When it comes to easy party appetizers that wow guests without keeping you in the kitchen all day, Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches take the spotlight. These little bites are salty, buttery, cheesy, and completely irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, game night, or casual family get-together, these sandwiches deliver a perfect balance of flavor and crunch in every bite. They’re the kind of snack people hover around the table for — and then ask for the recipe.
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Why You’ll Love Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches
Quick and easy – Made with simple ingredients in under 20 minutes.
Crowd-pleasing flavors – The combination of buttery Ritz crackers, savory filling, and melted cheese is universally loved.
Customizable – Perfect for adapting with different fillings, meats, or cheeses.
Make-ahead friendly – Assemble ahead of time and bake just before serving.
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Ingredients (and Why They Work)
Ritz Crackers (about 48 crackers) – The foundation of the sandwich. Their buttery, crisp texture makes the perfect “bread” for bite-sized sandwiches.
Sliced Deli Ham (8–10 slices, cut into squares) – Adds savory, meaty flavor. Turkey or roast beef also work well for variation.
Cheddar Cheese (8 slices, cut into squares) – Melts beautifully and adds sharp, tangy richness. You can swap in Swiss, provolone, or pepper jack for extra flavor.
Cream Cheese (4 oz, softened) – Acts as a creamy binder that helps hold everything together while adding a luscious texture.
Honey Mustard (2 tablespoons) – Brings a tangy sweetness that balances the richness of cheese and crackers.
Butter (2 tablespoons, melted) – Brushed on top before baking to enhance the golden, crispy finish.
Poppy Seeds (1 teaspoon, optional) – A classic finishing touch that adds a little texture and a professional look.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven – Set to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Filling – In a small bowl, mix cream cheese and honey mustard until smooth. This will be your spread for the base layer.
3. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Place half of the Ritz crackers (flat side up) on the baking sheet.
Spread each with a small amount of the cream cheese mixture.
Top with a square of ham and a piece of cheese.
Place another Ritz cracker (flat side down) on top to create a sandwich.
4. Finish and Bake – Brush the tops lightly with melted butter and sprinkle with poppy seeds. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve Hot – Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving warm.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches
Don’t overfill – A little goes a long way. Too much filling makes the crackers slide apart.
Choose the right cheese – Semi-hard cheeses like cheddar, Swiss, or provolone melt best without becoming greasy.
Make-ahead option – Assemble the sandwiches up to 4 hours before your event, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Add variety – Try pepperoni with mozzarella for a pizza-inspired version, or turkey with cranberry sauce for a holiday twist.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair these Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches with:
A fresh veggie tray with ranch dip to balance the richness.
Soup shooters (like tomato or potato soup) for a cozy appetizer spread.
A charcuterie board for a complete party table.
Sparkling drinks or punch to cleanse the palate.
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Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for an appetizer that’s simple, flavorful, and guaranteed to disappear quickly, these Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches are the answer. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes in the oven, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing snack that feels gourmet without the fuss. Perfect for parties, holidays, or ev
en a fun family movie night, this recipe proves that sometimes the best dishes really are the easiest.
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