Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches

Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches make the perfect bite-sized appetizer for gatherings big or small with layers of savory meat and melty cheese hugged between buttery crackers and brushed with golden butter. This recipe transforms the humble Ritz cracker into an irresistible party delight that disappears fast from any snack table.

The first time I made these was for a last-minute game night and my friends practically fought over the last one. Now I always make a double batch because they go so quickly.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Ritz crackers: the classic buttery crispness is key look for fresh packs to keep them from going stale
• Butter (melted): this creates the signature golden finish use real butter for better flavor
• Mustard: adds just the right zing opt for Dijon or spicy brown for deeper flavor
• Deli meat: thinly sliced turkey ham or roast beef work perfectly always choose meat with good moisture and flavor
• Cheese: pre-sliced cheddar Swiss provolone or American all melt well make sure cheese is fresh and smooth

How to Make It

Prep the Casserole Dish:

Lightly grease your casserole dish or line it with parchment paper to keep the sandwiches from sticking and make clean up easier

Assemble the Sandwich Layers:

Set one Ritz cracker down and spread a thin layer of mustard over the surface for tang then top with a slice of deli meat for heartiness and layer with a thin slice of cheese for creaminess Place a second Ritz cracker on top and press together gently so everything holds

Arrange in the Dish:

Place each assembled sandwich in a single layer in your prepared casserole dish Try to fit them snugly but without crowding so each one crisps up

Brush with Butter:

Using a pastry brush coat the tops of the sandwiches with a generous layer of melted butter This step gives that delicious golden color and extra flavor

Bake to Melty Perfection:

Place the dish in your preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit Bake for ten to twelve minutes until the cheese is melted and the tops are turning golden brown Check after ten minutes so they do not overbake

Serve Warm and Enjoy:

Remove from the oven and serve the sandwiches while still warm These taste best within minutes of coming out of the oven and make an irresistible appetizer

My favorite part is the buttery cracker topping you get with every bite I still remember my niece’s grin the first time she tried these and declared them better than pizza bites Family moments around a tray of these sandwiches are always full of laughter

Flavor Boosters

For a vegetarian version skip the meat and load up more cheese or add slices of roasted bell pepper Swap the cheese for pepper jack if you want more kick Try whole wheat crackers if you like hearty flavor The recipe works well with nearly any thin sliced deli item so let your taste drive the combinations

Serving Suggestions

Pile these warm sandwiches high on a platter and serve with soup for a cozy lunch or with an array of dips at game day They are also delicious paired with a big salad or as a simple kid lunch My family sometimes requests a platter of these as a movie night snack in place of popcorn

Creative Twists

Ritz cracker sandwiches are a Southern party staple and evoke the easy spirit of potluck gatherings During the holidays add cranberry relish to the meat layer for a festive twist Swap the cheese for brie and add fig jam for a classy cocktail party version They fit every season thanks to the versatility

Bring these to your next party or family night and watch them disappear. You will come back to this fun and delicious recipe again and again.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ Can I use different deli meats?

Yes, you can use ham, turkey, chicken, or any favorite sliced deli meat to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

→ What kind of cheese works best?

Any melting cheese like Swiss, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or provolone will be delicious and work well in these sandwiches.

→ Can these sandwiches be prepared ahead of time?

You can assemble them a few hours in advance, store covered in the fridge, and bake just before serving for best texture and flavor.

→ Is it possible to make these sandwiches vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the deli meat or use a vegetarian substitute to make the sandwiches meatless while still keeping the savory flavor.

→ How can I keep the sandwiches crisp after baking?

Serve immediately after baking for maximum crispness, and avoid covering with foil as it can trap moisture and soften the crackers.