Description
This easy and cheesy snack is a quick and delightful appetizer perfect for any occasion. Featuring a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses seasoned with garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper, these baked cheese crackers are warm, gooey, and bursting with flavor. Ready in just 13 minutes, they make an ideal kid-friendly snack or party bite that’s simple to prepare and sure to please any cheese lover.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Bases & Garnish
- 12 round buttery crackers (like Ritz)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Mix Cheese and Spices: In a small bowl, combine shredded cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly throughout the cheeses.
- Assemble the Crackers: Spoon about a heaping tablespoon of the cheese mixture onto each cracker. Gently press down to ensure the cheese adheres well to the cracker base.
- Bake: Place the prepared crackers on the lined baking sheet and bake for 6–8 minutes until the cheese melts, bubbles, and begins to brown slightly.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove from oven and let cool for 2 minutes to allow the cheese to crisp slightly. If desired, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top as a fresh garnish before serving.
- Serve Warm: Serve immediately to enjoy the snack at its melty, cheesy best. These also reheat well in a toaster oven.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute other cheeses like pepper jack or gouda to vary the flavor.
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
- Best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but leftovers can be reheated in a toaster oven to restore crispness.
