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Ham and Swiss Cracker Melts Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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