Creative Cheese and Cracker Appetizer Bites

Who doesn't love cheese and crackers? Putting together a cheese and cracker appetizer tray can be really simple way to create an elegant, appetizer that everyone will love. Whether you are looking for easy nibblers for your family to enjoy while watching a football game or you want to come up with a creative dish for a potluck meal, cheese and crackers can be a great solution for you.

Cheeseboard With Crackers

I love to create a beautifully presented cheeseboard with crackers for special occasions. I have a nice bamboo cheeseboard that makes an attractive serving dish. I simply arrange a combination of different varieties of cubed cheese, white and red seedless grapes, and sliced apples on the board. I place a tray or bowl with different types of crackers beside the bowl and let guests create their own favorite combinations.

All types of hard and semi-soft cheeses work well for cheeseboard spreads, including:

• Brie
• Cheddar
• Colby
• Havarti
• Monterey Jack
• Swiss
• Many other varietes

For large events, I use a Wilton Armetale serving tray instead of the cheeseboard. The metal dish is perfect for this type of appetizer tray, because it holds temperature. I usually place it in the freezer for 30 minutes or so before covering it with cheese and fruit. The tray stays cold and keeps the food chilled perfectly. I put the crackers on a separate tray when I do this.

Hot Cheese and Cracker Bites

There are many ways you can prepare warm cheese and cracker appetizers. I always think of these treats as healthier alternatives to nachos!

Cooking Instructions

Place your favorite crackers covered with your choice of toppings (see ideas below) on an oven safe pan and bake in an oven that has been preheated to 300 degrees for 5 to 10 minutes.

Topping Suggestions:

Beef 'N Cheddar: Sliced Deli Roast Beef and sliced cheddar cheese

Ham ‘N Swiss: Sliced Deli Ham and sliced Swiss cheese, garnish with a dollop of brown mustard after baking

Italian Delight: Sliced Deli Pastrami and sliced Provolone cheese, top after baking with a sliced Peperoncini pepper or diced black olives

Pizza Bites: Spread cracker with pizza sauce and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and pepperoni before baking

Reuben: Sliced Deli Corned Beef and sliced Swiss cheese, top with a bit of thousand island dressing after baking

Smoky Turkey: Sliced Deli Smoked Turkey and smoked cheddar cheese

Tuna Melt: Your favorite tuna salad topped with sliced cheddar cheese (use Triscuits for this one!)