These Ham and Swiss Cracker Melts are my secret weapon when I need a fast, easy snack or appetizer that people will rave about. Imagine buttery crackers sandwiching savory ham and gooey melted Swiss cheese, all topped with a flavorful butter mixture—what’s not to love? I brought these to a party once, and let’s just say, I didn’t bring any home. They were gone in minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Perfect for when you need something fast but impressive.
- Savory & Cheesy: Swiss cheese, ham, and buttery crackers are a flavor match made in heaven.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Great for parties, game nights, or even a fun snack for the kids.
Ingredients
- 48 Ritz Crackers (1 bag)
- 8 slices deli ham, torn into small pieces
- 8 slices Swiss cheese, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
- ½ teaspoon dried minced onion
Variations
- Change Up the Cheese: Swap the Swiss for cheddar, provolone, or any cheese you love.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter mixture for a little heat.
- Turkey & Cheddar: Try turkey and cheddar instead for a different take.
How to Make the Recipe
- Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Assemble the Crackers: Place half of the Ritz crackers flat side down in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top each cracker with a small piece of ham and a square of Swiss cheese, then sandwich with another Ritz cracker.
- Prepare the Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder.
- Pour the Butter Mixture: Drizzle the butter mixture evenly over the cracker sandwiches.
- Add the Toppings: Sprinkle the poppy seeds and dried minced onion on top.
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the crackers are golden brown.
- Serve: Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve
- As a Snack or Appetizer: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or game nights.
- With Soup: Pair with tomato or creamy potato soup for a cozy meal.
- Quick Lunch: Makes for a fun and delicious lunch option.
Make Ahead
- Fridge: Assemble the cracker sandwiches and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.
- Freezer: Freeze assembled sandwiches before baking. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
FAQs
- Can I use a different type of cracker? Yes, any buttery cracker will work, but Ritz crackers are ideal.
- Do I have to use Swiss cheese? No, you can use any cheese you prefer.
- How do I keep the crackers from getting soggy? Use a light coating of the butter mixture to avoid sogginess.
These Ham and Swiss Cracker Melts are the ultimate quick snack or party appetizer. They’re cheesy, savory, and absolutely delicious. Once you make these, I guarantee they’ll become a regular in your snack rotation. Enjoy!