Ham and Cheese Sliders are a quintessential crowd-pleaser. These small but mighty sandwiches are perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to game day gatherings. Featuring layers of savory ham, melted cheese, and a delectable buttery glaze, these sliders are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ham and Cheese Sliders are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. They require minimal prep work and are ready in no time, making them ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers. Plus, they’re versatile and can be customized to suit your tastes with different types of cheese, ham, and additional toppings.
Ingredients
For the Sliders:
- 12 Hawaiian rolls (or any soft dinner rolls)
- 12 slices of deli ham
- 12 slices of Swiss cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (optional, for added creaminess)
For the Butter Glaze:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 tablespoon minced onion (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Baking dish (9×13-inch)
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Pastry brush
- Aluminum foil
- Knife and cutting board
Directions
Preparing the Sliders
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Assemble the Rolls: Without separating the rolls, slice them in half horizontally. Place the bottom half in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer the Ingredients: Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the bottom half of the rolls (if using). Layer the ham evenly over the rolls, followed by the cheese slices. Place the top half of the rolls over the cheese.
Making the Butter Glaze
- Mix the Glaze: In a small mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, minced onion (if using), and garlic powder. Whisk until well combined.
- Apply the Glaze: Use a pastry brush to generously brush the butter glaze over the tops of the assembled rolls, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Baking the Sliders
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
- Uncover and Bake More: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the tops of the sliders are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before cutting the sliders into individual sandwiches. Serve warm.
Notes and Tips
- Customizing: Feel free to customize your sliders with different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack. You can also add pickles, caramelized onions, or jalapeños for an extra kick.
- Even Coating: Ensure the butter glaze is spread evenly over the tops of the rolls to achieve a uniform golden brown color.
- Serving Suggestion: These sliders are best served warm, straight from the oven, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
Storage
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
Variations and Substitutions
- Different Meats: Substitute the ham with turkey, roast beef, or a combination of deli meats.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste. Gouda, mozzarella, or havarti are great alternatives.
- Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian option, use grilled vegetables or a meat substitute like veggie deli slices instead of ham.
FAQ
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the sliders a few hours ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just wait to add the butter glaze until right before baking.
How do I keep the sliders from becoming soggy?
To prevent soggy sliders, ensure your rolls are fresh and not too dense. Additionally, don’t overdo it with the mayonnaise or other wet ingredients.
Can I use different types of bread?
Absolutely! While Hawaiian rolls are popular for their sweetness and softness, you can use any type of small dinner rolls or slider buns.
Pairings
Ham and Cheese Sliders pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a fresh garden salad, coleslaw, potato chips, or a warm bowl of soup. For drinks, iced tea, lemonade, or even a cold beer make excellent companions.
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