If you are looking for a crowd-pleasing snack or a tasty meal that everyone will rave about, this Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe is your new best friend. These tender, buttery rolls packed with savory ham and gooey cheese are simple to prepare yet offer a symphony of flavors that feel both comforting and indulgent. The combination of the tangy Dijon butter glaze, soft Hawaiian rolls, and melty Swiss cheese makes each bite utterly irresistible. Whether it’s for game day, a party, or a cozy family dinner, these sliders bring warmth and joy in every mouthful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is straightforward, but each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures you expect in a classic Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe. From the rich melted butter that keeps the rolls moist, to the sharpness of Swiss cheese and Dijon mustard that adds a zesty kick, every component shines.
- 6 tablespoons melted butter (divided): Adds moisture and a rich, golden finish to both the rolls and topping.
- 1½ teaspoons Dijon mustard (or grainy mustard): Gives a subtle tang that cuts through the richness and enhances flavor depth.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Brings a savory, umami note that complements the ham perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds: Adds a subtle crunch and visual interest to the buttery topping.
- 1 teaspoon onion flakes: Imparts a mild sweetness and texture variation to the glaze.
- 12 Hawaiian rolls (or dinner rolls or slider buns): Soft and slightly sweet, these rolls cradle the ingredients beautifully.
- 12 slices deli ham (*see note): The star of the dish, providing savory depth and meaty satisfaction.
- 8 ounces Swiss cheese (or cheddar cheese, sliced): Delivers gooey creaminess and a mild, nutty flavor that melts perfectly.
How to Make Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Kick things off by heating your oven to 350°F. A well-preheated oven ensures even cooking so the cheese melts flawlessly and the rolls get that perfect golden crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Flavorful Butter Glaze
Mix together 4 tablespoons of the melted butter with Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, and onion flakes in a small bowl. This glaze is where the magic starts — it infuses each slider with layers of flavor and a subtle crunch.
Step 3: Separate the Rolls
Carefully cut the rolls in half horizontally, separating the tops and bottoms while keeping the group of rolls together like a loaf. This way, your sliders will bake evenly and be easy to serve once done.
Step 4: Butter the Roll Interiors
Brush the inside surfaces of the rolls with the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter. This step locks in moisture so the bread stays soft and luscious, while enhancing the overall buttery richness.
Step 5: Layer Ham and Cheese
Place the bottom half of the rolls in a baking dish, then layer a slice of folded ham on each roll. Top each with a generous slice of Swiss cheese to ensure every bite has that signature melty goodness.
Step 6: Assemble and Glaze the Tops
Carefully place the top halves of the rolls over the cheese and gently brush the prepared mustard butter glaze on top. This flavorful glaze will caramelize in the oven, giving your sliders an irresistible look and taste.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the sliders uncovered for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them — when the cheese has melted completely, and the tops are lightly browned and glistening, you know they’re ready to be devoured.
Step 8: Serve Warm and Enjoy!
These sliders are best enjoyed fresh from the oven while the cheese is gooey and the rolls are warm. Get ready to impress everyone with this delightful Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe that feels like a warm hug in sandwich form.
How to Serve Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like fresh parsley or a light sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper can elevate the presentation and add a splash of color. You could also serve with a dollop of grainy mustard or a tangy pickle on the side for a crunchy contrast that complements the sliders beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair your sliders with classic sides like crispy potato chips, a fresh garden salad, or tangy coleslaw to balance the richness. If you want to go a bit heartier, baked beans or roasted veggies work wonderfully to round out your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or casual get-togethers, serve the sliders on a large wooden board with toothpicks for easy grabbing. You can also create mini slider platters arranged with colorful veggies and dips, turning this simple recipe into a centerpiece everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover sliders tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them an easy next-day snack or lunch option.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled sliders before baking. Wrap them securely in foil and place in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, allowing you to enjoy this Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe even on your busiest days.
Reheating
To reheat, bake the frozen or refrigerated sliders in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through and the cheese is melted. This keeps the rolls soft but ensures the cheese stays deliciously gooey.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese offers a classic nutty flavor, cheddar or even a mild provolone can be great substitutes. Just choose a cheese that melts well for the best results.
Is there a vegetarian version of this slider?
You can easily swap the ham for sliced roasted vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant, or even use a plant-based deli slice to make a vegetarian-friendly slider without sacrificing taste.
Why do you use both melted butter and a butter glaze?
The melted butter brushed inside the rolls keeps the bread soft and adds richness, while the butter glaze on top caramelizes with the mustard and seasonings, providing flavor, aroma, and a delightful texture contrast.
Can these sliders be made ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the sliders and keep them covered in the fridge for a few hours before baking. This makes them perfect for prepping in advance and baking just before serving.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover sliders?
Reheating in the oven at 350°F is best to maintain the bread’s softness and melt the cheese evenly. Using a microwave can cause the bread to become soggy or tough, so the oven is preferred.
Final Thoughts
This Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and hearty flavor that will win hearts at any table. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick family meal or entertaining guests, these sliders deliver comfort and satisfaction with every bite. I hope you enjoy making and sharing these as much as I do — they really are a little slice of happiness!
Print
Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Ham and Cheese Sliders are a delicious, crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack perfect for parties and gatherings. Soft Hawaiian rolls are layered with savory deli ham and melty Swiss cheese, then generously brushed with a buttery, flavorful poppy seed mustard sauce before baking to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Sauce
- 6 tablespoons melted butter (divided)
- 1½ teaspoons Dijon mustard (or grainy mustard)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon dried onion flakes
Sliders
- 12 Hawaiian rolls (or dinner rolls or slider buns)
- 12 slices deli ham
- 8 ounces Swiss cheese (or cheddar cheese, sliced)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the sliders.
- Make the Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of the melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, and dried onion flakes. Mix well to create a flavorful brushing sauce.
- Prepare the Rolls: Cut the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, separating the tops from the bottoms. If the rolls are attached, there’s no need to separate each one completely.
- Butter the Roll Interiors: Using the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter, brush the inside surfaces of both the top and bottom halves of the rolls to add moisture and flavor.
- Assemble the Sliders: Arrange the bottom halves of the rolls in a baking dish. Place one slice of folded deli ham on each bottom roll, then layer with slices of Swiss cheese.
- Top and Brush: Place the top halves of the rolls over the cheese. Gently brush the prepared poppy seed butter mixture evenly over the tops of the sliders.
- Bake: Bake the sliders uncovered for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese has melted completely and the tops are lightly browned and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the sliders cool slightly, then serve warm and enjoy this savory, melty treat.
Notes
- You can substitute cheddar cheese for Swiss if preferred.
- Use good quality deli ham for best flavor.
- These sliders are best served warm fresh from the oven.
- To make ahead, assemble the sliders but wait to brush the poppy seed butter mixture until right before baking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven wrapped in foil.
