These bite-sized beauties are the ultimate crowd-pleasers—crispy, buttery Ritz crackers sandwiching savory ham and melty Swiss cheese, all glazed with a tangy, buttery topping and baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re hosting a game night, holiday gathering, or just need a snack that disappears fast, these mini sandwiches deliver big flavor with minimal effort. Think of them as the lovechild of a slider and a canapé—easy to make, hard to resist.
Ingredients
For the Sandwiches:
- 96 Ritz Crackers (about 2 sleeves)
- ½ lb deli ham, torn into small strips
- ⅓ lb Swiss cheese, cut into 1-inch squares
- Optional: ¼ lb pepperoni or salami for variety
For the Glaze:
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tsp poppy seeds
- 1 tsp dried onion flakes
- Optional: ½ tsp everything bagel seasoning
Optional Garnish:
- Cornichons or mini pickles
- Fresh rosemary or parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two 13×9-inch baking dishes or a large sheet pan with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Assemble the Base Layer
Place 48 Ritz crackers flat side down in the baking dish. These will be the bottom halves of your sandwiches. Make sure they’re evenly spaced and not overlapping.
Step 3: Add the Fillings
Tear the ham into small, foldable strips and place one piece on each cracker. Add a square of Swiss cheese on top of the ham. If you’re feeling extra, layer a slice of pepperoni or salami for a flavor twist.
Step 4: Top and Seal
Place another Ritz cracker on top of each stack, rounded side up, to form a sandwich. Press gently to secure.
Step 5: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, poppy seeds, and onion flakes. If using everything bagel seasoning, add it here for extra crunch and flavor.
Step 6: Glaze the Sandwiches
Using a pastry brush or spoon, evenly coat the tops of the sandwiches with the butter mixture. Make sure each one gets a good dose—this is where the magic happens.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops of the crackers are golden brown. Keep an eye on them—overbaking can make the crackers too crisp and dry.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Optional but festive: thread a halved cornichon onto a toothpick and stick it into each sandwich for a tangy bite and party-ready presentation. Sprinkle fresh herbs around the platter for a pop of color.
🍽️ Tips & Variations
- Make-Ahead: Prep the sandwiches and glaze up to 2 hours ahead. Refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
- Flavor Swaps: Try cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack instead of Swiss. Use turkey or roast beef instead of ham.
- Sweet Twist: Swap the glaze for a mix of melted butter and apricot preserves for a sweet-savory combo.
- Vegetarian Option: Use roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers with cheese instead of meat.
🥳 Serving Suggestions
Serve these warm from the oven with:
- A cheese ball centerpiece
- Crudités and dips
- Sparkling lemonade or mocktails
- Mini pickles, olives, or stuffed peppers
These Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches are the MVP of finger foods—easy to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to vanish from the platter. Want a tropical or sugar-free twist next? I’ve got ideas that’ll keep your snack game strong.