If you’re looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that never fails, ham and cheese sliders are a must-try. These mini sandwiches are packed with savory ham, gooey melted cheese, and soft, buttery rolls brushed with a flavorful glaze. Perfect for parties, game days, holiday gatherings, or even a quick dinner, these sliders come together quickly and disappear even faster.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
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Quick and Easy to Make – Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
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Perfect for Parties – Make a large batch effortlessly for a hungry crowd.
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Incredibly Flavorful – The buttery glaze adds serious flavor to every bite.
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Customizable – Switch up the meats, cheeses, and toppings as you like.
Ingredients List
For the Sliders:
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12 Hawaiian rolls or any soft dinner rolls
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¾ lb sliced deli ham (honey ham or smoked ham)
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¾ lb sliced Swiss cheese or cheddar
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2–3 tbsp mayonnaise or Dijon mustard (optional, for spreading)
For the Glaze:
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½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
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1 tbsp Dijon mustard
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tbsp poppy seeds (optional)
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tsp garlic powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Timing & Servings
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
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Total Time: 25–30 minutes
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Servings: 12 sliders
Step-by-Step Instructions for Ham and Cheese Sliders
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or spray it with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: Slice the Rolls
Use a serrated knife to slice the rolls in half horizontally, keeping the top and bottom halves intact as one large sheet. Place the bottom half into the baking dish.
Step 3: Layer the Filling
Spread mayo or mustard on the bottom layer (optional). Evenly layer the ham slices over the bottom half, followed by the cheese. Place the top half of the rolls back on.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, onion powder, and garlic powder. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 5: Brush the Sliders
Pour or brush the glaze generously over the tops of the rolls, making sure they’re well coated.
Step 6: Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 12–15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 3–5 minutes until the tops are golden and crispy and the cheese is melted.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Use a sharp knife or spatula to cut into individual sliders. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy.
Tips for Perfect Sliders Every Time
1. Use Soft Rolls
Hawaiian rolls are the most popular for their sweetness and softness. But any dinner roll or mini bun will work.
2. Don’t Skimp on the Glaze
The buttery topping infuses flavor and gives the sliders their iconic shine and crispy finish.
3. Cover While Baking
Covering the sliders with foil helps melt the cheese and keep the bread soft before finishing uncovered to crisp the tops.
4. Press Down Before Baking
Gently pressing the top layer helps the cheese and meat bind everything together and makes slicing easier after baking.
Popular Variations to Try
1. Ham and Cheddar Sliders
Swap Swiss for sharp cheddar to get a bolder, more classic cheesy flavor.
2. Turkey and Havarti Sliders
A leaner option with creamy havarti cheese—great for lighter gatherings.
3. Roast Beef and Provolone
Use roast beef, provolone, and a horseradish mustard glaze for a heartier flavor.
4. Breakfast Sliders
Use scrambled eggs, ham or bacon, and cheese. Serve with a maple butter glaze.
5. Italian Sliders
Layer salami, ham, pepperoni, and provolone. Add Italian herbs to the glaze.
How to Make Ahead and Store Sliders
Make-Ahead Tips:
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Assemble the sliders up to 1 day ahead.
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Cover tightly and refrigerate.
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Prepare and store the glaze separately.
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When ready to bake, pour glaze on top and proceed as directed.
How to Store Leftovers:
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Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Reheat in a 325°F oven for 10 minutes or until warm. You can also microwave individual sliders for 30 seconds, but they’ll be softer.
Serving Ideas and Pairings
What to Serve With Ham and Cheese Sliders:
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Coleslaw or pasta salad – balances the richness of the sliders.
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Potato wedges or fries – classic comfort food combo.
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Tomato soup or creamy dip – perfect for dipping.
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Pickles or relish tray – add a crunchy, acidic contrast.
Party Hosting Tips with Sliders
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Bake two trays at once for big gatherings.
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Serve with toothpicks to make them easier to grab.
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Keep warm in the oven at low heat until ready to serve.
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Pair with drinks like soda, lemonade, beer, or iced tea.
Can I Freeze Ham and Cheese Sliders?
Yes! Here’s how:
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Wrap fully baked and cooled sliders tightly in foil or plastic wrap.
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Place in a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months.
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To reheat, thaw overnight and bake at 325°F until warm (about 15 minutes).
Healthier Options for Sliders
If you want a lighter version:
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Use lean ham or turkey slices.
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Use less butter or substitute with olive oil.
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Skip the glaze or use a reduced-fat version.
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Choose whole wheat or low-carb rolls.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use shredded cheese instead of slices?
Yes, but slices melt more evenly and stay in place better. Shredded cheese works well in a pinch.
Q2: Can I make these vegetarian?
Absolutely. Use sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or grilled veggies with cheese.
Q3: Why are my sliders soggy?
Too much glaze or overly soft rolls can lead to sogginess. Use just enough glaze and toast the bottom buns lightly if needed.
Q4: Can I cook these in an air fryer?
You can cook smaller batches in the air fryer at 325°F for about 6–8 minutes. Watch closely so the tops don’t burn.
Q5: What’s the best cheese for ham and cheese sliders?
Swiss is traditional, but provolone, cheddar, or mozzarella also work well.
Conclusion
Ham and cheese sliders are a simple, flavorful solution for everything from family dinners to festive events. With buttery tops, savory layers, and cheesy goodness in every bite, they’re sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Plus, they’re easy to prep ahead, travel well, and can be customized to suit any taste.
Whether you’re serving them as a party snack, game day appetizer, or main course, these sliders always hit the spot. Once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever hosted a gathering without them.