Garlic Bread Ritz Bits

Garlic Bread Ritz Bits

Garlic Bread Ritz Bits is a scrumptiously simple recipe that will surely become a family favorite around your dinner table. Picture this: tiny, buttery Ritz crackers tossed in a lovely garlic-infused mixture, baked until crisp and golden, and then served warm. The aroma wafting through your kitchen is enough to make anyone’s mouth water in anticipation. This dish is perfect for snacking, pairing with soups, or serving as an appetizer for your gatherings. It’s worth making not just for the taste but for the joyful memories it creates, especially during cozy family nights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Bread Ritz Bits recipe is a breeze to prepare and draws on minimal ingredients, making it both accessible and enjoyable for chefs of all skill levels. The easy prep means you won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen, which is a big plus for busy families or anyone seeking a quick snack. Additionally, because it’s family-friendly, both kids and adults alike will delight in these savory bites. Whether you enjoy traditional garlic bread or are looking for a delightful twist, this recipe offers a unique take that’s equally as satisfying.

Ingredients for Garlic Bread Ritz Bits

For this amazing Garlic Bread Ritz Bits, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Each ingredient plays a pivotal role in developing the rich, savory, and aromatic flavor profile. The buttery Ritz crackers serve as the perfect base, while the garlic powder and parsley bring an aromatic freshness. The Parmesan cheese adds that delightful cheesy goodness, elevating this snack to gourmet levels.

Step-by-Step Directions for Garlic Bread Ritz Bits

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Start the process by ensuring your oven is preheated. This step is essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture.

2. Mix the ingredients. In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well until everything is fully incorporated and a fragrant mixture forms.

3. Coat the Ritz crackers. Gently toss the Ritz crackers in the garlic butter mixture, ensuring each cracker is evenly coated. This will allow every bite to be bursting with flavor.

4. Spread on a baking sheet. Lay the coated crackers in a single layer on a baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even baking.

5. Bake. Bake the crackers in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden color and the aroma fills your kitchen.

6. Cool and serve. Take the baking sheet out of the oven and let the crackers cool slightly. They’re best enjoyed warm from the oven!

Tips & Tricks

Want to elevate your Garlic Bread Ritz Bits? Here are some chef’s secrets and optional extras to consider:

• Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can be swapped for dried parsley to change the flavor profile.
• Spicy Twist: For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture.
• Cheese Variations: Mix it up with different types of cheese; try cheddar or mozzarella for a different twist.
• Double Batch: If you’re serving guests, make a double batch. These crackers disappear quickly!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Present your Garlic Bread Ritz Bits in a charming bowl, perhaps alongside a warm marinara sauce for dipping. These crackers make an excellent addition to a charcuterie board, serving alongside olives, cheeses, and cold cuts. You can also pair them with a hearty soup, such as tomato basil or minestrone, for a comforting, satisfying meal. Drizzle a little extra melted butter over the top or garnish with fresh herbs to help elevate the dish visually and flavorfully.

Nutritional Information

While enjoying Garlic Bread Ritz Bits, it’s good to keep a general idea of the nutritional breakdown. Each serving contains roughly:

• Calories: 140 per serving (around 10 crackers).
• Fat: 9 g
• Carbohydrates: 14 g
• Protein: 2 g

This indulgent snack is certainly a treat, so enjoy it in moderation, especially if you’re counting calories!

Storing Tips & Variations for Garlic Bread Ritz Bits

If you have leftovers (which might be a rare occurrence!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. However, for an extended shelf life, consider freezing them. Just make sure they cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven for a few minutes until crispy.

For healthier swaps, you can use whole wheat Ritz crackers or opt for fresh garlic instead of garlic powder. Just remember that fresh garlic may require a shorter baking time to avoid burning.

Conclusion for Garlic Bread Ritz Bits

Ready to tantalize your taste buds with these Garlic Bread Ritz Bits? This simple, yet utterly delicious recipe invites you to step into your kitchen and create something special. Whether it’s a casual family night in or a festive gathering with friends, these delightful bites are sure to impress. Don’t wait—try this easy recipe today and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something tasty and quick!

FAQs

1. Can I make Garlic Bread Ritz Bits ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the coating ingredients and coat the crackers up to a day in advance. Just bake them fresh right before serving for the best texture.

2. Are there any gluten-free options?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free crackers in place of Ritz crackers to make this recipe gluten-free.

3. Can I use fresh garlic in this recipe?
Yes, you can! Use about 1-2 cloves of minced garlic instead of garlic powder; just be sure to watch the baking time carefully, as fresh garlic can burn quickly.

4. How can I store leftovers?
Store the cooled, leftover Garlic Bread Ritz Bits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

5. What can I serve with Garlic Bread Ritz Bits?
These crackers pair beautifully with marinara sauce for dipping, soups, or as a part of a charcuterie board alongside cheeses and meats. Enjoy your culinary creations!

Garlic Bread Ritz Bits

A scrumptiously simple recipe featuring buttery Ritz crackers tossed in a garlic-infused mixture, baked until crisp and served warm.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 10 pieces

Course: Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 140

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the coating

• 1/4 cup butter, melted Use unsalted butter for best flavor.
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder Adjust to taste if a stronger garlic flavor is desired.
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley Can substitute with fresh parsley.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt Adjust based on preference.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Can use freshly grated Parm for better flavor.

For the base

• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers Standard sleeve of Ritz crackers usually contains around 30 crackers.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well until fully incorporated.
3. Gently toss the Ritz crackers in the garlic butter mixture until evenly coated.
4. Lay the coated crackers in a single layer on a baking sheet, avoiding overcrowding.

Baking

1. Bake the crackers in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and aromatic.
2. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or different types of cheese. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.