Ham and Swiss Cracker Melts Recipe

Introduction

These Ham and Swiss Cracker Melts are a delicious and easy appetizer perfect for gatherings or a savory snack. Crispy Ritz crackers sandwich tender ham and melted Swiss cheese, all topped with a flavorful butter glaze and seasonings.

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. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: Arrange half of the Ritz crackers (24 crackers) in a 9×13-inch baking dish, flat side down.
3. Step 3: Tear the ham slices into small strips and place a piece on top of each cracker.
4. Step 4: Cut the Swiss cheese into small, 1-inch squares and place one piece on top of the ham.
5. Step 5: Top each with another Ritz cracker to form mini sandwiches.
6. Step 6: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Stir well.
7. Step 7: Pour the butter mixture evenly over the top of the cracker sandwiches.
8. Step 8: Sprinkle the poppy seeds and dried minced onion evenly over the crackers.
9. Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the cracker tops are golden brown.
10. Step 10: Serve the cracker melts warm and enjoy as a savory snack or appetizer!

Tips & Variations

• Use sharp Swiss cheese for a stronger flavor or substitute with Gruyère for a nutty twist.
• Add a thin slice of pickle or a small dollop of honey mustard inside the sandwich for extra zing.
• For a spicier version, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking.
• Make sure to use fresh crackers to keep them crispy and prevent sogginess.

Storage

Store leftover cracker melts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the cracker melts and refrigerate them unbaked for a few hours before baking. Just add the butter mixture and toppings right before baking for best results.

What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?

You can substitute with any buttery, flaky crackers like Club or Saltines, but Ritz crackers work best for the signature flavor and texture.

Ham and Swiss Cracker Melts Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 60 reviews

Ham and Swiss Cracker Melts are delightful mini sandwich bites perfect as savory snacks or appetizers. Layers of ham and melting Swiss cheese are sandwiched between buttery Ritz crackers, topped with a flavorful butter mixture infused with Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, poppy seeds, and minced onion, then baked until golden and bubbly.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 48 cracker melts 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cracker Sandwiches

• 48 Ritz crackers
• 8 slices deli ham
• 8 slices Swiss cheese

Butter Mixture & Toppings

• 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) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the cracker melts evenly.
2. Assemble Crackers: Arrange half of the Ritz crackers (24 crackers) in a 9×13-inch baking dish with the flat side down to create a stable base for the mini sandwiches.
3. Add Ham and Cheese: Tear the deli ham slices into small strips and place one piece on top of each cracker in the dish. Cut the Swiss cheese into approximately 1-inch squares and place one square on top of the ham, layering the flavors beautifully.
4. Top with Crackers: Place another Ritz cracker on top of each ham and cheese stack to form mini sandwich melts that will crisp up in the oven.
5. Prepare the Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Stir well to evenly incorporate all the flavors.
6. Apply Butter Mixture: Pour the prepared butter mixture evenly over the top layer of crackers. This will soak slightly into the crackers and add a rich, tangy taste as they bake.
7. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the poppy seeds and minced dried onion evenly over the buttered crackers, adding an aromatic crunch to the bites.
8. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese has melted thoroughly and the cracker tops are golden brown and crispy.
9. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the cracker melts warm for the best taste experience. They make fantastic savory snacks or appetizers for any occasion.

Notes

• Use fresh Swiss cheese slices for better melting and flavor.
• For extra zest, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the butter mixture.
• Serve immediately after baking to enjoy the crispy texture.
• Can be made ahead and assembled, then baked just before serving.
• Substitute Ritz crackers with another buttery cracker if preferred.

Keywords: Ham and Swiss Cracker Melts, appetizer, snack, cheesy cracker melts, Ritz crackers, easy party food