Go Back

Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches

Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches are easy no-bake appetizers made with buttery crackers and a creamy, cheesy filling of cream cheese, mayonnaise, cheddar, red and green bell peppers, garlic powder, and black pepper. Chill briefly before serving these colorful, crunchy bites at holiday gatherings, potlucks, game days, and family parties.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 20 sandwich crackers
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Calories: 100
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 packets Ritz crackers (about 40–50 crackers)
  • 7 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup green bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • salt, to taste if needed

Equipment

  • mixing bowl For combining the cream cheese, mayonnaise, cheese, peppers, and seasonings.
  • mixing spoon or spatula For mixing the filling until smooth.
  • knife For finely dicing the red and green bell peppers.
  • cutting board For preparing the bell peppers.
  • Cheese grater For grating the cheddar cheese.
  • measuring cups and spoons For measuring the filling ingredients and seasonings.
  • Serving tray For assembling and serving the cracker sandwiches.
  • Airtight container For refrigerating leftovers or storing the filling before assembly.

Method
 

  1. Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature so it's easier to mix. Finely dice the red and green bell peppers, grate the cheddar cheese, and measure the mayonnaise and seasonings. Arrange the Ritz crackers nearby so you're ready to assemble the sandwiches.
  2. Place the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise in a mixing bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy, with no large lumps of cream cheese remaining. Add the grated cheddar, diced red and green bell peppers, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until everything is evenly distributed. Taste the filling and add a little salt if needed.
  3. Arrange half of the Ritz crackers on a clean tray with the flat side facing up. Spoon a small amount of the creamy filling onto each cracker and spread it gently, leaving a little space around the edges. Place another cracker on top of each filled cracker and press lightly to create a sandwich. Be gentle so the crackers stay whole and the filling doesn't squeeze out too much.
  4. Arrange the finished sandwiches on a serving tray and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to help the filling firm up. This makes them easier to handle and gives the flavors a little time to come together. Serve them chilled or slightly cool. For the crunchiest crackers, assemble them shortly before serving and avoid leaving them in the refrigerator for too long before your gathering.

Notes

Soften the cream cheese at room temperature for easier mixing. Finely dice the bell peppers and grate the cheddar. Mix the cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth before adding the remaining filling ingredients. Spread a modest amount of filling onto each cracker and press the top cracker gently into place to avoid breaking it. Refrigerate the assembled sandwiches for 20–30 minutes to firm the filling, but assemble close to serving time for the crunchiest crackers. The filling can be prepared up to one day ahead and refrigerated separately. Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within 1–2 days. Do not leave them at room temperature for more than two hours.