Garlic Bread Ritz Bits are a quick and easy snack or appetizer that combines the buttery, crispy goodness of Ritz crackers with the savory, aromatic flavor of garlic bread. These little bite-sized treats are full of flavor and make the perfect snack for any gathering. Plus, they’re incredibly simple to make!
Here’s how you can whip up this delicious snack:
Garlic Bread Ritz Bits Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 package (8 oz) Ritz Bits crackers (with cheese or original flavor)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp garlic powder (or 2 cloves of fresh garlic, finely minced)
- 1 tbsp dried parsley (or fresh parsley, chopped)
- 1/2 tsp dried basil (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/4 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the Ritz Bits from sticking.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture:
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder (or fresh garlic), dried parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- If you’re using Parmesan cheese, add it to the butter mixture as well.
3. Coat the Ritz Bits:
- In a large mixing bowl, pour the Ritz Bits crackers.
- Drizzle the garlic butter mixture over the crackers, tossing gently to coat each piece. Be sure to coat them evenly so every Ritz Bit gets a nice layer of garlic butter.
4. Bake:
- Spread the coated Ritz Bits out in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them so they don’t burn.
5. Cool and Serve:
- Let the garlic bread Ritz Bits cool for a few minutes before serving. They’ll crisp up even more as they cool.
Tips:
- Storage: These garlic bread Ritz Bits can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Extra Flavor: For a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the butter mixture.
- Garlic Butter Variations: You can swap the garlic powder for garlic salt for a more intense flavor or even use freshly roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter flavor.
