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 favourite is excellent big-batch party food that is leftover Christmas ham-worthy. The mustard and onion really works in this, lending savouriness and tang that sets 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

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these sliders ready in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a game day, birthday party, or holiday gathering, these sliders are always a hit.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of mustard, onion, and melty cheese creates a savory taste that elevates traditional ham sandwiches.
• Customizable: Feel free to switch up the meats or cheeses to suit your taste preferences.
• Great for Leftovers: These sliders are perfect for using up leftover ham from holiday meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders, gather your tools for an efficient cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking pan
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: A good quality pan ensures even cooking and easy removal of your sliders.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients without mess, making it easier to prepare your savory butter mixture.

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
• 350g/12 oz ham (shaved or thinly sliced, up to 500g/1lb)
• 250g/8 oz Swiss cheese (or other melting cheese slices)

For the Savory Butter Mixture

• 100g (7 tbsp) unsalted butter (melted)
• 1/4 onion (finely chopped)
• 2 tbsp American mustard
• 1 tbsp poppyseeds

Seasonings

• 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 a 23 x 33cm / 13 x 9 pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Savory Butter Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Melted butter
2. Finely chopped onion
3. Additional mustard
4. Poppyseeds
5. Worcestershire sauce
6. Garlic powder
7. Salt
8. Black pepper

Mix all ingredients together until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders Base

Cut the slab of rolls in half horizontally. Spread both the top and bottom halves generously with the American mustard. Place the bottom half in the prepared baking pan.

Step 4: Layer with Ham and Cheese

Layer the bottom half of the rolls with shaved ham followed by Swiss cheese slices. Do not place the top half yet!

Step 5: Bake Without Lid

Bake uncovered for about 10 minutes until the cheese is nicely melted.

Step 6: Smother with Butter Mixture

Remove from oven and place the top half of the rolls on top. Pour or spoon over your savory butter mixture evenly across all rolls so every piece gets coated.

Step 7: Cover and Bake Again

Cover the entire dish with aluminum foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes.

Step 8: Encourage Soakage

After baking covered, remove foil. Use a fork to pierce through where each corner meets, allowing excess butter to soak into the bread.

Step 9: Final Bake Uncovered

Bake uncovered for another 10 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.

Step 10: Serve Hot

Once baked, cut while hot into individual sliders and serve immediately! Enjoy your delicious Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders!

How to Serve Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders

Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders are a crowd-pleasing delight that can easily be customized to suit any gathering. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your slider experience.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Honey Mustard – A sweet and tangy sauce that complements the savory flavors of the sliders.
• Barbecue Sauce – Adds a smoky kick that’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
• Ranch Dressing – Creamy and herby, it provides a cool contrast to the warm sliders.

Create a Slider Platter

• Fresh Veggies – Add sliced cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers for a refreshing crunch.
• Pickles – A variety of pickles can enhance the flavors and add a nice tang.
• Chips – Offer different types of chips like potato or tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch.

Serve with Salads

• Coleslaw – A creamy coleslaw adds texture and balances the richness of the sliders.
• Potato Salad – A classic side that pairs well with any sandwich, especially at picnics or gatherings.

Offer Drinks

• Iced Tea – A refreshing beverage that complements the savory flavors of the sliders.
• Lemonade – Sweet and tart, it’s a great choice for summer parties.

Save it!

How to Perfect Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders

Making Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders is easy, but there are ways to ensure they turn out perfectly every time. Follow these tips for slider success.

• Choose Fresh Rolls – Using soft, fresh rolls will keep your sliders light and fluffy.
• Don’t Overfill – While ham and cheese are delicious, too much filling can make them hard to handle.
• Let Them Rest – Allow sliders to sit for a few minutes after baking; this helps flavors meld together.
• Customize Your Cheese – Experiment with different melting cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for unique flavor profiles.
• Use Quality Ham – Opt for high-quality ham for better flavor; deli meats can vary greatly in taste.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders

Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders pair beautifully with various sides. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. French Fries – Crispy fries are always a hit; try seasoning them with garlic powder or Parmesan cheese.
2. Sweet Potato Wedges – Baked sweet potato wedges offer a healthier twist and natural sweetness.
3. Macaroni Salad – A creamy macaroni salad provides comfort alongside your sliders.
4. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing balances the richness of the sliders perfectly.
5. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn brings summer vibes to any gathering.
6. Fruit Skewers – Fresh fruit on skewers is a fun way to add sweetness without being heavy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders can be a delight, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Preheating – Always preheat your oven. If you skip this step, your sliders won’t cook evenly, which can affect the cheese melting perfectly.

• Overstuffing the Rolls – While it’s tempting to add more ham and cheese, overstuffing can lead to spills and uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.

• Not Letting It Rest – Allow your sliders to rest after baking for a few minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and makes them easier to cut without falling apart.

• Using Cold Ingredients – Make sure your butter is melted and your cheese is at room temperature. Cold ingredients can hinder proper melting and flavor absorption.

• Ignoring the Butter Sauce – Don’t skimp on pouring the butter mixture over the top of your sliders. This adds essential moisture and flavor that enhances the dish.

Save it!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders

• Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders

• Oven – Preheat to 180°C / 350°F. Cover with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Place on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – In a skillet over medium heat, place sliders face down with a lid on until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders:

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a different flavor profile.

How do I make sliders healthier?

Consider using whole grain rolls or turkey instead of ham, along with low-fat cheese options.

Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble them, cover tightly, and store in the fridge overnight before baking them when ready.

What can I serve with Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders?

These sliders pair well with salads, chips, or a warm bowl of soup for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding veggies or swapping meats. Perfect for parties or family gatherings, these sliders will surely impress everyone. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!