I love turning simple pantry snacks into something bold and irresistible, and this Garlic Bread Ritz Bits recipe does exactly that. I take cheesy Ritz Bits and coat them in a buttery, garlicky, herby mixture, then finish them with plenty of parmesan for a crunchy, savory snack that tastes like bite-sized garlic bread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because it is incredibly easy, uses just a few ingredients, and delivers huge flavor. I make it when I want a quick snack for movie night, a party bowl that disappears fast, or something crunchy to satisfy a salty craving. I also enjoy how customizable it is, depending on my mood or what spices I have on hand.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
I start by preheating my oven to 300°F (150°C) and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
I pour the Ritz Bits into a large mixing bowl.
In a separate bowl, I mix the melted butter with garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
I pour the seasoned butter over the crackers and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
I sprinkle in the grated parmesan cheese and mix again so it sticks to the buttery crackers.
I spread the crackers out in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
I bake them for about 15–20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are crisp and fragrant.
I let them cool completely before serving so they finish crisping up.
Servings And Timing
I usually get about 8 servings from this recipe.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: about 30 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes when I want a little heat.
I like swapping Italian seasoning for ranch seasoning for a different flavor twist.
I occasionally use garlic parmesan seasoning instead of plain garlic powder for extra depth.
I also enjoy adding dried parsley at the end for a fresh, herby finish.
Storage/Reheating
I store these Garlic Bread Ritz Bits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
If they lose a bit of crispness, I reheat them in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes to bring the crunch back.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?
I can make it in an air fryer by cooking at 300°F for about 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Can I use a different type of Ritz Bits?
I like using cheese Ritz Bits, but I can also use plain or peanut butter varieties for a sweet-savory experiment.
Do I need to use freshly grated parmesan?
I prefer freshly grated parmesan because it melts and coats better, but pre-grated works if that’s what I have.
How do I keep the crackers from getting soggy?
I make sure not to overcrowd the pan and always let them cool fully so they crisp up properly.
Can I double this recipe?
I often double it for parties, but I bake it on two separate trays to ensure even cooking.
Conclusion
I keep coming back to this Garlic Bread Ritz Bits recipe because it is simple, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. I enjoy how quickly it comes together and how it transforms a basic snack into something addictive and comforting. This is one of those recipes I make once and then crave again and again.
Garlic Bread Ritz Bits are a bold, savory snack made by coating cheese-filled crackers in a buttery garlic-herb mixture and baking them with parmesan until crispy and irresistible — like bite-sized garlic bread.
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 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 1/2 cups grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Pour Ritz Bits into a large mixing bowl.
In a separate bowl, mix melted butter with garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
Pour the seasoned butter over the crackers and toss gently to coat evenly.
Add grated parmesan cheese and stir until evenly coated.
Spread crackers in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and fragrant.
Let cool completely before serving to allow them to crisp up fully.
Notes
Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Use ranch or garlic parmesan seasoning for different flavor variations.
Sprinkle dried parsley after baking for a herby finish.
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Re-crisp in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes if needed.
