Garlic Bread Ritz Bits are a fantastic snack that combines the irresistible crunch of Ritz Bits crackers with the rich, savory flavors of garlic, butter, and parmesan cheese. This simple yet delicious treat is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, watching a movie, or just looking for a quick and tasty snack. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a batch of these addictive bites in no time.
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 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 1/2 cups grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Prepare the Ritz Bits:
- Place the cheese Ritz Bits in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the Butter Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to mix all the ingredients evenly.
- Coat the Ritz Bits:
- Pour the butter mixture over the cheese Ritz Bits. Toss gently to ensure all the crackers are well-coated with the butter mixture.
- Add the Parmesan Cheese:
- Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the coated Ritz Bits. Toss again to distribute the cheese evenly over the crackers.
- Bake the Ritz Bits:
- Spread the coated Ritz Bits in a single layer on a large baking sheet. You may need to use two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the crackers are golden and crisp.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the Ritz Bits cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, transfer them to a serving bowl or an airtight container for storage.
Cook’s Notes and Variations
- Seasoning Variations: Feel free to experiment with other seasonings such as paprika, chili powder, or ranch seasoning mix for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese Variations: For a cheesier taste, add a mixture of grated parmesan and cheddar cheese.
- Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the butter mixture.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. These crackers can also be frozen for longer storage; just thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Keto Version
To make a keto-friendly version of Garlic Bread Ritz Bits, you can substitute the cheese Ritz Bits with a keto-friendly cheese cracker or use almond flour crackers. Ensure all your seasonings and cheese are low in carbs.
Ingredients
- 2 cups keto-friendly cheese crackers
- 3/4 cup butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 1/2 cups grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Prepare the Crackers:
- Place the keto-friendly cheese crackers in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the Butter Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to mix all the ingredients evenly.
- Coat the Crackers:
- Pour the butter mixture over the crackers. Toss gently to ensure all the crackers are well-coated with the butter mixture.
- Add the Parmesan Cheese:
- Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the coated crackers. Toss again to distribute the cheese evenly over the crackers.
- Bake the Crackers:
- Spread the coated crackers in a single layer on a large baking sheet. You may need to use two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the crackers are golden and crisp.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the crackers cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, transfer them to a serving bowl or an airtight container for storage.
Low-Carb Version
For a low-carb version, you can follow the same steps as the keto version, ensuring you use low-carb cheese crackers and seasonings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use other types of crackers? A: Yes, you can use other small bite-sized crackers or even pretzels. Adjust the seasoning and baking time as needed.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time? A: Absolutely! Garlic Bread Ritz Bits can be made a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container until ready to serve.
Q: Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder? A: Fresh garlic might not distribute as evenly and could burn during baking. Garlic powder ensures even coating and a consistent flavor.
Q: What if I don’t have Italian seasoning? A: You can make your own Italian seasoning by mixing dried basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and a pinch of marjoram.
Q: Are there any gluten-free alternatives? A: Look for gluten-free cheese crackers and make sure to check the labels on your seasonings and cheese to ensure they are gluten-free.
Garlic Bread Ritz Bits are an easy and flavorful snack that can be whipped up in no time. Their rich, buttery taste combined with the sharpness of parmesan cheese and the aromatic blend of garlic and Italian herbs make them a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a delicious treat for yourself, these crackers will quickly become a favorite. Try this recipe out and enjoy the delightful crunch and savory goodness of Garlic Bread Ritz Bits!
