Savory Ham and Swiss Cracker Melts: The Ultimate Party Snack
When it comes to satisfying your guests at a party, it’s essential to have something that’s not only delicious but also easy to make. Enter Ham and Swiss Cracker Melts—a perfect combination of savory deli ham, creamy Swiss cheese, and buttery Ritz crackers. These bite-sized sandwiches are an absolute crowd-pleaser, ideal for a variety of occasions such as family gatherings, game-day parties, or casual get-togethers. The melt-in-your-mouth cheese, the satisfying crunch of the crackers, and the perfect balance of flavors from the Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce make this recipe irresistible. And the best part? They come together in just 20 minutes, requiring only a few simple ingredients. It’s the perfect dish for anyone who loves tasty finger foods that are easy to prepare but deliver big on flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 48 Ritz crackers
- 8 slices of deli ham
- 8 slices of Swiss cheese
- 4 tablespoons of butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of poppy seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried minced onion
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your melts bake evenly and the cheese melts beautifully.
- Assemble Crackers: Take 24 Ritz crackers and arrange them flat side down in a 9×13-inch baking dish. These will be the base of your cracker melts, providing a crisp, buttery foundation for the filling.
- Add Ham and Cheese: Tear the deli ham slices into small strips and place one strip on top of each cracker. Then, cut the Swiss cheese into small 1-inch squares and place one piece on top of the ham. This will create a perfect stack of savory ham and cheese atop each cracker.
- Top with Another Cracker: To form mini sandwiches, place a second Ritz cracker on top of the ham and cheese, pressing lightly to secure it. This simple layering method ensures that each melt stays together when baking.
- Prepare the Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Stir well until everything is fully combined. This flavorful butter mixture will soak into the crackers and melt into the cheese, creating a savory glaze that adds depth to the flavor.
- Pour the Butter Mixture: Pour the butter mixture evenly over the top of the assembled cracker sandwiches. Make sure each sandwich is generously covered to ensure that the crackers soak up the flavor.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the poppy seeds and minced onion evenly over the top of the crackers. These toppings add a bit of crunch and a savory, slightly sweet flavor that complements the richness of the ham and cheese.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crackers are golden brown. The heat will melt the cheese, creating a gooey, savory filling inside each mini sandwich, while the crackers crisp up nicely, providing a delightful crunch.
- Serve: Once the Ham and Swiss Cracker Melts are golden and bubbly, remove them from the oven. Allow them to cool for a few minutes, then serve them warm. They are best enjoyed right away, as the cheese will still be wonderfully gooey and the crackers will maintain their crunch.
Notes
- Cheese: While Swiss cheese is a classic choice for these melts, you can substitute other cheeses depending on what you prefer. Sharp cheddar will add a more intense flavor, while mozzarella will provide a milder, meltier experience. Provolone is also a great option for those who prefer a slightly tangy cheese.
- Ham: If you’re not a fan of ham or if you want to try something different, you can swap it out for turkey, chicken, or even roast beef. If you’re looking for a more decadent option, add some crispy bacon to the mix for a smoky, flavorful twist.
- Crackers: While Ritz crackers are perfect for this recipe, you can experiment with other buttery crackers, such as Town House or even a whole-grain option for a slightly different texture. If you prefer a lower-carb version, you could use almond flour crackers or another keto-friendly option.
- Herbs and Seasonings: Add more depth to the flavor by sprinkling in some dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also be added after baking for a burst of freshness. If you want a spicier version, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the butter mixture.