🥪 Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches
These Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches are bite-sized, creamy, cheesy appetizers made with buttery Ritz crackers and a savory filling. They’re quick to assemble, easy to customize, and perfect for parties, game nights, potlucks, and holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Sandwiches
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1 box Ritz crackers
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8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
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½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
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¼ cup finely chopped cooked ham
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¼ cup finely chopped green onions
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2 tablespoons mayonnaise
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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¼ teaspoon paprika
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, optional
Optional Toppings
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Shredded cheddar cheese
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Chopped parsley
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Sliced green onions
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Everything bagel seasoning
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Paprika
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Thin slices of jalapeño
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Small pieces of cooked bacon
Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling
Place the softened cream cheese in a medium bowl.
Add the shredded cheddar, chopped ham, green onions, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika.
Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly combined and the mixture is creamy.
If the mixture seems too thick, add another teaspoon of mayonnaise.
2. Assemble the Sandwiches
Place half of the Ritz crackers on a large plate or baking sheet.
Spoon approximately 1–2 teaspoons of the filling onto each cracker.
Spread the filling gently, leaving a small border around the edge.
Place another Ritz cracker on top and gently press down to create a little sandwich.
Be careful not to press too hard, because Ritz crackers can break easily.
3. Add the Finishing Touches
Arrange the cracker sandwiches on a serving platter.
Sprinkle a little chopped parsley, paprika, or shredded cheese over the top.
For a more festive presentation, place a tiny piece of green onion or parsley on each sandwich.
4. Chill
Refrigerate the sandwiches for about 20–30 minutes before serving.
Chilling helps the filling firm up and makes the sandwiches easier to handle.
🧀 Easy Variations
Turkey & Cheddar
Replace the ham with finely chopped cooked turkey and use sharp cheddar cheese.
Bacon Ranch
Add finely crumbled cooked bacon and ½ teaspoon ranch seasoning to the filling.
Spicy Jalapeño
Add finely chopped pickled jalapeños and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Chicken Salad
Replace the ham with finely chopped cooked chicken. Add a little extra mayonnaise and finely chopped celery.
Vegetarian
Leave out the meat and add finely chopped bell peppers, olives, or cucumber.
⭐ Helpful Tips
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Make sure the cream cheese is softened so the filling mixes smoothly.
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Don’t add too much filling; a thin layer is easier to eat and less likely to squeeze out.
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Assemble shortly before serving for the best cracker texture.
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If preparing ahead, keep them covered and refrigerated.
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For a party, you can prepare the filling several hours in advance and assemble the sandwiches shortly before guests arrive.
🍽️ Serving Idea
Arrange the Ritz cracker sandwiches in a circle around a small bowl of ranch dip, honey mustard, or cheese dip. Add parsley and colorful vegetables around the platter for a simple party appetizer display.
