Baked Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches

These Baked Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches are a quick, cheesy, bite-sized appetizer that’s perfect for parties, game nights, potlucks, and family gatherings. Buttery Ritz crackers are layered with savory ham and melted cheese, then brushed with a flavorful butter topping and baked until warm and golden.

Ingredients

• 2 sleeves Ritz crackers
• 8 oz (225 g) sliced deli ham
• 8 oz (225 g) sliced Swiss or cheddar cheese
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• 1 teaspoon dried onion flakes
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Build the Sandwiches

Arrange half of the Ritz crackers in the bottom of the baking dish, with the flat side facing down.

Cut or fold the ham into pieces that fit comfortably on top of each cracker.

Place a small piece of ham over every cracker.

Add a piece of cheese over the ham.

Top each one with another Ritz cracker, creating little cracker sandwiches.

3. Make the Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together:

• Melted butter
• Dijon mustard
• Worcestershire sauce
• Poppy seeds
• Dried onion
• Garlic powder
• Dried parsley
• Black pepper

Mix until everything is well combined.

4. Pour Over the Sandwiches

Slowly drizzle the butter mixture over the tops of the cracker sandwiches.

Use a pastry brush or the back of a spoon to distribute it evenly.

Try to get some of the buttery mixture around the edges as well.

5. Bake

Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil.

Bake for 10 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake for another 5–8 minutes, until the cheese is completely melted and the crackers are lightly golden.

Keep a close eye on them during the final minutes so the crackers don’t burn.

6. Cool Slightly

Remove the sandwiches from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes.

This allows the cheese to settle slightly and makes them easier to pick up.

Serve warm.

Tips for the Best Party Sandwiches

Don’t oversoak the crackers: Pour the butter mixture evenly rather than flooding the dish.

Use thinly sliced ham: It fits neatly between the crackers and warms quickly.

Try different cheeses: Swiss gives a classic flavor, while cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack offer delicious alternatives.

Cover first, then uncover: The foil helps heat the sandwiches without immediately over-browning the crackers.

Serve warm: They’re at their best while the cheese is still gooey.

Easy Variations

Turkey & Swiss

Replace the ham with sliced turkey.

Roast Beef & Provolone

Use thinly sliced roast beef and provolone for a richer version.

Ham & Pepper Jack

Use ham with pepper jack cheese and add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the butter mixture.

Pizza Party Sandwiches

Replace the ham with pepperoni, use mozzarella, and add Italian seasoning.

Chicken & Cheddar

Use finely sliced cooked chicken and sharp cheddar.

Make-Ahead Option

You can assemble the cracker sandwiches several hours before baking.

Cover the dish and refrigerate.

Prepare the butter mixture separately and drizzle it over the sandwiches just before baking.

Because the crackers can soften if they sit in the butter mixture too long, it’s best to add the topping shortly before they go into the oven.

Serving Ideas

These little sandwiches are perfect alongside:

• Pickles
• Potato chips
• Vegetable trays
• Coleslaw
• Pasta salad
• Fresh fruit
• Dipping sauces

Buttery Ritz crackers, savory ham, gooey melted cheese, and a flavorful mustard-Worcestershire topping make these bite-sized party sandwiches incredibly easy to prepare and dangerously easy to eat.