These delightful RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches are perfect for any occasion, from game day to casual get-togethers. Easy to make and full of flavor, they are sure to impress your guests. The combination of creamy Swiss cheese and savory ham between perfectly baked RITZ® Crackers creates a mouthwatering treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a quick snack, these mini sandwiches are the ideal choice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These sandwiches can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making them an effortless option for busy hosts.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With their delicious flavors and fun presentation, they’re guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the fillings to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for game days, parties, or simple family dinners, they fit seamlessly into any event.
- Minimal Cleanup: Using RITZ® Crackers means less mess and hassle while serving.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish (13×9 inch)
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: A good quality baking dish ensures even cooking and browning of your sandwiches.
- Microwave-safe bowl: Using this allows for easy melting of butter without the risk of burning it.
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 (175°C) to prepare for baking these delicious sandwiches.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
- Place 24 RITZ® Crackers in a 13×9 inch baking dish, flat side down.
- In another baking dish, place another 24 RITZ® Crackers in the same manner.
- Tear the deli ham into small strips and lay a piece on each cracker.
- Cut Swiss cheese into 1-inch pieces and place one piece on top of each slice of ham.
- Top each mini sandwich with another RITZ® Cracker, rounded side up.
Step 3: Prepare the Butter Mixture
- In a microwave-safe bowl, add the butter.
- Microwave until melted (about 45 seconds).
- Whisk in Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and salt until well combined.
Step 4: Bake the Sandwiches
- Pour the butter mixture evenly over all mini sandwiches in both pans.
- Sprinkle poppy seeds and dried onion flakes evenly on top.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes or until cheese is melted and tops are lightly golden brown.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Transfer your warm RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches to a serving platter and enjoy while they’re fresh!
How to Serve RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches
These delicious RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches are perfect for any gathering. Their bite-sized format makes them easy to serve and enjoy. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your party experience.
On a Platter
- Arrange the mini sandwiches on a large platter for a beautiful presentation.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to add color.
With Dipping Sauces
- Serve with a side of mustard or honey for a sweet and tangy contrast.
- Consider including a creamy ranch dip for extra flavor.
As Part of a Charcuterie Board
- Place the sandwiches alongside meats, cheeses, and fruits.
- This mix will appeal to various tastes at your event.
Paired with Fresh Veggies
- Include a selection of fresh vegetables like carrots and bell peppers.
- Crunchy veggies provide a healthy balance to the rich sandwiches.
How to Perfect RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches
To ensure your RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches turn out perfectly every time, follow these tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh deli ham and cheese will enhance the flavor profile significantly.
- Don’t skip melting the butter: Mixing in mustard and Worcestershire sauce with melted butter ensures even distribution of flavor.
- Watch your baking time: Keep an eye on them while they bake to prevent burning. Remove them when lightly golden brown.
- Experiment with fillings: Feel free to swap out ham and swiss for other deli meats or cheeses based on your preference.
Best Side Dishes for RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches
Pairing sides with your RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Veggie Platter: A mix of carrots, celery, and cucumbers adds crunch and freshness.
- Fruit Skewers: Easy-to-eat skewers with grapes, melon, and berries offer sweetness.
- Potato Chips: Classic salty snacks that complement the savory flavors of the sandwiches.
- Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad adds substance; consider adding cherry tomatoes and basil.
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that pairs well with rich flavors.
- Deviled Eggs: These classic appetizers are always a hit at parties; they add protein without being too heavy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches can be simple, but small errors can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.
- Not using fresh ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially the deli ham and cheese, are fresh. This will enhance the flavor and overall quality of your sandwiches.
- Skipping the butter mixture: The melted butter mixture adds essential flavor and moisture. Don’t skip this step; it’s key for deliciousness!
- Overbaking the sandwiches: Keep an eye on your mini sandwiches while baking. Overbaking can make them dry, so remove them when the cheese is just melted.
- Using incorrect cracker layers: Make sure you layer the RITZ® Crackers correctly. The flat sides should face down and up for the best texture.
- Not customizing fillings: Feel free to change up the meats and cheeses according to your taste preferences. Customization keeps things exciting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container.
- They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches
- Wrap individual sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can last up to 2 months.
Reheating RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat for about 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-45 seconds; check for warmth.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover with a lid for even warming.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
How do I make RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches vegetarian?
You can substitute deli meat with vegetables like roasted peppers or avocado. Add cheese or spreads for extra flavor.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Cheddar, pepper jack, or mozzarella work great too. Experiment with your favorite cheeses.
What dips pair well with RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches?
Try serving with ranch dressing, hummus, or a creamy spinach dip for an added flavor boost.
Are RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches suitable for kids?
Yes! These mini sandwiches are perfect for kids’ parties. Their size makes them easy to handle and eat.
Final Thoughts
RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize these sandwiches to suit any taste preference or occasion. Give this easy recipe a try at your next gathering—you won’t be disappointed!
RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches
RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches are the ultimate bite-sized treats that bring joy to any gathering. These delicious mini sandwiches are easy to prepare and combine the creamy richness of Swiss cheese with the savory goodness of deli ham, all nestled between perfectly baked RITZ® Crackers. Whether you’re hosting a Super Bowl party, a casual get-together, or just need a quick snack, these delightful sandwiches are sure to impress your guests. With only a few simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, you can whip up these flavorful bites in no time. Perfect for sharing, they’ll become a favorite at your next event!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 48 mini sandwiches (24 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 your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a baking dish, layer 24 RITZ® Crackers flat side down. Top each with deli ham and Swiss cheese.
- Cover with another RITZ® Cracker, rounded side up.
- Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl and whisk in Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and salt.
- Drizzle the butter mixture over the sandwiches and sprinkle with poppy seeds and onion flakes.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the cheese melts and tops are golden brown.
- Serve warm on a platter.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 mini sandwiches (58g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
