There’s a certain charm to finger foods that make them perfect for parties and gatherings. Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches are a prime example of this delightful trend. They’re small, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, making them a hit at any event. I remember the first time I encountered these mini sandwiches at a family gathering. They were an instant hit, disappearing almost as quickly as they were served. The combination of buttery Ritz crackers, savory ham, and creamy Swiss cheese, all topped with a tangy mustard sauce, created a symphony of flavors that was simply irresistible.
Ingredients
48 Ritz crackers
8 slices deli ham
8 slices Swiss cheese
4 tablespoons butter, melted
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon poppy seeds
1/2 teaspoon dried minced onion
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the sandwiches, allowing for even cooking and melting of the cheese.
2. Prepare the Crackers
Place half of the Ritz crackers in a 9×13-inch baking dish, flat side down. Arranging them flat side down ensures that they sit stable in the baking dish and create a solid base for the toppings.
3. Add the Ham
Tear the deli ham into small strips. Folding and placing a strip of ham on each cracker adds layers of savory flavor. The ham provides a meaty bite that complements the buttery crackers.
4. Add the Cheese
Cut the Swiss cheese into 1-inch pieces. Place a piece of cheese on top of each ham-covered cracker. Swiss cheese adds a creamy, slightly nutty flavor that melts beautifully over the ham and crackers.
5. Top with Another Cracker
Place another Ritz cracker on top of each piece of cheese to form a mini sandwich. Press down lightly to ensure the crackers stick together.
6. Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Stir well to mix all the ingredients together. This sauce will add a tangy, savory flavor to the sandwiches and help keep them moist.
7. Drizzle the Sauce
Pour the mustard sauce evenly over the cracker sandwiches. Make sure to cover each sandwich well to infuse them with the delicious flavors of the sauce.
8. Add the Toppings
Sprinkle the poppy seeds and dried minced onion evenly over the top of the sandwiches. These add a bit of crunch and extra flavor to the sandwiches, enhancing their overall taste and texture.
9. Bake the Sandwiches
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Bake until the cheese has melted and the tops of the crackers are golden brown. The heat will meld the flavors together and create a crispy, cheesy delight.
10. Serve Warm
Once baked, remove the sandwiches from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm for the best flavor and texture. These mini sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when the cheese is still gooey and the crackers are crispy.
Variations and Substitutions
Cheese Options: While Swiss cheese is a classic choice, you can experiment with other types of cheese such as cheddar, provolone, or mozzarella. Each cheese will bring a unique flavor to the sandwiches.
Meat Alternatives: If ham isn’t your preference, try using turkey, chicken, or roast beef. You can also make a vegetarian version by substituting the meat with thin slices of roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
Spice it Up: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mustard sauce. This will give the sandwiches a spicy kick.
Herbs and Seasonings: Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme can be added to the mustard sauce or sprinkled on top for added flavor and color.
Conclusion
Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches are a delightful and easy appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Their bite-sized nature makes them ideal for parties, where guests can easily grab a few without the need for utensils. The combination of buttery crackers, savory ham, creamy Swiss cheese, and the tangy mustard sauce creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting.
The simplicity of this recipe is one of its greatest strengths. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a dish that looks and tastes impressive. Plus, the recipe is versatile, allowing for numerous variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a casual get-together with friends, or a holiday party, these Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches are sure to be a hit. Their delicious flavor and easy preparation make them a go-to appetizer that you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy the smiles and compliments as your guests savor these delightful mini sandwiches!
