These baked ham and cheese sliders are little bundles of joy! They feature soft rolls filled with savory ham and gooey cheese, all topped with a buttery seasoning.
You won’t believe how quickly these disappear at parties! I love making a big batch and serving them warm—they’re always a hit with family and friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: Hawaiian rolls are my favorite for their sweetness and softness. If you can’t find them, any soft dinner rolls will work, but try to avoid crusty bread as it won’t have the same tender texture.
Ham: I prefer smoked ham for its flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey ham can be a great substitute. For a vegetarian version, use roasted vegetables or a plant-based meat alternative.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a great tangy flavor. You can switch it up with Swiss cheese for a milder taste, or even mix in some pepper jack for a little kick!
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to, but you can replace it with olive oil if you want to lighten it up. It won’t have the same richness, but it will still work.
How Do I Get the Sliders Extra Gooey and Flavorful?
To achieve gooey, cheesy goodness, the layering technique is key. Place the cheese on top of the ham, as it creates a melty seal from the heat while baking. The buttery topping can enhance flavor and moisture.
- Don’t skip the wrapping step with foil—this traps steam, helping to melt the cheese properly.
- Let them cool slightly before cutting. This helps keep the sliders intact and gooey.
- Feel free to add spices or fresh herbs into the butter mixture for extra depth—things like Italian seasoning, or even a splash of hot sauce can elevate the flavors!
Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Sliders:
- 12 slider sandwich buns (like Hawaiian rolls)
- 12 oz sliced smoked or deli ham
- 12 oz sharp cheddar cheese, sliced
For The Butter Mixture:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 tablespoon minced onion flakes or dried onion
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe requires about 10 minutes of preparation time and an additional 20 minutes of baking time, making it a quick and easy option that’s perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your sliders bake evenly and come out warm and gooey.
2. Prepare the Buns:
Take the slider buns and slice them in half horizontally while keeping them connected as a single unit (this makes assembly easier!). Place the bottom halves of the buns into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring they fit snugly.
3. Add the Ham and Cheese:
Evenly layer the sliced ham over the bottom buns. Next, add a layer of cheddar cheese on top of the ham. Finally, place the top halves of the buns over the cheese, creating delicious little sandwiches.
4. Mix the Butter Mixture:
In a small mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, minced onion, garlic powder, and a pinch of black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well blended and smooth.
5. Coat the Buns:
Drizzle the butter mixture evenly over the top of the buns, making sure to get it into every nook and cranny—you want all the sliders to be flavored!
6. Bake the Sliders:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes. This will allow the cheese to melt nicely and warm the sliders through.
7. Crisp the Tops:
After 15 minutes, carefully remove the foil and return the dish to the oven. Bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes. This step is crucial for creating that beautiful, golden-brown crust on top of the sliders.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done baking, take the sliders out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Use a sharp knife to cut between the individual sliders, and serve them warm. Enjoy your delightful, gooey ham and cheese sliders!
This recipe yields deliciously soft and buttery ham and cheese sliders with a flavorful seasoned glaze on top—perfect for parties, snacks, or easy meals!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with Swiss, provolone, or even pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist. Just make sure to use cheeses that melt well for the best gooey texture!
How Can I Make These Sliders Vegetarian?
To make vegetarian sliders, simply replace the ham with your favorite roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also use hummus or a plant-based deli slice for added flavor.
Can I Prepare These Sliders in Advance?
Yes, you can assemble the sliders the night before! Just keep the assembled sliders covered in the fridge, then bake them the next day. If they’re refrigerated, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until they’re heated through. Enjoy them again!
