatile mini sandwiches that can elevate any gathering. Whether it’s a game day buffet or a casual get-together, here are some creative serving suggestions.
Individual Platter
- Arrange the sandwiches on a large platter for easy access. This makes it simple for guests to grab their favorites.
Pair with Dips
- Serve alongside various dips like ranch, spinach-artichoke, or hummus. These dips add flavor and create a fun mix-and-match experience.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Add sprigs of parsley or dill around the platter for a pop of color. Fresh herbs not only enhance the look but also add a fresh aroma.
Mini Skewers
- Stack the sandwiches on skewers for a fun presentation. This makes them easier to serve and eat, especially at parties.
Themed Serving
- Match the serving style to your event’s theme. For example, use red and blue plates for a sports-themed party!
Personal Touch
- Let guests customize their sandwiches with additional toppings like sliced pickles or jalapeños. This interactive element adds excitement to your gathering.
How to Perfect RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches
To ensure that your RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches are perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh deli meats and cheeses will enhance flavor and texture.
- Don’t overfill: Keep the layers thin so that the crackers don’t break under pressure.
- Adjust baking time: Keep an eye on the sandwiches as they bake; ovens can vary.
- Experiment with cheese: Try different types of cheese like cheddar or pepper jack for varied flavors.
- Serve warm: These sandwiches are best enjoyed warm, so serve them right out of the oven if possible.
- Store leftovers properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches
These mini sandwiches pair well with several side dishes that complement their flavor and make your meal complete. Here are some excellent options:
- Veggie Platter: A colorful assortment of fresh vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers served with ranch dressing.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and balance to your savory sandwiches.
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw provides a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft sandwiches.
- Potato Chips: Classic salty potato chips offer a satisfying crunch that pairs well with any sandwich.
- Deviled Eggs: These bite-sized treats are always a hit at parties and add protein to your spread.
- Cheese Board: Include an array of cheeses paired with nuts and dried fruits for an elegant touch.
- Stuffed Jalapeños: Spicy stuffed jalapeños can add a kick to your menu, appealing to those who love bold flavors.
- Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad filled with veggies provides a hearty side option that complements the light mini sandwiches.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches, it’s easy to overlook a few details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Using stale crackers: Fresh RITZ® Crackers are essential for that perfect crunch. Always check the expiration date.
- Overloading the ingredients: It’s tempting to add more ham or cheese, but too much can make the sandwiches soggy. Stick to the recommended amounts for ideal texture.
- Not preheating the oven: Starting with a cold oven can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat your oven to ensure consistent results.
- Skipping the butter mixture: The butter mixture adds flavor and helps achieve that golden brown top. Don’t skip this step for maximum taste!
- Cooling before serving: These mini sandwiches are best served warm. Serve them immediately after baking for optimal enjoyment.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches
- Place sandwiches in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts of 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches, here are some common questions answered.
Can I customize RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches?
Absolutely! You can swap out the deli ham for turkey or roast beef. Different cheeses can also enhance flavor.
How do I store leftover RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.
Are RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches suitable for kids?
Yes! These mini sandwiches are perfect finger foods for kids and can easily be customized to their liking.
What can I serve with RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches?
Pair these sandwiches with fresh veggies, chips, or a light salad for a complete meal or snack spread.
Final Thoughts
RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. They shine at gatherings like game day but can be enjoyed anytime. Feel free to customize the fillings according to your taste preferences for a unique twist!
RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches
RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches are the ultimate crowd-pleaser at any gathering! These bite-sized delights combine the crispiness of RITZ® Crackers with a deliciously cheesy filling of deli ham and Swiss cheese, making them an irresistible snack for game days, picnics, or family gatherings. Not only are they quick and easy to prepare—taking just 15 minutes—but their versatility allows you to customize flavors to suit your preferences. Serve them warm right out of the oven for a delightful treat that will impress your guests and elevate your entertaining game. Perfectly portioned, these mini sandwiches ensure everyone can indulge in this savory delight!
- 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 oven to 350°F.
- In a baking dish, layer half the RITZ® Crackers flat side down. Top each with ham strips and Swiss cheese pieces, then cover with remaining crackers rounded side up.
- Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl; whisk in mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and salt.
- Pour the butter mixture over sandwiches, sprinkle with poppy seeds and onion flakes.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until the cheese melts and crackers are golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
