Golden Garlic Parmesan Ritz Crackers

Looking for a quick and delicious snack that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds? Look no further than these Golden Garlic Parmesan Ritz Crackers! Perfectly seasoned with a blend of garlic, onion, and Italian herbs, these crackers are topped with a generous amount of parmesan cheese, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Ingredients Needed

To create these savory delights, you will need the following 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 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 1/2 cups grated parmesan cheese

Tips for Selecting Ingredients

When choosing your ingredients, opt for high-quality parmesan cheese and fresh spices to enhance the flavor of your crackers. Ensure that your butter is fully melted and mixed well with the seasonings for even coating.

Step-by-Step Directions

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Crackers: Pour the cheese Ritz Bits into a large mixing bowl and set them aside.
Melt and Mix: In a small bowl, melt the butter and whisk in the garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.

Combine Ingredients: Pour the butter mixture over the crackers and toss them gently to ensure each cracker is well coated.
Add Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the top of the crackers and toss again to distribute the cheese evenly.
Bake to Perfection: Spread the coated crackers onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 7-9 minutes or until they turn golden brown.

Cool and Store: Allow the crackers to cool completely before storing them in an airtight bag or container.

Why These Crackers Stand Out

The combination of garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning creates a savory, mouth-watering flavor profile that makes these crackers stand out. The parmesan cheese adds a delightful tang and crispiness that is hard to resist.

Tips for Perfect Golden Garlic Parmesan Ritz Crackers

Even Coating: Ensure that all crackers are evenly coated with the butter mixture and parmesan cheese for consistent flavor.

Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the crackers as they bake to avoid overcooking, which can make them too crispy or burnt.
Cooling is Key: Let the crackers cool completely before storing to maintain their crunchiness.

Serving Suggestions

These crackers are versatile and can be served on various occasions:

Party Snack: Serve them at parties as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Soup Accompaniment: Pair them with your favorite soup for added texture and flavor.
Cheese Board Addition: Include them in a cheese board for a gourmet touch.

Storage Instructions

Store the cooled crackers in an airtight bag or container to keep them fresh. They can be stored at room temperature for up to a week.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of these crackers contains approximately:

Calories: 220 kcal

Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 5g

Health Benefits

These crackers provide a good source of calcium from the parmesan cheese and can be a delightful occasional snack.

Variations of the Recipe

Flavor Options

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the butter mixture for a spicy version.
Herb Lovers: Increase the amount of Italian seasoning and add a teaspoon of dried basil.

Dietary Modifications

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crackers instead of Ritz Bits.
Low Sodium: Opt for low-sodium crackers and reduce the amount of added salt.

FAQs

How can I ensure my crackers stay crispy?

Store them in an airtight container and make sure they are fully cooled before sealing.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or gouda for different flavors.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

You can make your own blend using oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary.

Can I make these crackers in advance?

Absolutely! These crackers can be made a day or two ahead and stored properly.

Are these crackers suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, as long as the parmesan cheese used is made without animal rennet.