Easy Ham and Cheese Sliders

Picture this: It’s a hectic weeknight, and you need something quick, delicious, and satisfying for dinner. Or maybe you’re hosting friends and want a stress-free appetizer that everyone will love. That’s where these easy ham and cheese sliders come in. They’re simple to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

These sliders use soft Hawaiian rolls, layers of savory ham, melted Swiss cheese, and a mouthwatering buttery topping. Baked until golden brown, they offer the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and cheesy goodness—all in a bite-sized sandwich. Best of all, this recipe requires minimal effort, making it ideal for beginner cooks.

Easy Ham and Cheese Sliders

Why These Ham and Cheese Sliders Are Special

  1. Beginner-Friendly – No complicated steps or special techniques required. Just assemble, bake, and enjoy.
  2. Quick to Make – Ready in under 35 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
  3. Customizable – Swap out ingredients to suit your taste or use what you already have in your fridge.
  4. Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a casual dinner, party appetizer, or game-day snack, these sliders always impress.

Ingredients and Their Roles

Each ingredient plays an important role in bringing out the best flavors and textures in these sliders.

  • Hawaiian Rolls – Their slight sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory filling, but regular dinner rolls work too.
  • Deli Ham – A classic choice for these sliders, but turkey, roast beef, or salami are great alternatives.
  • Swiss Cheese – Melts beautifully and has a mild, nutty flavor. Substitute with cheddar, provolone, or mozzarella if preferred.
  • Butter – Forms the base of the sauce, adding richness and helping the sliders bake to golden perfection.
  • Brown Sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness to balance the salty ham and cheese.
  • Dijon Mustard – Provides a subtle tang that enhances the overall flavor.
  • Worcestershire Sauce – Gives a savory depth that elevates the buttery topping.
  • Poppy Seeds – Offer a slight crunch and a visually appealing finish.
  • Dried Minced Onion – Adds an extra layer of flavor, but you can use onion powder for a milder taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Gluten-Free? Use gluten-free rolls.
  • Dairy-Free? Swap out the butter and cheese for dairy-free alternatives.
  • Spice It Up? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use spicy mustard.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Slice the Rolls

Using a long serrated knife, slice the entire package of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping them connected. Place the bottom half in the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Layer the Ham and Cheese

Arrange half of the ham slices evenly over the rolls. Layer on all the cheese slices, followed by the remaining ham. Place the top half of the rolls back on top.

Step 4: Make the Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, and minced onion until well combined.

Step 5: Coat the Sliders

Pour the buttery sauce evenly over the sliders, making sure to cover all the tops. Use a brush or spoon to spread it around if needed.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes to let the cheese melt. Then, uncover and bake for another 10 minutes until the tops are golden brown.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before cutting into individual sliders. Serve warm and enjoy!

Beginner Tips and Notes

  • Avoid Soggy Sliders – Covering with foil for part of the baking time prevents overbrowning, while uncovering at the end ensures crisp tops.
  • Easier Cutting – Use a sharp serrated knife to cut the sliders cleanly after baking.
  • Making Ahead? – Assemble the sliders without adding the sauce, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, pour the sauce over and proceed with baking.
  • How to Store Leftovers – Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes.

What to Serve with Ham and Cheese Sliders

These sliders are satisfying on their own, but pairing them with the right sides takes them to the next level.

For a Casual Dinner:

  • Coleslaw – A tangy crunch balances the richness of the sliders.
  • Green Beans Almondine – A simple and healthy veggie side.
  • Sweet Potato Fries – Adds a crispy, slightly sweet contrast.

For a Party Spread:

  • Caprese Pasta Salad – A refreshing, no-bake option.
  • Crockpot Little Smokies – A classic, crowd-pleasing appetizer.
  • Spinach and Artichoke Dip – A creamy, cheesy dip to round out your menu.

Give These Sliders a Try!

Now that you know how easy these ham and cheese sliders are to make, there’s no reason not to try them! Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight meal, a potluck dish, or a party favorite, this recipe has you covered.

If you make these sliders, I’d love to hear about it! Drop a comment below and let me know how they turned out. Did you make any creative variations? Let’s chat!

FAQ About Ham and Cheese Sliders

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the sliders without adding the sauce, cover them tightly, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, pour the sauce over and proceed with baking.

What’s the best way to keep sliders from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, bake the sliders covered for the first 15 minutes, then uncover them for the last 10 minutes. This ensures they stay moist but develop a crisp top.

Can I use a different type of bread?

Absolutely! While Hawaiian rolls add a subtle sweetness, you can use regular dinner rolls, brioche buns, or even small ciabatta rolls for a firmer texture.

What cheese works best for these sliders?

Swiss cheese is a classic choice, but you can also use cheddar, provolone, mozzarella, or Colby Jack for a different flavor profile.

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Easy Ham and Cheese Sliders

Easy Ham and Cheese Sliders


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  • Author: Ashely
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 24 sliders 1x

Description

These easy ham and cheese sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Made with soft Hawaiian rolls, layers of savory ham, melted Swiss cheese, and a buttery, flavorful glaze, they are perfect for a quick dinner, party appetizer, or game-day snack.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
  • 1 tablespoon dried minced onion (or 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder)
  • 1 pound Hawaiian rolls (24 small or 12 large)
  • 1 pound deli ham, thinly sliced
  • 1 pound Swiss cheese, sliced

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven and prepare the dish: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
  2. Slice the rolls: Keeping the rolls connected, use a serrated knife to slice them in half horizontally. Place the bottom half in the prepared baking dish.
  3. Layer the ham and cheese: Arrange half of the ham slices evenly over the bottom layer of rolls. Add all of the Swiss cheese in a single layer, then top with the remaining ham slices. Place the top half of the rolls back on.
  4. Make the buttery sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, and dried minced onion until well combined.
  5. Coat the sliders: Pour the butter mixture evenly over the tops of the sliders, ensuring full coverage. Use a pastry brush or spoon to spread the mixture if needed.
  6. Bake to perfection: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the tops are golden brown and slightly crispy.
  7. Serve and enjoy: Let the sliders cool for a few minutes before cutting them apart. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter sauce.
  • To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free rolls and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
  • Try different meats and cheeses, such as turkey with provolone or roast beef with cheddar, for a new twist.
  • For a crispier texture, bake uncovered for a few extra minutes at the end, but watch closely to prevent burning.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course, Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slider
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

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