Name: Easy Ham and Cheese Sliders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 slider rolls (Hawaiian or soft dinner rolls); 1 pound deli ham (honey-baked or smoked); 12 slices Swiss or cheddar cheese; 4 tablespoons melted butter; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Ham and cheese sliders are the ultimate comfort food that combines savory ham with melted cheese between soft rolls. These delightful bite-sized treats are not only incredibly easy to prepare but also perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner. With their appealing presentation and mouthwatering flavor, these sliders quickly become a favorite at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or simply want a quick weeknight meal, this recipe will impress everyone at your table. In just about 30 minutes, you can whip up these delicious ham and cheese sliders using ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven with golden brown tops and gooey cheese oozing from the sides. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making these scrumptious sliders!

Why You’ll Love This ham and cheese sliders

Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients for ham and cheese sliders

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Slider Rolls: Use soft dinner rolls or Hawaiian rolls for the best texture; they hold up well with fillings.
Deli Ham: Choose your favorite type of deli ham; honey-baked or smoked varieties work especially well.
Cheese Slices: Swiss or cheddar cheese melts beautifully; feel free to mix cheeses for extra flavor.
Butter: Melted butter enhances flavor; consider adding garlic powder or parsley for an extra kick.
Dijon Mustard: A thin layer adds a tangy taste that complements the richness of the ham and cheese.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make ham and cheese sliders

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures that the sliders bake evenly while melting the cheese perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. This step makes serving easier later on.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

Slice the slider rolls in half horizontally without separating them completely. Layer slices of deli ham followed by slices of cheese on the bottom half of each roll.

Step 4: Add Mustard and Top Half

Spread Dijon mustard on top of the cheese layer if desired. Place the top halves back on each slider.

Step 5: Brush with Butter

In a bowl, mix melted butter with garlic powder if using. Brush this mixture over the tops of the assembled sliders to enhance flavor and promote browning.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes. Remove the foil afterward and bake for an additional five minutes until golden brown.

Transfer to plates and enjoy warm as a tasty appetizer or main course!

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
Topping Variations: Experiment with different toppings like sesame seeds or poppy seeds for added texture
Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating your ham in mustard overnight before assembling

How to Serve ham and cheese sliders

This ham and cheese sliders is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead: Prepare the ham and cheese sliders components in advance. You can slice the bread, ham, and cheese up to one day before serving. Keep them stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to store them longer, consider freezing them for up to two months.
Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sliders on a baking sheet and cover them with aluminum foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. For a crispier texture, remove the foil during the last five minutes.

Suggestions for ham and cheese sliders

Choose the Right Bread

Selecting the right bread is crucial for perfect ham and cheese sliders. Opt for soft dinner rolls or slider buns that can hold the fillings without falling apart. Avoid using overly crusty bread, as it can make biting into the sliders challenging. The bread should complement the flavors of the ham and cheese while providing a tender bite. Additionally, ensure that the bread is fresh; stale bread can ruin the overall texture and taste of your sliders.

Don’t Overload on Ingredients

While it may be tempting to pile on extra toppings or ingredients, moderation is key. Too much filling can lead to messy sliders that are hard to handle. Stick to a balance of ham and cheese, allowing each flavor to shine through. You can enhance flavors with condiments like mustard or mayonnaise, but remember that less is more in this case. Keeping it simple will ensure a delightful eating experience without overwhelming the palate.

Bake at the Right Temperature

Baking temperature plays a significant role in achieving golden-brown ham and cheese sliders. Preheat your oven to around 350°F (175°C) for optimal results. If your oven runs hot, consider lowering the temperature slightly to prevent burning the tops while ensuring the cheese melts perfectly. Baking too quickly at a high temperature can also dry out your sliders. Monitor them closely during baking for that ideal texture and color.

Allow Sliders to Rest Before Serving

After baking, it’s important to let your ham and cheese sliders rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the cheese to firm up slightly, making it easier to cut and serve without losing filling everywhere. If you serve them immediately after baking, they may be too gooey and fall apart easily. Giving them time to cool also enhances their flavor as all ingredients meld together beautifully.

FAQs

What type of ham is best for ham and cheese sliders?

When choosing ham for your sliders, opt for deli-style sliced meats such as honey-baked or smoked ham. These varieties provide great flavor without being overly salty or tough. You may also consider using Virginia ham for a sweeter profile or Black Forest ham for something more robust. Ensure that your slices are thin enough to fit comfortably in the slider bun while still delivering satisfying flavor.

Can I make ham and cheese sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing ham and cheese sliders ahead of time is convenient, especially for gatherings or meal prep. Assemble your sliders as directed but do not bake them just yet. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, simply pop them in the oven straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

How do I store leftover ham and cheese sliders?

To store leftover ham and cheese sliders, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for about 3-4 days when stored properly. Alternatively, you can wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a container for easy grab-and-go snacks later on. Reheat leftovers in an oven or microwave until warmed through; avoid reheating in high heat settings which could dry them out.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While traditional recipes often call for Swiss or cheddar cheese, feel free to experiment with different types based on your preferences. Provolone offers a deliciously mild taste, while pepper jack adds a spicy kick if you’re feeling adventurous. For an indulgent option, try using mozzarella which melts beautifully into gooey perfection when baked.

Conclusion for ham and cheese sliders

In conclusion, creating delightful ham and cheese sliders requires attention to detail at every step—from selecting quality ingredients to employing proper cooking techniques. By choosing soft bread, balancing fillings wisely, baking at suitable temperatures, and allowing time for resting before serving, you can achieve impressive results every time you make these tasty treats. Don’t forget that preparation methods like storing leftovers correctly can extend enjoyment beyond just one meal! With these tips in hand, you’re well-equipped to impress friends and family with delicious homemade sliders that are sure to become a favorite at any gathering.