Are you ready to elevate your snacking game with a burst of cheesy garlic goodness? Look no further than our irresistible Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits recipe! Made with buttery Ritz Bits crackers coated in a savory blend of garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese, these addictive bites are perfect for parties, movie nights, or anytime you’re craving a flavorful snack. Join us as we unlock the secrets to creating this mouthwatering treat that’s sure to become a favorite among family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 2 (8.8 oz) boxes cheese Ritz Bits
- 3/4 cup butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preparing the Coating:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
2. Coating the Ritz Bits:
- Place the cheese Ritz Bits in a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the melted butter mixture over the Ritz Bits, tossing gently to coat each cracker evenly.
3. Adding the Parmesan Cheese:
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the butter-coated Ritz Bits, tossing again to ensure the crackers are thoroughly coated with cheese.
4. Baking the Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits:
- Spread the coated Ritz Bits in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the crackers are golden brown and crispy.
5. Serving:
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits cool slightly before serving.
- Enjoy them warm as a delicious snack or appetizer!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of garlic powder and Italian seasoning to suit your taste preferences. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the butter mixture.
- Extra Cheesy: For an extra cheesy flavor, mix in shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese along with the Parmesan cheese.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano to customize the flavor profile of the crackers.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: To make keto-friendly Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits, replace the Ritz Bits crackers with almond flour crackers or cheese crisps. Use unsalted butter and double-check the carb content of the Parmesan cheese to ensure it fits within your macros. You can also add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for extra cheesy flavor without the added carbs.
- Low-Carb Version: Follow the same instructions as the keto version, but you can also reduce the amount of butter used to lower the overall fat content. Additionally, you can use a blend of grated Parmesan cheese and almond flour for the coating to further reduce the carb content.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use regular Ritz crackers instead of Ritz Bits? A: Yes, you can use regular Ritz crackers if Ritz Bits are not available. Simply break the crackers into smaller pieces before coating them with the butter mixture.
Q: How should I store leftover Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time for a party? A: Yes, you can prepare the Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits ahead of time and store them in an airtight container until ready to serve. You may need to reheat them briefly in the oven before serving to ensure they stay crispy.
Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits are a crowd-pleasing snack that combines the buttery goodness of Ritz crackers with the bold flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply snacking at home, these addictive bites are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and leave you reaching for more. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can whip up a batch of these irresistible treats in no time!
Treat yourself to the ultimate snacking experience with Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bits. From their crispy texture to their savory flavor, these bites are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you craving seconds!
