There’s something magical about bite-sized snacks that brings people together. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a casual get-together, or just a cozy night in, these RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches are the perfect crowd-pleaser. They’re quick to make, endlessly customizable, and always disappear within minutes. I love how these little sandwiches combine the buttery crunch of RITZ® crackers with creamy, flavorful fillings—it’s a match made in snack heaven.
As someone who loves experimenting in the kitchen, I appreciate recipes that are both simple and versatile. These party sandwiches are exactly that. You can stick to the classic combinations or get creative with your favorite ingredients. They’re a fantastic way to use up leftovers or showcase seasonal flavors. Plus, they’re so easy to assemble that even kids can help out. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your entertaining repertoire.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
RITZ® Crackers: The star of the show! These buttery, flaky crackers provide the perfect base for your party sandwiches. Their light, crispy texture pairs beautifully with creamy fillings, and their round shape makes them ideal for bite-sized treats.
Cream Cheese: This is the glue that holds everything together. Cream cheese adds a rich, tangy flavor and a smooth, spreadable texture. It’s also a great base for mixing in other ingredients like herbs, spices, or even a touch of honey for sweetness.
Ham or Turkey: For a savory twist, thinly sliced ham or turkey adds a satisfying protein punch. You can use deli meat or leftover roasted meat, making this recipe a great way to repurpose leftovers.
Cheese: A slice of your favorite cheese—like cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack—adds a creamy, melty element that complements the other ingredients. It also helps hold the sandwich together.
Lettuce or Spinach: A small piece of lettuce or spinach adds a fresh, crunchy contrast to the creamy and savory components. It’s a great way to sneak in some greens!
Optional Add-Ins: Feel free to get creative with ingredients like pickles, olives, mustard, or even a drizzle of hot sauce. These little extras can take your sandwiches to the next level.
Ingredients List
- 24 RITZ® crackers
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 6 slices of ham or turkey, cut into small pieces
- 6 slices of cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or your choice), cut into small squares
- Lettuce or spinach leaves, torn into small pieces
- Optional: Pickles, olives, mustard, or hot sauce for added flavor
How to Make RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients and prepping them. Cut the ham or turkey into small pieces that will fit neatly on the crackers. Do the same with the cheese slices. Tear the lettuce or spinach into small, manageable pieces. If you’re using any optional add-ins, like pickles or olives, slice them thinly.
Step 2: Spread the Cream Cheese
Take a RITZ® cracker and spread a thin layer of softened cream cheese on top. This will act as the base for your sandwich and help the other ingredients stick.
Step 3: Layer the Meat and Cheese
Place a small piece of ham or turkey on top of the cream cheese. Follow it with a square of cheese. The combination of creamy, salty, and savory flavors is what makes these sandwiches so irresistible.
Step 4: Add the Greens
Top the cheese with a small piece of lettuce or spinach. This adds a fresh, crisp element that balances the richness of the other ingredients.
Step 5: Finish with Another Cracker
Place a second RITZ® cracker on top to complete the sandwich. Gently press down to secure all the layers. Repeat the process until all your crackers are used.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the sandwiches on a platter and serve immediately. These are best enjoyed fresh, but you can also cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to an hour before serving.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is much easier to spread and ensures your sandwiches hold together nicely.
- Customize to Your Taste: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different meats, cheeses, and spreads. Smoked salmon, avocado, or even a dollop of pesto can work wonders.
- Keep It Neat: Use a small cookie cutter to shape the meat and cheese into perfect rounds that fit the crackers.
- Add a Sweet Twist: For a sweet version, skip the savory ingredients and use peanut butter, jelly, or Nutella between the crackers.
- Make Ahead: You can prep the ingredients ahead of time and assemble the sandwiches just before serving to keep the crackers crisp.
FAQs
Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the sandwiches just before serving to prevent the crackers from getting soggy.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can substitute cream cheese with other spreads like hummus, goat cheese, or even a flavored butter.
Are there gluten-free options?
Yes, you can use gluten-free crackers if needed. Just make sure they’re sturdy enough to hold the fillings.
Can I make these vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the meat and use veggies like cucumber, bell peppers, or avocado instead.
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. The crackers may soften slightly, but they’ll still taste delicious.
These RITZ® Crackers Party Sandwiches are a fun, easy, and delicious way to elevate your snack game. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a quick treat, these bite-sized delights are sure to impress. Happy cooking!
