If you’re looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, game days, or even quick dinners, Hawaiian roll sliders are a must-try. These soft, sweet rolls are layered with savory meats, melted cheese, and topped with a buttery glaze that gets baked until golden and gooey. They’re flavorful, customizable, and incredibly satisfying.
Why You’ll Love These Hawaiian Roll Sliders
Perfect for Parties – Easy to make in large batches.
Quick to Prepare – Just 10–15 minutes of prep time.
Versatile Flavors – Endless variations to suit any taste.
Kid-Approved – Sweet rolls and melty cheese are always a win.
Great for Meal Prep – Reheats well and can be made ahead of time.
What Are Hawaiian Roll Sliders?
Hawaiian roll sliders are small sandwiches made by slicing a package of sweet Hawaiian rolls in half (keeping the rolls connected), layering them with fillings, topping them with a buttery glaze, and baking them until warm and melty. The result is a pan full of irresistible, pull-apart sliders with soft interiors and a golden, flavorful crust.
Ingredients List
Base Ingredients:
1 (12-count) package Hawaiian sweet rolls
1/2 pound deli meat (ham, turkey, roast beef, or shredded chicken)
6–8 slices cheese (Swiss, cheddar, provolone, or mozzarella)
For the Butter Glaze:
1/2 cup (1 stick) melted butter
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon poppy seeds (optional)
Fresh parsley or dried Italian seasoning (optional)
Timing and Servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 12 sliders (about 6 servings)
How to Make Hawaiian Roll Sliders (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prep the Rolls
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Without separating the rolls, slice the entire pack in half horizontally.
Place the bottom half in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or foil-lined pan.
Step 2: Layer the Fillings
Add your choice of deli meat evenly over the bottom half.
Top with slices of cheese.
Place the top half of the rolls over the filling.
Step 3: Make the Butter Glaze
In a bowl, mix melted butter with mustard, Worcestershire, garlic powder, onion powder, and poppy seeds.
Brush generously over the tops of the rolls.
Step 4: Bake the Sliders
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
Remove foil and bake an additional 5–7 minutes, until the tops are golden and the cheese is melted.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Use a sharp knife or serrated blade to cut between the rolls.
Popular Hawaiian Roll Slider Variations
1. Classic Ham and Swiss
Deli ham + Swiss cheese + Dijon mustard glaze
Add pickles or caramelized onions for extra flavor
2. Turkey and Cheddar
Oven-roasted turkey + sharp cheddar + cranberry sauce or aioli
3. Roast Beef and Provolone
Thin roast beef + provolone + horseradish mayo
4. BBQ Chicken Sliders
Shredded BBQ chicken + red onion + Monterey Jack cheese
5. Cheeseburger Sliders
Ground beef patty layer + American cheese + ketchup/mustard glaze
6. Breakfast Sliders
Scrambled eggs + bacon or sausage + cheddar + maple butter glaze
7. Vegetarian Sliders
Sautéed mushrooms + spinach + mozzarella or goat cheese
What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll Sliders
Sliders can be served alone or with simple sides:
Coleslaw
Potato salad
Pickles or chips
Roasted vegetables
Fruit salad
Tomato or vegetable soup
Make-Ahead Tips for Hawaiian Roll Sliders
Preparing in Advance
Assemble the sliders (without baking) up to 24 hours in advance.
Store in the refrigerator, covered tightly with foil.
Add glaze just before baking for the best texture.
Freezing Instructions
Assemble sliders and wrap tightly in foil.
Freeze for up to 2 months.
Bake from frozen at 350°F for 25–30 minutes, covered.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storing Leftovers
Store cooled sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave for individual portions (though texture may soften).
Tips for Making the Best Sliders
Keep rolls attached – It’s easier to assemble and cut cleanly after baking.
Use enough butter glaze – It helps create that rich, golden top.
Cover while baking – Keeps them moist before uncovering for browning.
Shred your own cheese – Melts better than pre-shredded.
Don’t overstuff – Too much filling can make sliders hard to cut or soggy.
Healthier Slider Alternatives
Looking for a lighter version?
Use whole wheat or reduced-sugar rolls
Choose lean meats like turkey or grilled chicken
Swap full-fat cheese for low-fat versions
Use Greek yogurt-based spread instead of mayo or butter
Add fresh veggies like lettuce, spinach, or thin cucumber slices
FAQs
Q1: Can I make these without butter?
You can use olive oil, but butter adds rich flavor and helps brown the rolls.
Q2: What if I don’t have Hawaiian rolls?
You can substitute with any soft dinner rolls or slider buns, but Hawaiian rolls add a unique sweet flavor.
Q3: How do I prevent soggy sliders?
Avoid too many wet ingredients, and bake uncovered for the last few minutes to crisp the top.
Q4: Can I use pulled pork or brisket?
Absolutely! They make delicious filling options—just ensure they’re not too wet.
Q5: Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake small batches in an air fryer at 300°F for 10–12 minutes.
Conclusion
Hawaiian roll sliders are one of the most delicious, satisfying, and easy-to-make finger foods you can add to your recipe collection. Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a game day menu, or simply need a quick dinner, these sliders check all the boxes—savory, cheesy, buttery, and soft.
Try out different fillings, play around with toppings, and you’ll soon find your own go-to slider recipe. Once you start making these little sandwiches, you’ll realize how addictive and fun they are to serve—and how quickly they disappear.