Ham and Cheese Sliders

by
Print Recipe

Introduction

Ham and Cheese Sliders are the ultimate go-to for a warm, satisfying, and shareable treat. Imagine soft, pillowy rolls layered with savory ham, gooey melted cheese, and topped with a buttery glaze infused with garlic, poppy seeds, and a hint of sweetness. Baked until golden and bubbly, these sliders offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures that make them a standout at any gathering. Whether you’re prepping for game day, hosting a party, or whipping up a quick family dinner, these sliders are always a crowd-pleaser.

The first time I made these, I couldn’t believe how simple yet impressive they turned out. Assembling them took just minutes, and the aroma of the buttery, seasoned topping baking in the oven had everyone eagerly waiting to dig in. By the time they were served, the tray was empty in no time—a true testament to their deliciousness.

What I love most about Ham and Cheese Sliders is their versatility. You can customize them with different cheeses like Swiss, cheddar, or provolone, and add extras like Dijon mustard, honey, or even a layer of crispy bacon for a fun twist. Pair them with a fresh salad, chips, or a bowl of soup, and you’ve got a meal or snack that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Perfectly portable and irresistibly tasty, these sliders are sure to be a hit every time!

Perfect for:

  • Game day snacks
  • Family dinners
  • Holiday gatherings
  • Potlucks
  • Quick meals

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Ham and Cheese Sliders will become your go-to dish:

  • Quick and Easy: These sliders come together in minutes, making them perfect for busy days.
  • Customizable: You can switch up the cheese, add extra toppings, or try different seasonings for the glaze.
  • Perfectly Portable: Their small size makes them ideal for serving at parties or on the go.
  • Kid-Friendly: With simple ingredients like ham and cheese, even picky eaters love them.
  • Irresistibly Flavorful: The buttery topping, combined with melty cheese and savory ham, creates a flavor-packed bite every time.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 12 sliders
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 10g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Ham and Cheese Sliders:

  • 12 slider buns (Hawaiian rolls or similar)
  • 12 slices of deli ham (about 1 pound)
  • 6 slices of Swiss cheese, halved
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise (optional)
  • ¼ cup Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley

Ingredient Highlights

  • Slider Buns: Sweet Hawaiian rolls are the classic choice, but any soft dinner roll will work.
  • Ham: Thinly sliced deli ham is ideal, but leftover baked ham can also be used.
  • Swiss Cheese: The mild flavor of Swiss complements the ham perfectly, but you can substitute cheddar, provolone, or your favorite cheese.
  • Butter Glaze: The buttery topping, seasoned with poppy seeds and spices, takes these sliders to the next level.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Sliders:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Slice the Rolls: Without separating the buns, slice the entire package of slider rolls in half horizontally. Place the bottom half in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Add Mayonnaise and Mustard (Optional): Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise and/or Dijon mustard over the bottom buns for extra flavor.
  4. Layer the Ham and Cheese: Layer the slices of ham evenly over the bottom buns, followed by the cheese. Place the top half of the buns on top.

Prepare the Glaze:

  1. Melt the Butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with poppy seeds, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, and dried parsley. Stir until well mixed.
  2. Brush the Glaze: Use a pastry brush to generously spread the butter mixture over the tops of the buns, ensuring even coverage.

Bake the Sliders:

  1. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
  2. Uncover and Brown: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Serve and Enjoy:

  1. Slice and Serve: Use a sharp knife to cut the sliders apart and serve them warm.

How to Serve

Ham and Cheese Sliders are versatile and can be served in several ways:

  • Classic Party Platter: Arrange the sliders on a large serving tray with a garnish of parsley or rosemary for a polished presentation.
  • Game Day Spread: Serve alongside chips, dips, and finger foods like chicken wings or veggie sticks.
  • Mini Slider Tower: Stack sliders in a pyramid shape and secure them with decorative skewers for an eye-catching centerpiece.
  • Themed Charcuterie Board: Place the sliders on a large board surrounded by complementary sides like pickles, olives, mustard, and fruit slices.
  • Pair with Soup: Offer a bowl of tomato soup or potato chowder for dipping sliders on a cozy meal platter.
  • Brunch Buffet: Add the sliders to a brunch menu alongside scrambled eggs, fruit salad, and mimosas.
  • Slider Bar: Serve plain sliders with a variety of condiments and toppings (like lettuce, tomatoes, and caramelized onions) for guests to customize.
  • Skewer Style: Pierce each slider with a long skewer and add an olive, pickle, or cherry tomato on top for an appetizer-style serving.
  • Picnic-Ready: Pack sliders in parchment paper wraps and pair with fresh fruit, coleslaw, and lemonade for an easy outdoor meal.
  • Individual Servings: Plate two or three sliders per person alongside a side salad or fries for a more structured meal option.

Additional Tips

  • Use Fresh Rolls: Fresh, soft rolls ensure the best texture for your sliders.
  • Prevent Burning: Cover the sliders with foil during the first part of baking to prevent the tops from browning too quickly.
  • Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack for variety.
  • Add Veggies: Layer spinach, arugula, or caramelized onions for extra flavor and texture.
  • Double the Recipe: These sliders are a hit, so consider making a double batch for larger gatherings.

Recipe Variations

  1. Turkey and Cheddar Sliders
  2. Roast Beef and Provolone Sliders
  3. Ham, Egg, and Cheese Breakfast Sliders
  4. Pulled Pork Sliders with Coleslaw
  5. Italian Sliders with Salami and Pepperoni
  6. Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders
  7. Philly Cheesesteak Sliders
  8. BBQ Chicken Sliders
  9. Vegetarian Caprese Sliders
  10. Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Assemble the sliders without baking and freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Special Equipment

  • Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch glass or metal baking dish works perfectly for evenly baking the sliders.
  • Bread Knife: A serrated knife makes it easy to slice slider rolls in half without crushing them.
  • Silicone Brush: Use this to evenly spread melted butter or glaze over the tops of the sliders.
  • Pastry Brush: Ideal for spreading sauces or egg wash for a golden finish.
  • Aluminum Foil: To cover the sliders during baking to prevent them from over-browning.
  • Mandoline Slicer: Perfect for thinly slicing onions, pickles, or other toppings for your sliders.
  • Grater: A box grater can help you freshly shred cheese for optimal melting.
  • Oven Thermometer: Ensures your oven is at the right temperature for even cooking.
  • Spatula or Cake Lifter: Helps transfer sliders from the baking dish to a serving plate without breaking them apart.
  • Serving Platter: A wide platter or tray makes serving the sliders neat and presentable.

FAQ

  1. Can I make these sliders ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble them up to a day in advance. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake.
  2. Can I use different meats? Absolutely! Turkey, roast beef, or even chicken work well.
  3. Do I have to use poppy seeds? No, you can omit them or replace them with sesame seeds or skip seeds altogether.
  4. Can I use pre-shredded cheese? Yes, but slices are easier to layer and provide even coverage.
  5. What’s the best way to reheat them? Reheat sliders in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for the best results.

Conclusion

Ham and Cheese Sliders are an irresistible, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With layers of savory ham, melty cheese, and a golden, buttery topping, these sliders are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a party, feeding a group, or just whipping up a quick meal, they’re sure to disappear in no time.

These sliders are endlessly customizable—try different cheeses, add a touch of honey mustard, or sprinkle sesame seeds on top for extra flavor. Their soft, pillowy buns and gooey, cheesy layers make them the ultimate comfort food that everyone will love.

I can’t wait to see your spin on these Ham and Cheese Sliders! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see how you make them your own. Don’t forget to share your favorite variations or tips in the comments. Happy baking!

Leave a Comment