Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches Recipe
These Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches are a delightful, bite-sized appetizer perfect for parties and game days. Made with layers of ham and cheddar or Swiss cheese sandwiched between crispy Ritz crackers, then brushed with a savory butter glaze and baked to golden perfection, they offer a deliciously melty, flavorful snack that’s easy to prepare and loved by all.
- Author: Anna
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Total Time: 19 minutes
- Yield: 48 mini sandwiches 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Sandwiches
- 48 Ritz crackers (about 2 sleeves)
- 12 slices deli ham, cut into quarters
- 6 slices cheddar or Swiss cheese, cut into quarters
Glaze
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for a sweet glaze)
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Assemble the sandwiches: Arrange half of the Ritz crackers on the prepared baking sheet with the salted side facing down. Then place a small square of deli ham and a piece of cheddar or Swiss cheese on each cracker.
- Top the sandwiches: Place the remaining Ritz crackers on top of the ham and cheese layers with the salted side facing up to create mini sandwich stacks.
- Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds (if using), garlic powder, and honey or brown sugar (if you want a touch of sweetness) to create a flavorful butter glaze.
- Brush the sandwiches: Generously brush the tops of each sandwich with the prepared butter mixture to add flavor and help create a golden crust while baking.
- Bake until golden: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 7–9 minutes or until the cheese melts and the tops of the sandwiches turn a lovely golden color.
- Cool and serve: Remove the sandwiches from the oven and allow them to cool for 2–3 minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm as a savory party appetizer or game day snack!
Notes
- For a sweeter glaze, use honey instead of brown sugar or omit both for a purely savory flavor.
- Poppy seeds add a nice texture and subtle flavor but are optional.
- Use your preferred deli ham or substitute with turkey or roast beef if desired.
- Cheddar gives a sharper flavor while Swiss offers a milder taste; choose according to preference.
- Make sure to brush the butter mixture evenly for best results and golden color.
- Best served warm but can be made ahead and reheated briefly before serving.
Keywords: Ritz cracker sandwiches, party appetizers, game day snacks, baked snacks, ham and cheese bites, easy appetizers