There’s something magical about simple recipes that bring people together. These Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches are one of those feel-good, crowd-pleasing snacks that disappear within minutes at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, game day get-together, or casual family night, these warm, buttery bites are always a hit. They combine the comforting crunch of Ritz crackers with melty cheese, savory ham, and a flavorful buttery glaze that’s pure perfection.

Food has a way of creating memories, and these little sandwiches are no exception. They remind us of cozy evenings with friends, potlucks where everyone brings their best dish, and the comfort of familiar flavors served in a fun new way. Kids love them, adults crave them, and the best part? They come together in minutes and bake to golden deliciousness in just over 10.

If you’re looking for an easy appetizer idea that feels homemade and special without requiring hours in the kitchen, this is the one. With only a few pantry staples, you can create something that tastes like it came straight from a catering tray. And if you’re a fan of family-friendly comfort food, these sandwiches check every box.

 

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Just 15 minutes from prep to plate. Perfect for last-minute hosting!
• Kid-Friendly: Familiar ingredients with flavors everyone loves.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with different meats and cheeses.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble in advance and bake right before serving.
• Perfect for Entertaining: A warm appetizer that guests can grab and enjoy without utensils.

 

 

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 48 Ritz crackers
• 8 slices deli ham
• 8 slices Swiss cheese
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
• ½ teaspoon dried minced onion

 

 

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Cut the Meat and Cheese: Slice your ham and Swiss cheese into quarters (you’ll need 24 small pieces of each).
3. Assemble: Place 24 Ritz crackers on the baking sheet. Top each with ham and cheese, then cover with another Ritz cracker to form a mini sandwich.
4. Mix the Glaze: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, poppy seeds, and minced onion.
5. Brush the Sandwiches: Generously coat the tops of each sandwich with the buttery mixture.
6. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crackers are lightly golden.
7. Serve Warm: Let them cool slightly before serving. Best enjoyed warm and fresh from the oven!

 

 

Tips for Success

• Use Room Temperature Butter: This helps the glaze mix more smoothly.
• Don’t Overbake: You want the cheese melted, but not so long that the crackers burn.
• Make It Ahead: Assemble the sandwiches up to a day ahead and store in the fridge. Add the glaze and bake when ready.
• Serve with Dips: Pair with honey mustard, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce for even more flavor.

 

Recipe Variations

Looking to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Cheese Swap: Try cheddar, pepper jack, provolone, or mozzarella.
• Meat Alternatives: Turkey, roast beef, or salami are all great options.
• Vegetarian Option: Use roasted red peppers and mozzarella for a meat-free version.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the butter glaze.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use other crackers?
  Yes, but Ritz crackers are ideal because of their buttery flavor and crisp texture. Round buttery crackers work best.
• Can I make these ahead of time?
  Absolutely! Assemble the sandwiches and store them (unbaked) in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Brush with the glaze and bake when ready to serve.
• Do these need to be served warm?
  They’re best warm, but they’re still tasty at room temperature, making them great for buffet tables and potlucks.

 

 

More Easy Appetizers & Family-Friendly Recipes

If you love these Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches, you’ll enjoy:

• Cheesy Pull-Apart Bread – A fun, shareable snack loaded with garlic butter and melty cheese.
• Slow Cooker BBQ Meatballs – The ultimate no-fuss party food.
• Baked Mac and Cheese Bites – A bite-sized version of your favorite comfort food.