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Crispy Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches – Easy Ham and Cheese Bites

Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches - featured image

These crispy Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches are a quick, crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring buttery crackers, savory ham, and gooey cheese. Perfect for parties, game days, or family gatherings, they’re easy to make and irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 48 Ritz crackers (classic buttery rounds, about 1 family size box)
  • 8 oz thinly sliced deli ham (honey or smoked ham)
  • 8 oz sliced cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or American)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp dried parsley
  • 1 tbsp poppy seeds (optional)
  • Mustard or mayonnaise (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Lay out half the Ritz crackers (flat side up) on the prepared baking sheet (about 24 crackers for 12 sandwiches; adjust as needed).
  3. Trim ham and cheese slices to fit crackers. Layer one piece of ham and one piece of cheese on each cracker.
  4. Top with another Ritz cracker (flat side down), gently pressing to make a mini sandwich.
  5. Melt butter in a small bowl. Stir in garlic powder, dried parsley, and poppy seeds (if using).
  6. Brush the tops of each sandwich with the seasoned melted butter, using a pastry brush or spoon.
  7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until cheese is melted and cracker tops are golden brown.
  8. Let cool for 2-3 minutes on the baking sheet. Use a spatula or tongs to transfer to a serving platter.
  9. Serve warm, with optional mustard or mayo for dipping.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free crackers. For vegetarian, swap ham for roasted veggies and extra cheese. Don’t overload with cheese to avoid burning. Bake on the middle rack and rotate the pan for even crispiness. Reheat leftovers in a toaster oven for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: ritz cracker sandwiches, ham and cheese bites, party appetizer, easy snacks, kid-friendly, finger food, game day, comfort food