Baked Ritz Sandwiches – 7 Irresistible Cheesy Party Bites

Table of Contents

Introduction

If there’s one appetizer that has never failed me, it’s these Baked Ritz Sandwiches. I still remember the first time I tried them—it was at a neighbor’s holiday gathering in Ohio. The kitchen was buzzing with laughter, kids running around, and the smell of baked cheese filling the air. On the counter sat a tray of these golden little sandwiches. At first glance, they looked simple, but the moment I bit into one, I realized why everyone kept going back for seconds. The buttery crunch of the crackers, the melty Swiss cheese, and the savory ham made it feel like comfort food disguised as a party snack.

Since then, these sandwiches have become my go-to whenever I host friends or family. They’re easy, quick, and always a hit. Plus, the recipe is flexible—you can swap the meat, change the cheese, or even add a little twist like garlic butter or onion seasoning.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need:

48 Ritz crackers
8 slices deli ham (cut into quarters)
8 slices Swiss cheese (cut into quarters)
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

If you enjoy creamy dishes, you’ll also love this Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe that pairs perfectly as a starter.

Directions

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
Prep the fillings: Slice the ham and Swiss cheese into quarters so they fit perfectly on the crackers.
Assemble the sandwiches: Place 24 Ritz crackers flat on the baking sheet. Top each one with ham and cheese. Place another cracker on top to form mini sandwiches.
Mix the butter topping: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, poppy seeds, and dried onion.
Brush the sandwiches: Use a pastry brush to coat the tops with the butter mixture.
Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes until the cheese melts and the crackers are golden brown.
Serve warm: Let cool slightly before serving, but don’t wait too long—they’re best when the cheese is gooey and the crackers are crisp.

Tips & Variations: Baked Ritz Sandwiches

Cheese options: Swap Swiss for cheddar, provolone, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Meat variations: Turkey, roast beef, or even crispy bacon work beautifully.
Spicy kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or a drizzle of hot honey for a surprising twist.
Vegetarian option: Replace the ham with thinly sliced roasted vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
Party platter idea: Serve these alongside this refreshing Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad for a balanced spread.

Storage

These sandwiches are best eaten fresh from the oven. However, you can assemble them in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. Leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any) can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 300°F for 5–7 minutes.

Time & Yield

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: About 24 mini sandwiches

Tools Used

Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
Pastry brush for the butter topping
Small mixing bowl
Whisk

Final Thoughts: Baked Ritz Sandwiches

Baked Ritz Sandwiches may be small, but they bring big flavor to any occasion. They’re buttery, cheesy, slightly tangy, and perfectly crunchy—everything you want in a party appetizer. Best of all, they’re customizable to whatever you have on hand.

If you’re looking for another easy bake, check out this classic Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Recipe for a comforting main dish. And for more creative appetizer ideas, you can always find inspiration from trusted sources like Delish’s appetizer collection.

Whether it’s a holiday dinner, a birthday party, or just a casual weekend hangout, these sandwiches will always win over your guests. Once you make them, I guarantee they’ll become a staple in your kitchen too.