(Makes 48–60 mini sandwiches)
- 2 (8 oz) sleeves Ritz crackers (regular or buttery rounds)
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1½ cups finely chopped cooked ham (or roast beef, chicken, or cucumber for variety)
- 2–3 tbsp mayonnaise or sour cream (for creaminess)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard or sweet pickle relish (optional, for tang)
- Pinch of black pepper
- Optional garnish: Fresh chives, paprika, or a tiny cornichon slice
💡 Pro Tips:
- Use cold ham—it’s easier to chop finely.
- Soften cream cheese to room temp for smooth blending.
- Assemble just before serving—Ritz soften quickly!
Step-by-Step Instructions (Effortless & Elegant)
1. Make the Filling
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Add mayonnaise/sour cream, mustard/relish, and pepper. Mix well.
- Fold in finely chopped ham until evenly distributed.
2. Assemble the Sandwiches
- Lay out half the Ritz crackers on a serving platter or tray.
- Top each with ½–1 tsp of filling (don’t overfill!).
- Gently press a second Ritz cracker on top to make a “sandwich.”
- Optional: Garnish with a tiny chive, pinch of paprika, or micro green.
3. Serve Immediately
- Arrange on a tiered tray or pretty plate.
- Serve within 1–2 hours for best texture (Ritz soften as they sit).
Delicious Variations to Try
- Chicken Salad: Swap ham for chopped chicken + grapes + celery
- Pimento Cheese: Use pimento cheese spread + pickled jalapeño
- Vegetarian: Cucumber + herbed cream cheese + dill
- Smoked Salmon: Cream cheese + smoked salmon + capers + red onion
- Reuben Style: Corned beef + sauerkraut + Swiss + Russian dressing
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Filling: Can be made 1–2 days ahead; store covered in fridge.
- Assembled sandwiches: Best served fresh—but if needed, assemble up to 2 hours ahead and keep loosely covered at cool room temp.
- Do not refrigerate assembled sandwiches—Ritz absorb moisture and turn soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use gluten-free crackers?
A: Yes! Look for GF buttery round crackers (like Good Thins or homemade).
Q: My filling is too thick—what do I do?
A: Add 1 tsp milk or lemon juice to loosen.
Q: Can I freeze these?
A: No—crackers lose crispness. But filling freezes well for up to 1 month.
Q: How many per person?
A: Plan for 4–6 per guest at a party with other appetizers.
A Little Bite with Big Impact
Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches aren’t fancy—but they don’t need to be. They’re proof that generosity and simplicity make the best hosts. Whether you’re celebrating a new baby, honoring a bride, or just gathering friends for laughter, these tiny sandwiches say: “You’re welcome here.”
So soften that cream cheese, chop that ham, and stack with care. Because sometimes, the most memorable moments come on a buttery little cracker.
Did your family serve these at showers or holidays? Do you go classic ham or try a twist?
Share your tradition in the comments! And if this recipe brought back a cherished memory—or saved your next gathering—pass it on to someone who believes in the magic of simple, thoughtful hospitality. 🥪✨💛
