Description
Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders
Ingredients
12 slider rolls or Hawaiian rolls
12 slices of deli ham
12 slices of Swiss or cheddar cheese
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Baking Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Assemble the Sliders:
Slice the rolls in half horizontally, keeping the bottom and top halves intact.
Place the bottom half of the rolls in the prepared dish.
Layer ham slices evenly over the rolls, followed by the cheese slices.
Place the top half of the rolls back on top.
Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and poppy seeds.
Brush and Bake:
Pour the sauce evenly over the sliders, making sure to cover the tops of the rolls.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy these gooey, savory sliders!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 12 sliders
Perfect for parties, game days, or a quick family dinner, these sliders are irresistibly delicious!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect sliders every time. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your 9×13-inch baking dish. Slice your entire package of rolls in half horizontally to create one large top and one large bottom. Place the bottom slab of rolls in the dish. Layer all 12 slices of ham evenly, folding if needed, then layer all 12 slices of cheese. Carefully place the top half of the rolls back on. In a separate bowl, thoroughly combine the melted butter, Dijon, Worcestershire, and garlic powder. Generously brush or pour this mixture over the entire top of the rolls, ensuring it soaks into the seams. Sprinkle poppy seeds evenly across the top. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Uncover and bake for 5-10 more minutes until golden and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
These sliders are incredibly versatile. For a party, pair them with a crisp green salad, pickle spears, and potato chips. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a creamy tomato soup or a vegetable tray with ranch dip. They are perfect for potlucks, baby showers, or as a savory addition to a brunch spread. Consider offering a small bowl of extra Dijon mustard or a honey mustard sauce on the side for dipping.
How-to Summary
In short: Slice rolls, layer ham and cheese, replace tops. Whisk butter, mustard, Worcestershire, and garlic powder together. Pour sauce over rolls, sprinkle with poppy seeds. Bake covered for 15 minutes at 350°F, then uncovered for 5-10 minutes until golden. Serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these sliders ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the sliders and prepare the sauce. Keep them separate in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Pour the sauce over and bake just before serving.
Can I use different cheeses? Absolutely. Provolone, gouda, or pepper jack are excellent alternatives. Use what you love or have on hand.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 300°F oven wrapped in foil for 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave for 30-60 seconds.
Can I use salted butter? Yes, but omit any additional salt in the recipe. The ham and cheese provide plenty of saltiness.
What can I substitute for poppy seeds? You can simply omit them, or use everything bagel seasoning for a different flavor profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls: Do not use rolls that are too fresh and soft, as they can become soggy; slightly day-old rolls absorb the sauce better. Do not skip the foil cover for the first bake, as this ensures the cheese melts and the rolls heat through without burning. Do not pour cold sauce from the fridge onto the rolls, as it will not spread evenly—melt the butter first. Finally, do not overbake after removing the foil; watch closely to achieve a golden brown top without drying out the rolls.
Conclusion
These Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining simplicity with incredible flavor. The magic lies in the buttery, savory sauce that transforms basic ingredients into a warm, gooey, and irresistible dish. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a gathering, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Master the simple steps, avoid the common errors, and you’ll have a foolproof recipe to return to again and again.