
Gotta tell you about my top snack trick - Cheesy Garlic Ritz Bites! Found this gem when I was hungry for garlic bread but needed something easier for get-togethers. These crunchy, savory nibbles are incredibly moreish - I always make two batches now 'cause they vanish so fast. The combo of that garlic bread taste with the crunch of Ritz Bits is seriously next-level snacking!
What Makes This Snack Special
I've tweaked this recipe through tons of movie nights and meetups, and it never fails to win everyone over. I'm still wowed by how simple it is to turn ordinary Ritz Bits into these garlicky, cheese-packed bites of deliciousness. The best part? You can whip them up super fast with stuff you've probably got sitting in your kitchen already!
What You'll Want to Grab
- Cheese Ritz Bits: 2 (8.8 oz) boxes; these tiny cheese sandwiches make the ultimate foundation for our snack.
- Butter: 3/4 cup, melted; go for unsalted to better manage the flavor.
- Garlic Powder: 2 teaspoons to give that punchy garlic taste.
- Onion Powder: 1/2 teaspoon to boost the overall savoriness.
- Italian Seasoning: 1 1/2 teaspoons for those fragrant herb notes.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 1/2 cups, grated; splurge on good cheese for amazing flavor.
How to Put It All Together
- Get Your Oven Ready
- Turn your oven to 375°F (190°C) and put some parchment paper on a baking sheet so nothing sticks.
- Mix Your Flavors
- Drop the Ritz Bits into a big mixing bowl. Grab a smaller bowl to melt your butter, then mix in the onion powder, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Pour this tasty butter mix over your crackers and toss until they're all coated.
- Bring On the Cheese
- Toss in the grated parmesan and mix everything again so all pieces get an even coating.
- Into the Oven
- Lay out your seasoned crackers on the baking sheet you prepared. Pop them in the oven for 7-9 minutes until they look golden and smell amazing.
- Let Them Rest
- Give the crackers a few minutes to cool before you dig in. If you're making them ahead, wait until they're completely cool before putting them in a sealed container or bag.
How to Enjoy Them Best
Nothing beats munching on these when they're just a bit warm from the oven - that's when they're totally addictive! But they're also great kept in an airtight container for snacking during the week. Just make sure they've cooled down completely before you pack them away to keep them nice and crunchy.
Party Food That Disappears Fast
Whenever I show up with these at gatherings, they're gone in a flash! I now carry the recipe with me because someone always wants to know how to make them. Try dipping them in marinara sauce - it's like having little bites of garlic bread you can take anywhere!
Switch Up Your Taste
I've tried so many different versions over time! Try adding some red pepper flakes for heat, or play around with different herbs. My newest favorite twist is mixing in some asiago with the parmesan - wow, what a difference that makes!
The Snack You'll Come Back To
There's a reason this has become my go-to party treat. It takes no time to put together, needs basic ingredients, and always gets compliments. And trust me, once that smell fills your kitchen while they're cooking, everyone will come running!

Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long do these stay fresh?
They'll stay good for up to 2 weeks if you put them in a container that seals tight. Just make sure they're totally cool before you pack them away so they don't get soft.
- → Can I use regular Ritz crackers?
You can totally use normal Ritz crackers instead. Just remember they're bigger than the Bits version so you might want to add more or less seasoning.
- → Can I use different seasonings?
For sure you can swap in ranch mix, taco spices, or whatever flavors you love. Just keep using the same amount of butter as the recipe calls for.
- → Why did my crackers get soggy?
They probably weren't completely cool before storage. Or you might've added too much butter. Always let them cool all the way first.
- → Can I make these ahead for a party?
You can make them up to a week before your get-together. Just keep them in a sealed container at room temp and they'll stay nice and crunchy.