These Baked Ham & Cheese Ritz Cracker Bites are the perfect easy appetizer—crispy, cheesy, buttery, and packed with savory flavor. They come together in minutes using simple ingredients: Ritz crackers, deli ham, shredded cheese, and a creamy herb topping. They bake up golden and bubbling, making them ideal for parties, holidays, game day, or a quick family snack. Just assemble, top, bake, and enjoy the irresistible crunch and melty goodness.
Ingredients
Base
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40 Ritz crackers
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20 thin slices deli ham (cut into small squares or folded)
Cheese Mixture
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1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack
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½ cup shredded cheddar (optional for extra flavor)
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4 oz cream cheese, softened
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2 tbsp butter, melted
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp dried parsley (or Italian seasoning)
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½ tsp black pepper
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¼ tsp onion powder (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cracker Stacks
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Line a baking dish or sheet with parchment paper.
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Place 20 Ritz crackers in a single layer, salted side down.
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Add a folded piece of ham on each cracker.
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Place another Ritz cracker on topto create mini sandwiches.
2. Make the Cheesy Topping
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In a medium bowl, mix together:
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cream cheese
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melted butter
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mozzarella (and cheddar if using)
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garlic powder
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parsley or Italian seasoning
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black pepper
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Stir until fully combined and spreadable.
3. Top the Crackers
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Spoon a generous amount of the cheese mixture on top of each cracker bite.
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Make sure the tops are well covered — this will create the golden, bubbly crust seen in the picture.
4. Bake
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Place the dish in the preheated oven.
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Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the tops are golden, melted, and slightly crisp.
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Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve warm with honey mustard, ranch, or spicy mayo.
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Great for parties, brunch tables, kids’ snacks, or holiday trays.
These Baked Ham & Cheese Ritz Cracker Bites are simple to make yet incredibly delicious. The combination of buttery crackers, savory ham, and creamy melted cheese creates an addictive appetizer that everyone will love. They’re quick, customizable, and perfect anytime you need a crowd-pleasing bite. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven and watch them disappear fast.