If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that disappears faster than you can say “just one more,” these Baked Ritz Cracker Ham and Cheese Sliders are it. Crispy, buttery Ritz crackers sandwich layers of savory ham and gooey melted cheese, then get baked until golden and irresistible. They’re crunchy on the outside, melty in the middle, and packed with rich, comforting flavor in every bite.
Perfect for game day snacks, holiday appetizers, potluck recipes, or even an easy weeknight comfort food, this recipe is simple, budget-friendly, and wildly customizable. Best of all? No fancy equipment or advanced cooking skills required—just assemble, bake, and watch them vanish.
Ingredients
For the sliders:
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2 boxes Ritz crackers (original flavor works best)
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12–16 slices deli ham (thinly sliced)
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12–16 slices Swiss cheese, provolone, or mozzarella
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½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar (optional, for extra melt)
For the buttery topping:
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon dried parsley
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½ teaspoon paprika
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Build the cracker base
Place Ritz crackers flat in a single layer across the bottom of the dish. You want them snug but not overlapping.
3. Add the filling
Cut ham and cheese slices into cracker-sized pieces. Layer ham on each cracker, followed by cheese. For extra indulgence, sprinkle a little shredded cheese on top.
4. Top it off
Place another Ritz cracker on top of each stack, gently pressing down to create mini sandwiches.
5. Make the butter topping
In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Brush generously
Using a pastry brush or spoon, coat the tops of the crackers with the butter mixture. This is what gives them that golden, bakery-style crunch.
7. Bake to perfection
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 10 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 5–7 minutes, or until the crackers are crisp and the cheese is fully melted.
8. Cool and serve
Let them cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the cheese set slightly and makes them easier to grab.
Pro Tips for Perfect Ritz Cracker Sliders
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Don’t overload the filling or the crackers may slide apart.
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Use thin-sliced deli meat for even melting.
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If crackers brown too fast, tent loosely with foil.
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For extra crunch, toast the bottom layer of crackers for 3 minutes before assembling.
Delicious Variations
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Turkey & Cheddar Sliders – Swap ham for turkey and Swiss for sharp cheddar.
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Pepperoni Pizza Crackers – Add pepperoni slices and mozzarella with a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.
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Jalapeño Popper Style – Cream cheese + cheddar + diced jalapeños.
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Honey Mustard Ham Sliders – Add a thin spread of honey mustard inside each sandwich.
Storage and Reheating
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to keep them crispy.
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Avoid microwaving if possible—it softens the crackers.
Related Questions (High-CPM SEO Keywords)
Can I make Ritz cracker sliders ahead of time?
Yes! These are perfect make-ahead appetizers. Assemble them up to 12 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Brush with butter just before baking for best results.
Are Ritz cracker sliders good for parties?
Absolutely. These are one of the best easy party food ideas because they’re handheld, mess-free, and universally loved. Ideal for Super Bowl snacks, holiday entertaining, and family gatherings.
What cheese melts best for cracker sliders?
Swiss, provolone, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack are top choices. These are commonly searched best melting cheeses for appetizers and provide a smooth, stretchy texture.
Can I make this recipe without meat?
Yes! For a vegetarian appetizer recipe, skip the ham and use a combination of cheeses, caramelized onions, or sautéed mushrooms.
How do I keep Ritz crackers from getting soggy?
Use minimal butter inside the sandwich and apply the butter topping only on the outside. Baking uncovered at the end ensures maximum crispiness—key for crispy baked snack recipes.
Why This Recipe Works
These baked Ritz cracker sliders hit every comfort-food note: buttery crunch, savory filling, and melty cheese. They’re inexpensive, scalable for crowds, and customizable for different diets—making them a top contender among high-engagement appetizer recipes and family-friendly snack ideas.
