**Introduction**
Ham and Swiss Cracker Melts are a delightful, bite-sized snack perfect for any gathering or casual get-together. They bring together savory ham, creamy Swiss cheese, and crispy crackers, all enhanced with a rich, buttery Dijon mustard sauce. This quick and easy recipe offers a balanced combination of flavors and textures, making it a crowd-pleaser at parties or a delicious snack option at home.
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**Ingredients**
– 48 Ritz crackers
– 8 slices of deli ham
– 8 slices of Swiss cheese
– 4 tablespoons butter, melted
– 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon dried minced onion
**Instructions**
1. **Preheat the Oven**:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Assemble the Crackers**:
Place 24 Ritz crackers, flat side down, in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. **Prepare the Ham and Cheese**:
Tear each ham slice into smaller strips, folding them to fit neatly onto each cracker. Cut the Swiss cheese into 1-inch squares and place a piece on top of the ham-covered crackers. Top each with another cracker, forming small sandwiches.
4. **Prepare the Butter Mixture**:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder.
5. **Apply the Butter Mixture**:
Evenly pour the butter mixture over the cracker sandwiches, making sure each cracker is well-coated.
6. **Add Toppings**:
Sprinkle poppy seeds and minced onion over the sandwiches for added flavor and texture.
7. **Bake**:
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the tops of the crackers are golden brown.
8. **Serve**:
Serve the cracker melts warm, fresh from the oven, and enjoy!
**Methodology**
– **Choice of Ingredients**:
Ritz crackers provide a buttery, crispy base that complements the savory ham and creamy Swiss cheese. The butter-Dijon glaze adds a tangy richness that binds all the elements together.
– **Assembly**:
The recipe is designed to be simple, allowing each component to shine. The key to success is to layer the ham and cheese carefully, ensuring even distribution for a balanced bite.
– **Baking Process**:
Baking the cracker sandwiches melts the Swiss cheese to perfection, while the poppy seeds and minced onions provide a delightful crunch and extra flavor contrast.
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**History**
Ham and cheese as a combination dates back centuries and has been enjoyed in various forms, from sandwiches to casseroles. The Swiss cheese and ham duo became a popular choice in American households in the mid-20th century, while Ritz crackers, introduced in 1934, quickly became a pantry staple. This recipe combines the classic ham and cheese pairing with a modern twist, using the crackers as a crispy, bite-sized base.
**Benefits**
– **Quick and Easy**: This recipe can be made in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute snacks or appetizers.
– **Balanced Flavor**: The combination of ham, Swiss cheese, and the buttery mustard glaze offers a balanced mix of savory, tangy, and rich flavors.
– **Kid-Friendly**: The small size and familiar flavors make these cracker melts a hit with children, while adults appreciate their satisfying taste.
– **Nutritional Value**: While indulgent, these cracker melts provide protein from the ham and cheese, and calcium from the Swiss cheese.
**Formation and Creation**
This recipe was likely inspired by the desire for quick, easy, and delicious snacks that pack a lot of flavor in a small bite. With the convenience of Ritz crackers and the rich, melting quality of Swiss cheese, it captures a blend of nostalgia and modern cooking. The buttery glaze adds a touch of elegance to an otherwise simple recipe, elevating it from a basic snack to a more sophisticated appetizer.
**Lovers of Ham and Swiss Cracker Melts**
This recipe is perfect for:
– **Party-goers**: These bite-sized delights are ideal for sharing at parties or get-togethers.
– **Kids**: The simple flavors and fun presentation make these crackers a favorite among younger eaters.
– **Cheese Enthusiasts**: The creamy, melted Swiss cheese satisfies those who appreciate rich, cheesy bites.
– **Busy Hosts**: With minimal preparation and cooking time, these melts are perfect for entertaining without stress.
**Nutritional Information** (Per Serving)
– **Calories**: ~120-150 kcal
– **Protein**: ~6g
– **Fat**: ~10g
– **Carbohydrates**: ~8g
– **Fiber**: <1g
– **Sodium**: ~220mg
(Values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.)
**Conclusion**
Ham and Swiss Cracker Melts are the perfect combination of ease and flavor. Whether you're hosting a party, making an after-school snack, or looking for a tasty bite to satisfy your cravings, this recipe delivers. The golden, crispy crackers, combined with savory ham and melted cheese, will leave you reaching for more. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, these melts are sure to become a household favorite.