Buttery Ritz Ham Sandwiches

Buttery Ritz Ham Sandwiches are a quick and flavorful snack or appetizer made with layers of savory deli ham and melty cheese nestled between buttery Ritz crackers. These bite-sized sandwiches are topped with a seasoned butter glaze and baked until golden and crisp. Whether you’re planning a party, packing a lunchbox, or just craving something warm and satisfying, these sandwiches are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to assemble and bake
• Sweet, savory, and buttery flavor in every bite
• Great for parties, potlucks, and after-school snacks
• Customizable with different meats and cheeses
• Kid-friendly and adult-approved

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ritz crackers
• Deli ham (thinly sliced)
• Swiss cheese (thinly sliced)
• Butter
• Dijon mustard
• Worcestershire sauce
• Onion powder
• Poppy seeds

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place half of the Ritz crackers (flat side up) on the baking sheet.
3. Fold or cut the ham and cheese into small pieces to fit the crackers.
4. Place a piece of ham and a piece of cheese on each cracker.
5. Top with the remaining crackers to form sandwiches.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, and poppy seeds.
7. Spoon or brush the butter mixture over the tops of the cracker sandwiches.
8. Bake for 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and crackers are golden.
9. Let cool slightly and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 24 mini sandwiches
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Swaps: Use cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack for a different flavor
• Different Meats: Try turkey, roast beef, or even salami instead of ham
• Sweet Glaze: Add a bit of honey or maple syrup to the butter mixture for a sweet-savory twist
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham and use sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers instead

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes or in a toaster oven until warmed through
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the crackers can become soggy when thawed

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the sandwiches and store them covered in the fridge. Add the butter topping and bake just before serving.

Do I have to use Swiss cheese?

No, you can substitute any cheese you like—cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack all work well.

Can I use honey mustard instead of Dijon?

Yes, honey mustard adds a sweeter note and is a great alternative.

Are these good served cold?

They’re best served warm, but they can be eaten cold if needed for a lunchbox or picnic.

What’s the best way to keep them warm for a party?

Keep them in a warm oven (around 200°F) until ready to serve.

Can I make them without poppy seeds?

Absolutely. The poppy seeds are optional and can be left out.

Will the crackers get soggy?

If served fresh and not overbaked, the crackers stay crisp. Avoid storing them for long after baking to prevent sogginess.

Can I use flavored Ritz crackers?

Yes, flavors like garlic butter or whole wheat Ritz add a fun twist.

What’s a good dipping sauce for these?

They pair well with honey mustard, ranch, or a creamy Dijon dip.

Can I use shredded cheese instead of sliced?

You can, but sliced cheese fits better and melts more evenly without spilling out.

Conclusion

Buttery Ritz Ham Sandwiches are a fast, delicious solution for entertaining or snacking. With their crisp cracker base, savory ham and cheese center, and a buttery seasoned glaze, these sandwiches are bound to be devoured in no time. Keep this simple recipe on hand for your next gathering or when you need a warm and satisfying snack.

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