Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches
by Jessica | October 17, 2023 3:59 pm
The Joy of Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches
When it comes to hosting gatherings, the emphasis is often on serving dishes that are not just delicious but also simple and quick to prepare. These Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches fit the bill perfectly.
Why They’re a Hit:
- Convenience: Using Ritz Crackers eliminates the need for baking your own bread or slicing baguettes. Their round shape and stable structure make them an ideal choice for mini sandwiches.
- Flavor Profile: The combination of savory ham, melt-in-your-mouth cheese, and the sweet tang of honey mustard makes for an exciting mouthful. The Worcestershire sauce brings depth and a hint of umami that complements the simplicity of the sandwich.
- Texture Contrast: The softness of the ham and cheese juxtaposed against the crispness of the Ritz Cracker creates a delightful play of textures in the mouth.
Pairing Suggestions:
- Drinks: These mini sandwiches would pair beautifully with a sparkling white wine or even a light beer. For non-alcoholic options, consider serving with iced tea or a citrusy lemonade.
- Sides: While they’re delightful on their own, you could serve them alongside a fresh fruit platter or a vegetable crudité with a dip.
- Desserts: Since the sandwiches are savory, they would balance out nicely with a range of sweet options. Consider mini cupcakes, fruit tarts, or chocolate-dipped strawberries for a cohesive bite-sized theme.
Variations to Try:
While the given combination is classic and always a crowd-pleaser, there are numerous ways to switch it up:
- Proteins: Swap out the ham for turkey, roast beef, or even smoked salmon for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese: Experiment with swiss, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack.
- Condiments: Trade honey mustard for a pesto spread, chipotle mayo, or even a raspberry preserve for a sweeter touch.
Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches are not only a testament to the wonders of quick and easy party food but also to the beauty of marrying simple ingredients to create something truly delightful. So the next time you’re playing host, remember these little gems. They might be small in size, but they pack a punch in flavor and are sure to be the star of the party!
Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches
These delightful mini sandwiches are the perfect bite-sized treat for any party or gathering. With a perfect blend of savory ham, cheese, and a touch of sweetness from honey mustard, they’re sure to be a hit. The rich buttery Ritz Crackers provide the perfect crunchy contrast to the melt-in-your-mouth filling.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 48 Ritz Crackers
- 12 slices deli ham, sliced in half
- 24 small square slices of cheese (Colby recommended)
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey mustard
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Instructions:
- Setup: Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Place a layer of Ritz Crackers on the baking sheet, arranging them into 4 rows of 6. Top each cracker with a half slice of folded ham and a slice of cheese. Cap off with another cracker to form sandwiches.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, and honey mustard.
- Brush and Sprinkle: Gently brush the mixture over each sandwich, ensuring they’re well coated. Sprinkle with poppy seeds.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the crackers turn a lovely golden brown.
Notes:
- Monitor your oven closely to prevent over-baking and ensure a perfect melt without burning the ingredients.
- Play around with ingredient stacks, considering color and texture contrasts.
- Strike a balance between sweet, salty, sour, and spicy to engage every taste bud.
- Always keep the sandwiches bite-sized for easy consumption.
- To optimize assembly time, prep your ingredients beforehand. However, avoid assembling too early as the crackers might go soggy.
- Presentation matters! Use a decorative tray or platter to serve.
- For festive occasions, consider adding seasonal fruits or crafting red, white, and blue sandwiches for patriotic celebrations.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 84 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 6g (Saturated Fat: 2g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 2g, Trans Fat: 0.1g)
- Cholesterol: 13mg
- Sodium: 249mg
- Potassium: 57mg
- Fiber: 0.2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Vitamin A: 54 IU
- Vitamin C: 0.1mg
- Calcium: 24mg
- Iron: 0.5mg
Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches: A Gourmet Finger Food Delight
Every host knows that the secret to a successful gathering lies not just in the main courses but also in the finger foods. Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches bring a sophisticated touch to any event. Their petite size packs a flavorful punch, making them the perfect snack for any gathering – from casual get-togethers to elegant soirées.
Why You’ll Love These:
- Quick & Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, these sandwiches are ready to impress in no time.
- Versatile: These sandwiches can be customized to suit any palate. Swap out the honey mustard for a spicy Dijon or add a touch of cranberry sauce for a festive twist.
- A Crowd Pleaser: Their bite-sized format makes them perfect for mingling, and their delicious taste ensures they’ll be a hit with guests of all ages.
Additional Tips:
- Cheese Variations: While Colby is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like smoked Gouda, sharp cheddar, or even a spicy pepper jack.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ham with cucumber slices or avocado for a vegetarian alternative.
- Boost the Flavor: Add a small slice of pickle or a dab of apricot jam for an additional layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with Drinks: These sandwiches pair beautifully with a crisp white wine or a light beer. Non-alcoholic options can include sparkling water with a splash of lemon or cranberry juice.
- Accompaniments: Serve these alongside other finger foods like stuffed mushrooms, mini quiches, and cocktail meatballs for a varied spread.
Storage & Make Ahead:
- If you’re planning to serve these at a later time, store the filling separately from the crackers to prevent them from becoming soggy. Assemble right before baking.
A Timeless Classic with a Twist:
The Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches may sound simple, but they’re proof that the best things often come in small packages. Their delicate balance of savory, sweet, and tangy ensures that they’ll be remembered long after the party is over. So, the next time you’re looking for the perfect finger food, look no further – these sandwiches are sure to be the star of the show! 🌟🥪🎉
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