Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe
Ham and Cheese Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser: warm, gooey, and packed with classic deli flavors nestled between soft, buttery rolls. Whether you’re hosting a game-day bash, a family brunch, or craving an easy yet irresistible dinner, these sliders deliver pure comfort in every bite. The sweet Hawaiian rolls, the savory ham, creamy Swiss cheese, and a tangy-topped buttery glaze come together to create a snack that’s a guaranteed hit. This recipe is genuinely close to my heart; it’s fuss-free, adaptable, and always, always disappears first from any table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed by how simple yet essential these pantry-friendly ingredients are—each one brings a unique touch to the party, whether it’s punchy flavor, creamy texture, or irresistible golden color. Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up Ham and Cheese Sliders everyone will rave about!
- Butter (1/2 cup, melted): Rich, melted butter soaks into the rolls for that golden finish and unbeatable flavor.
- Brown Sugar (2 tablespoons): Adds the perfect hint of sweetness to balance the salty ham and tangy mustard.
- Dijon Mustard (1 tablespoon): Gives the sliders their signature zesty kick—trust me, it makes all the difference.
- Worcestershire Sauce (1 1/2 teaspoons): A dash of umami magic that deepens the overall flavor profile.
- Poppy Seeds (1 tablespoon): Classic on top, these add a subtle crunch and make the sliders look so appetizing.
- Dried Minced Onion (1 tablespoon) or Onion Powder (1 1/2 teaspoons): Brings savory depth—choose what you have on hand for that gentle oniony bite.
- Hawaiian Rolls (1 pound, 24 small or 12 large): These soft, slightly sweet rolls are the secret to the sliders’ pillowy texture.
- Deli Ham (1 pound, thinly sliced): Opt for your favorite variety; smoky or honey ham both work beautifully here.
- Swiss Cheese (1 pound): Melts to creamy perfection and pairs like a dream with ham—don’t skimp!
How to Make Ham and Cheese Sliders
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Start by cranking your oven up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and give it a good coat of cooking spray—this prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze later on. Set your dish aside while you get to work on the rest.
Step 2: Make the Buttery Glaze
In a mixing bowl, stir together the melted butter, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, and your choice of dried minced onion or onion powder. This dazzling combo creates the magic sauce that transforms everyday sliders into something unforgettable—sweet, tangy, and aromatic.
Step 3: Build the Sliders
Carefully slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally to separate the tops from the bottoms—try to keep them connected for easy assembly. Lay the bottom halves in your prepared baking dish. Layer half of the ham evenly across the rolls, then follow with all the Swiss cheese. Top with the remaining ham for extra heartiness.
Step 4: Add the Toppings and Bake
Place the top halves of the rolls over the layers. Give the buttery glaze a good stir and generously pour it over the entire surface of the sliders, ensuring every nook is coated. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes to melt everything together.
Step 5: Final Toast and Serve
After 15 minutes, remove the foil so the tops can get nice and golden. Return to the oven for another 10 minutes—this is when they become truly irresistible. Remove from the oven, slice into individual sliders, and serve immediately for melty, gooey goodness in every bite.
How to Serve Ham and Cheese Sliders
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives right before serving adds a burst of color and freshness, while a light dusting of extra poppy seeds makes them pop even more on the platter. A few thin slices of crisp pickle alongside each slider can cut through the richness with a zesty bite.
Side Dishes
These Ham and Cheese Sliders are crowd-pleasing on their own, but become a full feast with a simple green salad, a cool and creamy coleslaw, or a bowl of kettle chips. If you’re feeling cozy, pair them with a piping hot tomato soup or creamy potato salad for the ultimate comfort meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, arrange the sliders on a big wooden cutting board and surround them with small bowls of dipping sauces—think honey mustard, aioli, or barbecue for variety. You can also serve them skewered with fancy toothpicks for an appetizer spread, or wrap individually in parchment paper for easy grab-and-go servings at picnics or lunchboxes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with a few extra Ham and Cheese Sliders (unlikely, but it happens!), simply cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer the sliders to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making them a fantastic next-day snack or quick lunch solution.
Freezing
These sliders freeze surprisingly well. Let them cool completely, then wrap each individually in foil or parchment and store in a zip-top freezer bag. Pop them in the freezer for up to 2 months. To thaw, just leave them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, unwrap and arrange them on a baking sheet, then warm in a 325-degree oven until the cheese is melty and centers are hot—about 10 to 15 minutes. You can also microwave individual sliders for 30 to 45 seconds, though the oven route will keep those edges delightfully crisp.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Swiss?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is a classic for Ham and Cheese Sliders, you can swap in cheddar, provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky gouda for a new twist. Just choose a cheese that melts well for maximum gooeyness.
Do I have to use Hawaiian rolls?
Hawaiian rolls are famous for their slightly sweet, pillow-soft texture which works wonders in this recipe, but you can use any soft dinner roll you love. Even small brioche or potato rolls are delicious alternatives.
What’s the best type of ham to use?
Any good-quality deli ham works beautifully—even leftover baked ham! Look for thinly sliced varieties, as they layer nicely and heat through quickly for melty, even sliders.
Can I make Ham and Cheese Sliders ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the sliders and pour over the glaze up to a day in advance. Just cover tightly with foil and refrigerate. Before serving, bake as directed, adding an extra couple of minutes to account for starting cold.
How do I keep the sliders from getting soggy?
The key to avoiding soggy sliders is not overdoing the butter sauce and making sure to bake them uncovered for the last 10 minutes, which lets the tops crisp up. Serving them warm right out of the oven also ensures the best texture.
Final Thoughts
If you need a no-fail recipe that brings people together and instantly brightens any table, Ham and Cheese Sliders always deliver. The combination of flavors, ease, and adaptability makes this dish a surefire favorite you’ll return to again and again. Grab your ingredients and give them a whirl—you’ll see why everyone falls in love at first bite!
Print
Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Ham and Cheese Sliders are the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and cheesy flavors all in one delicious bite-sized sandwich. Great for parties, gatherings, or a simple weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
Slider Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 tablespoon dried minced onion (or 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder)
- 1 pound Hawaiian Rolls (24 small or 12 large)
- 1 pound deli ham, thinly sliced
- 1 pound Swiss cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9 by 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
- Mix the butter mixture: In a bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, and dried minced onion.
- Assemble the sliders: Cut the Hawaiian rolls in half and place the bottom halves in the prepared baking dish. Layer with half of the ham, followed by the Swiss cheese, and the remaining ham. Top with the other halves of the rolls.
- Add the butter mixture: Pour the butter mixture over the assembled sliders. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, cut into individual sliders, and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Ham and Cheese Sliders, Sliders recipe, Party food, Hawaiian Rolls, Easy sliders
