If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing finger food that’s just as welcome at a game day feast as it is at a lazy Sunday brunch, these Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders are truly unbeatable. Soft, buttery rolls cradle savory black forest ham and creamy, melty Havarti cheese, all bathed in a tangy, buttery poppy seed topping that toasts delectably in the oven. They’re impossible to resist and always the first thing to disappear at any gathering, making this recipe your new go-to for simple, shareable comfort.

Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders is just how approachable the ingredient list is. Each pick is purposeful: from the cloud-like rolls to the pop of poppy seeds, every component brings flavor and texture together into bite-sized bliss.

Hawaiian Savory Butter Rolls (12 count): These sweet, fluffy rolls make the perfect slider foundation and toast up golden and tender.
Black Forest Ham (12 slices): Rich, smoky ham adds protein and deep savory notes to every bite.
Havarti Cheese (6 slices): Havarti melts beautifully, creating creamy ribbons throughout the sliders and balancing the saltiness of the ham.
Salted Butter (4 tbsp): Melted and brushed over the tops, it ensures maximum flavor and a perfect golden finish.
Dijon Mustard (1 tsp): For a sharp, tangy boost that cuts through the richness of the cheese and ham.
Worcestershire Sauce (1/4 tsp, optional): A dash adds savory, umami depth to the buttery topping.
Onion Powder (1/4 tsp, optional): Infuses a subtle, sweet onion flavor without overpowering the main ingredients.
Poppy Seeds (1 tbsp): These tiny seeds add a nutty crunch and classic look to your sliders.

How to Make Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders

Step 1: Prep the Rolls and Pan

Start by slicing your whole pack of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping that lovely grid of connected rolls intact. Lift off the top section and set it aside for now. Place the bottom half into a greased 9×12 baking dish; this prevents sticking and helps the sliders lift out easily when they’re golden and gooey.

Step 2: Stack on the Ham and Havarti

Evenly layer each roll base with one slice of black forest ham and then top with half a slice of Havarti cheese. This ensures you get a meaty, cheesy combo in every single bite. Don’t be shy—let those edges hang over a bit for extra crispy, cheesy bits!

Step 3: Make and Brush the Buttery Topping

Melt the salted butter in a microwave-safe bowl (thirty seconds usually does the trick), then stir in the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, and poppy seeds. This fragrant, luscious mixture is the flavor secret! Gently place the top half of your rolls back on, then brush the entire surface generously with your butter-poppy seed mixture, making sure it drips into every crevice.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the sliders loosely with foil and bake at 350 degrees for about fifteen minutes. This helps all that ham and Havarti cheese get irresistibly melty. Then, remove the foil and bake an additional five minutes until the tops are golden brown and the kitchen smells like heaven. Slice along the original lines and serve warm—you’ve just created slider magic!

How to Serve Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders

Garnishes

While these sliders shine on their own, finishing them with a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or parsley right before serving adds a pop of color and a whisper of freshness that complements the rich flavors. A light dusting of extra poppy seeds or a tiny drizzle of honey-mustard on the side can also make them extra special.

Side Dishes

Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders are wonderfully versatile alongside all kinds of sides. Serve them with a crisp green salad, bowls of potato chips, creamy coleslaw, or a platter of roasted veggies. If it’s a heartier meal you’re after, pair with sweet potato fries or a chunky tomato soup—your guests will thank you!

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, arrange your sliders on a wooden board with toothpicks stuck into each one for easy grabbing. Stagger them in a checkerboard pattern for eye-catching effect, or surround them with bowls of dipping sauces like tangy honey mustard or creamy ranch. For brunch, serve with mini pickles or olives on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (a rare occasion!), simply wrap the cooled Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container. Pop them in the fridge, where they’ll stay tasty for up to 3 days, ready for a quick lunch or snack.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze these sliders! Assemble them as usual, but stop before baking. Wrap the unbaked, fully assembled sliders tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed—extra handy for party prep ahead of time.

Reheating

To reheat, place the sliders back in a 350 degree oven for 10-12 minutes, covered loosely with foil to prevent over-browning. For just a slider or two, a quick pop in the toaster oven or even the microwave works in a pinch—just note the bread will be softer, but the flavors will still shine.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese instead of Havarti?

Absolutely! While Havarti melts like a dream, Swiss, provolone, or even cheddar work beautifully here. Just make sure to choose a cheese that melts well for that delicious gooey factor.

Do I have to use Hawaiian rolls?

Hawaiian rolls are especially soft and slightly sweet, but any small dinner roll will do the trick if that’s what you have. The goal is a tender bun that hugs the filling without competing with it.

Are Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders good served at room temperature?

Yes! These sliders are fantastic fresh out of the oven, but they’re equally delicious at room temp. That makes them a perfect party or picnic food with no stress about perfect timing.

What’s the secret to getting the tops golden and not soggy?

The golden rule is not to oversaturate the tops with butter and to remove the foil for the last few minutes of baking. This lets the rolls crisp up and develop that irresistible crust without getting mushy.

How can I make them spicier?

If you love a little kick, add a splash of hot sauce to the butter mixture or layer thinly sliced jalapeños inside the sliders before baking. It’s an easy way to put a fiery twist on the classic Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders!

Final Thoughts

There’s just something special about sharing Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders with friends and family—they’re warm, satisfying, and full of comforting flavors. Whether you’re gathering for a special occasion or just a cozy weeknight, I hope this recipe brings joy (and second helpings) to your table. Give these sliders a try, and watch them become a favorite in your own home!

Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 11 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 12 sliders 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders are the perfect combination of savory ham, creamy Havarti cheese, and a buttery topping, all nestled in sweet Hawaiian rolls. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these sliders are a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Hawaiian Rolls:

1 package Savory Butter Hawaiian Rolls (12 count)

Ham and Cheese:

12 slices black forest ham
6 slices Havarti cheese

Buttery Topping:

4 tbsp salted butter
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/4 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
1/4 tsp onion powder (optional)
1 tbsp poppy seeds

Instructions

Prepare rolls and baking dish: Slice the entire block of rolls in half without separating the rolls. Remove top half of Hawaiian rolls and set aside. Place bottom half of rolls in a 9×12 baking pan, lightly greased with butter.
Add ham and cheese: Layer each roll with a slice of ham and a half slice of cheese.
Prepare and add buttery topping: In a microwavable bowl, cover and heat butter for about 30 seconds or until melted. Stir in Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, and poppy seeds. Add the top layer of rolls and brush with butter-poppy seed mixture.
Bake: Loosely cover with foil and bake at 350˚F for about 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 5 minutes or until cheese is melted and tops of buns are golden brown.

Notes

Feel free to customize these sliders with your favorite ingredients like mustard, pickles, or even a touch of honey for a sweet twist.
These sliders are best served warm and fresh out of the oven.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Appetizer, Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American