Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders
Recipe video above. You can’t imagine how good a ham sandwich can be until you’ve tried Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders! Rolls stuffed with ham and cheese smothered in a tangy mustard onion butter sauce baked until the cheese is melty, this American game-day favorite is excellent big-batch party food that is leftover Christmas ham-worthy. The mustard and onion really work in this, lending savoriness and tang that set this apart from the usual boring lunchbox ham sandwiches! And there’s probably less butter per roll (1 3/4 tsp each) than if you spread it on like usual. (Did I just convince myself this is healthy? 🤣)
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These sliders are simple to make, perfect for beginners or busy cooks.
- Flavorsome: The combination of ham, cheese, and a tangy mustard sauce will delight your taste buds.
- Versatile: Great for parties, game days, or even a cozy family dinner.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them ahead of time and bake just before serving for warm sliders every time.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves a cheesy, savory slider—perfect for gatherings!
Tools and Preparation
To create your delicious Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders, you’ll need a few essential tools. These items will help you prepare everything with ease.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking pan (23 x 33cm / 9 x 13)
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking pan: Ensures even cooking and browning of the sliders while they bake together.
- Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients like the savory butter mixture.
- Knife: A sharp knife helps cut the rolls easily without squishing them.
Ingredients
For the Sliders
- 12 standard or 24 small soft white roll slab (23 x 33cm / 9 x 13 slab)
- 1/3 cup American mustard (ie bright yellow stuff)
- 350g/12 oz ham (shaved or thinly sliced, up to 500g/1lb)
- 250g/8 oz Swiss cheese (or other melting cheese slices, 10 – 12 slices)
- 100 g (7 tbsp) unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/4 onion (finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp American mustard
- 1 tbsp poppyseeds
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder (sub fresh garlic, finely minced)
- 1/2 tsp cooking / kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
How to Make Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C / 350°F (160°C fan-forced). Line the base of your baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Savory Butter
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with finely chopped onion, poppyseeds, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Base
Cut the slab of rolls in half horizontally. Spread both the top and bottom halves with the American mustard. Place the bottom half in your lined baking pan. Layer with ham followed by Swiss cheese.
Step 4: Bake Without Lid
Place your baking pan in the oven and bake uncovered for about 10 minutes until the cheese is melted but not browned.
Step 5: Smother with Butter Mixture
Remove from the oven. Place the top half of the rolls back on. Generously pour or spoon over the savory butter mixture ensuring no area is left dry.
Step 6: Bake Covered
Cover your pan with aluminum foil to keep moisture in. Bake for an additional 20 minutes.
Step 7: Pierce for Soakage
After baking covered, remove foil. Use a fork to pierce through where each roll meets to allow excess butter to soak into all parts of the bread.
Step 8: Bake Uncovered
Return to oven uncovered for another 10 minutes or until the top is golden brown and slightly crusty.
Step 9: Serve Hot
Once baked, cut while hot into individual sliders. Enjoy these delicious Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders fresh out of the oven!
How to Serve Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders
Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders are incredibly versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a casual family dinner, these sliders will surely impress.
As Party Appetizers
- Mini Sandwich Platter: Arrange sliders on a large platter for guests to grab easily.
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with sides of honey mustard or ranch dressing for added flavor.
With Fresh Sides
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw complements the rich flavors of the sliders beautifully.
- Potato Chips: Serve with a variety of chips for a satisfying crunch alongside the gooey cheese.
As Game-Day Snacks
- Buffalo Sauce: Drizzle some buffalo sauce over the sliders for a spicy kick.
- Veggie Tray: Pair with a colorful veggie tray to balance out the richness of the sliders.
For a Cozy Dinner
- Soup Pairing: Enjoy sliders with a warm bowl of tomato soup or creamy potato leek soup.
- Salad Side: A simple green salad adds freshness and makes it a complete meal.
How to Perfect Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders
To achieve the ultimate Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders, consider these helpful tips.
- mustard choice: Using quality American mustard enhances the flavor profile significantly.
- Fresh ingredients: Opt for freshly sliced ham and cheese for better taste and texture.
- Evenly spread butter: Ensure you coat all areas of the bread for maximum flavor absorption.
- Monitor baking time: Avoid overbaking; keep an eye on them after covering with foil to maintain softness.
- Let them rest: Allow sliders to cool slightly before cutting; this helps prevent squishing out fillings.
- Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add jalapeños or different cheeses for unique variations.
Best Side Dishes for Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders
Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their deliciousness. Here are some great options:
- Potato Wedges: Crispy wedges seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispiness and zestiness to your meal.
- Sweet Potato Fries: These fries offer a sweet contrast to the savory sliders.
- Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans complements the salty ham perfectly.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings brightness and balances richness.
- Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad is always a crowd-pleaser at gatherings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders can be simple, but it’s easy to make mistakes that could ruin your dish. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Skipping the butter mix – Neglecting to mix the savoury butter ingredients thoroughly can lead to uneven flavor. Always ensure everything is well combined for a delicious result.
- Using cold ham and cheese – Starting with cold ingredients can prevent the cheese from melting properly. Be sure to use room temperature ham and cheese for the best texture.
- Overbaking the sliders – Baking too long can dry out your sliders. Keep an eye on them, especially during the uncovered baking phase, to achieve that perfect golden crust.
- Not piercing before baking – Forgetting to pierce the bread can lead to soggy bottoms. This step helps the butter soak in evenly, so don’t skip it!
- Ignoring portion sizes – Trying to cram too much filling into each slider can cause them to fall apart. Stick to recommended amounts for ease of serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Enjoy within 3–4 days for optimal taste.
Freezing Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders
- Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months; label with dates for easy tracking.
Reheating Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders
- Oven: Preheat to 180°C / 350°F and bake covered for about 10-15 minutes, until hot.
- Microwave: Heat on low power in short intervals (30 seconds), checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, covered, for a few minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders:
How do I make Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders healthier?
You can use whole grain rolls or lower-fat cheeses. Adding vegetables like spinach or peppers can also enhance nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
Can I prepare Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the sliders a day in advance. Just cover them tightly and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
What kind of ham works best for these sliders?
Shaved or thinly sliced ham is ideal. You can also experiment with different types like honey-baked or smoked ham for varied flavors.
Can I use different cheeses for my sliders?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, feel free to substitute with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or any melting cheese you prefer.
Final Thoughts
Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They make a fantastic party dish or weeknight dinner option. Feel free to customize with your favorite meats, cheeses, or even veggies. Give this recipe a try—you’ll love how easy it is!
Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 sliders 1x
Description
Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders are the ultimate comfort food, bringing together savory ham and melty cheese in a deliciously buttery roll. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for gatherings, game days, or a cozy family dinner. With a tangy mustard-onion butter sauce that elevates the flavors, these sliders are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you prepare them ahead of time or whip them up on the spot, they deliver warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces or sides for an unforgettable experience!
Ingredients
- 12 soft white rolls
- 350g thinly sliced ham
- 250g Swiss cheese slices
- 100g unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/3 cup American mustard
- 1/4 onion (finely chopped)
- Poppyseeds
- Worcestershire sauce
- Garlic powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix melted butter with onion, poppyseeds, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Slice the rolls horizontally and spread mustard on both halves. Layer ham and cheese on the bottom half.
- Bake uncovered for 10 minutes until cheese melts.
- Pour the butter mixture over the top half of the rolls before placing it back on.
- Cover with foil and bake for another 20 minutes.
- Pierce the rolls to allow butter to soak in, then bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider (approximately 90g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
