Snacks Mason Williams December 29, 2024 0 Comments

Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe

When it comes to party snacks or casual family dinners, few recipes are as universally loved as ham and cheese sliders. They’re warm, cheesy, and loaded with flavor—a bite-sized treat that always disappears in minutes. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, potluck, or just looking for a quick dinner idea, these sliders are a guaranteed hit. And the best part? They’re ridiculously easy to make.

In this guide, we’ll take you through every step of creating the ultimate ham and cheese sliders. From selecting the perfect ingredients to adding your personal touch, you’ll be whipping up these crowd-pleasers quickly.

Table of Contents

Why Ham and Cheese Sliders Are a Must-Try

Ham and cheese sliders combine the perfect mix of flavors and textures. Soft, buttery rolls cradle savory ham and gooey melted cheese, all topped with a tangy, buttery glaze. They’re versatile too—you can serve them as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course with a side of salad or soup.

Growing up, my mom made these sliders for every family gathering. She’d always let me help brush the buttery topping on the rolls, and the smell of them baking was pure heaven. To this day, no party feels complete without them.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make Ham and Cheese Sliders

For the sliders:

12 Hawaiian rolls: Their sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory ham and cheese.
1/2 pound of sliced ham: Choose your favorite variety, whether it’s honey-glazed, smoked, or black forest.
1/2 pound of sliced cheese: Swiss is classic, but cheddar or provolone works too.

For the topping:

1/4 cup melted butter
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon poppy seeds
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder

How to Make Ham and Cheese Sliders

1. Prepare the Rolls

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping them attached to each other. Place the bottom half in a baking dish.

2. Layer the Fillings

Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the bottom half of the rolls. This adds a subtle tanginess. Layer the ham slices evenly over the rolls, followed by the cheese. Place the top half of the rolls back on top.

3. Make the Buttery Glaze

In a small bowl, mix melted butter with Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk until smooth. This glaze is what takes the sliders to the next level.

4. Brush and Bake

Using a pastry brush, generously coat the tops of the rolls with the buttery glaze. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes or until the tops are golden and the cheese is melted.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Let the sliders cool for a minute or two before slicing them apart. Serve them warm, and watch them disappear!

Tips for Making the Best Ham and Cheese Sliders

1. Use Quality Ingredients

The better the ham and cheese, the better your sliders will taste. Splurge a little on high-quality deli slices for maximum flavor.

2. Customize the Flavors

Feel free to swap out the ingredients to suit your taste. Add a layer of honey for sweetness or sprinkle some chili flakes in the glaze for a spicy kick.

3. Make Them Ahead

These sliders can be prepped ahead of time. Assemble them and store them in the fridge (without the glaze) for up to a day. Add the glaze and bake when you’re ready to serve.

Ham and Cheese Sliders Variations to Try

1. Turkey and Brie Sliders

Replace the ham with turkey and the Swiss cheese with creamy Brie. Add a dollop of cranberry sauce for a festive twist.

2. Roast Beef and Cheddar Sliders

Swap the ham for roast beef and use sharp cheddar cheese. A smear of horseradish sauce adds a zesty kick.

3. Vegetarian Sliders

Go meat-free by using roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Pair them with a robust cheese like Gouda or smoked mozzarella.

Ham and Cheese Sliders Serving Suggestions

Ham and cheese sliders are incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas to round out your meal:

Side Dishes: Serve with a green salad, coleslaw, or potato wedges.
Dipping Sauces: Offer honey mustard, ranch dressing, or marinara sauce for dipping.
Drinks: Pair with lemonade, iced tea, or even a light beer for adults.

A Personal Note on Ham and Cheese Sliders

For me, ham and cheese sliders are more than just a recipe; they’re a reminder of family gatherings and good times. I’ve made them for birthdays, holidays, and even casual movie nights. They’re easy to prepare, but they never fail to impress. The best part is watching everyone’s face light up when they take that first cheesy, buttery bite.

Making sliders is also a great way to get creative. I’ve tried countless variations, from BBQ chicken to pizza-inspired fillings. Each time, it’s a new adventure in flavor.

Conclusion

Ham and cheese sliders are the ultimate comfort food. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for a party or just treating yourself to something special, these sliders are sure to hit the spot. So grab your favorite rolls, ham, and cheese, and start baking. Your taste buds will thank you!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use different types of bread?

Yes! While Hawaiian rolls are popular for their sweetness, any soft dinner roll will work. Brioche or potato rolls are great alternatives.

2. Can I make these sliders gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free rolls and double-check that your other ingredients are gluten-free.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.

4. Can I freeze ham and cheese sliders?

Yes, you can! Assemble the sliders without the glaze, wrap them tightly in foil, and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge, add the glaze, and bake as directed.