Easy and Delicious Ham and Cheese Sliders

There’s something special about a warm, cheesy sandwich fresh out of the oven. Whether you’re hosting a party, making a quick dinner, or looking for the perfect snack, ham and cheese sliders are a must-try! They’re soft, buttery, and packed with gooey melted cheese and savory ham. Best of all, they’re super easy to make!

I love making these sliders, especially when I have guests over or need a quick meal for my family. They’re perfect for game nights, holidays, or even as an after-school snack. Plus, you can prepare them in advance and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat!

Right now, with cooler weather setting in, these warm, cheesy sliders feel extra comforting. Pair them with a hot bowl of soup or a fresh salad, and you’ve got a meal that’s both satisfying and simple. Let’s dive into why you’ll love these sliders and how to make them at home!

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Why You’ll Love Ham and Cheese Sliders

There are so many reasons to love this recipe! Here’s why it’s a winner:

• Quick and Easy: You only need a few ingredients, and it takes just 10 minutes to prepare.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a party, a picnic, or just dinner at home, these sliders fit right in.
• Customizable: You can switch up the meats, cheeses, and seasonings to match your taste.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters love these cheesy, buttery sandwiches.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble them ahead of time and bake them later!

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Ingredients for Ham and Cheese Sliders

Here’s what you need to make these delicious sliders:

For the Sliders:

• 12 Soft dinner rolls or small bun
• ½ pound thinly sliced ham (deli-style or leftover baked ham)
• 6-8 slices Swiss cheese (or cheddar, provolone, or your favorite cheese)

For the Butter Glaze:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (optional, but adds crunch and flavor)
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

Kitchen Tools Needed

Before you start making these ham and cheese sliders, gather the following kitchen tools:

• Baking dish (9×13 inches) – This size fits 12 sliders perfectly.
• Sharp knife or serrated bread knife – To slice the rolls evenly without squishing them.
• Small mixing bowl – For preparing the butter glaze.
• Pastry brush or spoon – To spread the butter mixture evenly over the sliders.
• Aluminum foil – Helps prevent the tops from burning while baking.
• Measuring spoons and cups – To get the right amount of ingredients.

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get to the fun part—cooking!

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Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Slice the Rolls

Without pulling them apart, carefully slice the entire batch of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. This keeps the sliders together and makes assembling them easier. Place the bottom half of the rolls into the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Layer the Ham and Cheese

Lay out an even layer of thinly sliced ham over the bottom half of the rolls. Then, place the Swiss cheese slices on top of the ham, covering the entire surface. Gently place the top half of the rolls back on.

Step 4: Make the Butter Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together:

• Melted butter
• Dijon mustard
• Worcestershire sauce
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Poppy seeds (if using)

Step 5: Brush and Bake

Using a pastry brush (or spoon), evenly spread the butter glaze over the tops of the sliders. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes.

Step 6: Remove the Foil and Finish Baking

Take off the foil and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and slightly crispy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped parsley (optional), and let them cool for a few minutes. Use a knife to separate the sliders, then serve warm!

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Tips and Tricks for Success

Here are some expert tips to make your ham and cheese sliders even better:

• Use Soft Rolls – Hawaiian rolls work best because they’re soft, slightly sweet, and hold up well with the filling.
• Try Different Cheeses – Swiss cheese is classic, but cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone all work great.
• Make Ahead for Easy Prep – Assemble the sliders a few hours in advance and keep them covered in the fridge. Just bake when ready!
• Cover with Foil First – This keeps the tops from burning while the cheese melts. Removing the foil for the last few minutes adds that perfect golden brown finish.
• Customize the Filling – Add cooked bacon, turkey, or even a layer of honey mustard for extra flavor.
• Serve with Dipping Sauces – These sliders taste amazing with honey mustard, ranch dressing, or barbecue sauce on the side.

With these tips, your sliders will turn out perfect every time. Try them for your next family gathering, party, or weeknight meal—they’re guaranteed to be a hit!

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about ham and cheese sliders is how easy they are to customize! Here are some fun substitutions and variations to try:

Substitutions:

• Bread: Instead of Hawaiian rolls, try brioche buns, dinner rolls, or even mini croissants for a buttery twist.
• Meat: Swap out ham for turkey, roast beef, chicken, or even salami for a different flavor.
• Cheese: If Swiss isn’t your favorite, use cheddar, mozzarella, provolone, pepper jack, or gouda.
• Butter Glaze: Not a fan of Dijon mustard? Substitute it with honey mustard or leave it out for a milder taste.

Flavor Variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add a few slices of jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat.
• BBQ Style: Replace the butter glaze with a barbecue sauce glaze and use smoked gouda or cheddar cheese.
• Breakfast Sliders: Add scrambled eggs and bacon for a delicious breakfast version.
• Hawaiian-Inspired: Add a thin slice of pineapple for a sweet and savory combination.

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Serving Suggestions

Ham and cheese sliders are delicious on their own, but they pair perfectly with different sides. Here are some serving ideas:

• Soups: Pair with tomato soup, broccoli cheddar soup, or French onion soup for a cozy meal.
• Salads: A Caesar salad, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad adds a refreshing contrast.
• Dipping Sauces: Serve with honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a creamy cheese sauce for extra flavor.
• Side Dishes: Try them with sweet potato fries, potato wedges, or roasted vegetables for a filling meal.

For a party, serve sliders on a platter with a mix of fruit, chips, and veggie sticks for an easy snack board!

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

If you have leftovers (which isn’t common because they disappear fast!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

Storing Leftovers:

• Place the cooled sliders in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions:

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10 minutes (or 20 minutes if frozen) until warm.
• Microwave: Heat each slider for 30 seconds (best for a quick fix but can make the bread softer).
• Air Fryer: Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 3-5 minutes for a crispier texture.

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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can I make ham and cheese sliders ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble them ahead, cover with plastic wrap, and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed.

2. Can I freeze sliders before baking?

Yes, assemble the sliders but don’t add the butter glaze yet. Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight, add the glaze, and bake.

3. What’s the best way to keep sliders warm for a party?

Keep them in a slow cooker on warm, or cover them with foil in a low-temperature oven (200°F/90°C) until serving.

4. Can I use different meats and cheeses?

Absolutely! Try turkey, roast beef, or even shredded chicken with cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone.

5. How do I prevent the sliders from getting soggy?

Make sure to lightly toast the bottom half of the rolls before adding the ham and cheese. Also, avoid adding too much glaze or sauce directly to the bread.

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With these tips and variations, you’ll be making ham and cheese sliders like a pro in no time! They’re easy, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Try them for your next gathering or quick meal, and enjoy every cheesy, buttery bite!

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me @tasiahub. I’d love to see your creations!