Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders

Score a touchdown on your game-day menu with these Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders! Perfect for casual gatherings, these cheesy, buttery, savory sliders are easy to make and irresistibly tasty. Whether it’s a family get-together or a party with friends, these sliders will surely impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can have these delicious sliders ready in under an hour.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From game day to potlucks, these sliders fit right in and delight guests of all ages.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of ham and two types of cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Make Ahead Option: Prep them earlier in the day and bake just before serving—perfect for busy hosts!
• Customizable: Feel free to swap meats or cheeses based on your preference for a personalized touch.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the essential tools listed below. Each tool plays a vital role in ensuring your Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders turn out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Serrated bread knife
• Baking sheet
• Glass or ceramic baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Serrated bread knife: Ideal for slicing through soft rolls without squishing them.
• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for broiling the rolls to perfection.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining ingredients easily without mess.

Ingredients

For the Sliders

• 1 package King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls (12-count)
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1/2 pound thinly-sliced deli ham (such as Black Forest)
• 1/4 pound deli-sliced sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 pound deli-sliced Swiss cheese
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1-1/2 teaspoons poppy seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• pinch kosher salt (if needed)

How to Make Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders

Step 1: Prepare the Slider Spread

In a small bowl, stir together mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 2: Slice the Rolls

Using a serrated bread knife, carefully slice the slider buns in half. Keep the tops and bottoms separated, placing them cut side up on a baking sheet.

Step 3: Broil the Rolls

Preheat your oven’s broiler to high. Position the rack about 6 inches from the broiler element. Broil the rolls on their cut sides for 1–2 minutes until they are lightly toasted. Watch closely to avoid burning!

Step 4: Preheat Your Oven

Next, set your oven to 350 degrees F while keeping the rack in the middle position. Lightly spray a glass or light-colored ceramic baking dish with cooking spray.

Step 5: Assemble the Bottom Half

Place the bottom halves of your toasted rolls into the prepared baking dish. Spread more than half of your Dijon-mayo mixture onto these rolls.

Step 6: Layer Ingredients

Layer your sliders as follows:
– Place sharp cheddar cheese
– Add deli ham
– Top with Swiss cheese

Spread any remaining Dijon-mayo mixture over the toasted side of the top halves of the rolls before placing them on top.

Step 7: Prepare Butter Mixture

In another small bowl, mix together melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, onion powder, and a pinch of salt (if desired). Pour this mixture over your assembled sliders using a basting brush to cover evenly.

Step 8: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish with foil and let it stand for about 5 minutes. Bake for 20 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted. Remove foil and continue baking for another 5–10 minutes until tops are golden brown.

Step 9: Serve Warm

Let your sliders rest for a few minutes before cutting them into individual servings. Serve hot alongside potato chips or fries!

How to Serve Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders

Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders are versatile and can be served in many ways. These sliders make a great addition to any gathering or casual meal, and they can be paired with various sides for an unforgettable dining experience.

Game Day Treats

• On a Platter: Arrange the sliders on a large platter for easy serving during game day. This setup makes it simple for guests to grab their favorites.
• With Dipping Sauces: Serve alongside a variety of dipping sauces, such as honey mustard or BBQ sauce, to add a fun twist.

Family Gatherings

• Casual Dinner Option: Serve these sliders as a main dish during family dinners. Pair them with simple salads for a balanced meal.
• Picnic Style: Pack them in lunch boxes for picnics or outdoor gatherings. Their portability makes them perfect for eating on the go.

Parties and Celebrations

• Mini Sandwich Bar: Create a mini sandwich bar with toppings like pickles and jalapeños so guests can customize their own sliders.
• Appetizer Style: Cut the sliders into smaller pieces and serve them as bite-sized appetizers at parties.

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How to Perfect Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders

To achieve the best Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders, follow these handy tips. Each step ensures that your sliders turn out deliciously every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh ham and cheese for maximum flavor. Fresh ingredients significantly enhance the overall taste of the sliders.
• Don’t Overstuff: Avoid packing too much ham or cheese between the buns. This helps ensure that they heat evenly without falling apart.
• Toast the Rolls Lightly: Lightly broiling the rolls adds texture. This step creates a delightful contrast between crispy tops and soft centers.
• Let Them Rest: Allowing the sliders to rest before cutting helps keep them intact. This prevents messy servings while adding to their presentation.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your butter mixture before pouring it over the sliders. Adding more Worcestershire sauce or spices can elevate their flavor profile.
• Serve Hot: Enjoy sliders right out of the oven for the best melty cheese experience. Warm sliders make every bite irresistible!

Best Side Dishes for Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders

Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders pair beautifully with various side dishes that complement their savory flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Crispy Potato Chips: A classic pairing that adds crunch and saltiness, making it an ideal snack alongside your sliders.
2. Coleslaw: A refreshing side that balances the richness of the cheese with its tangy dressing, enhancing your meal experience.
3. Sweet Potato Fries: These provide a sweet contrast to the savory sliders, adding color and flavor to your plate.
4. Garden Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette offers freshness that perfectly offsets the heaviness of baked sliders.
5. Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad is filling yet complements the flavors of ham and cheese nicely, making it a great choice.
6. Pickle Platter: Add some tangy pickles for acidity; they cut through richness while providing a crunchy texture contrast.
7. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring added nutrients and flavors that balance out your meal wonderfully.
8. Fruit Salad: A sweet fruit salad adds brightness to your table, offering a refreshing finish after enjoying rich sliders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your dish’s flavor and texture. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using stale rolls: Fresh rolls make a big difference in taste and texture. Always opt for soft, fresh King’s Hawaiian rolls for the best results.
• Skipping the broiling step: Broiling the buns enhances their flavor by creating a crispy surface. Don’t skip this step; it adds depth to your sliders.
• Overstuffing the sliders: While it’s tempting to add extra cheese or ham, overfilling can make them messy and hard to eat. Stick to the recommended amounts for the best experience.
• Not letting them rest: Allowing sliders to sit after baking helps meld the flavors together. Patience leads to tastier sliders!
• Ignoring oven temperature adjustments: Different pans conduct heat differently. If using a dark pan, lower your oven temperature to prevent burning.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep any leftover butter mixture separate if you plan on reheating.

Freezing Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders

• Wrap sliders tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in intervals of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a lid until warmed through, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders healthier?

You can use whole grain rolls or leaner cuts of ham. Adding veggies like spinach or roasted peppers also boosts nutrition.

Can I customize my Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders?

Absolutely! Feel free to switch out cheeses or add different meats according to your preference.

What should I serve with Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders?

These sliders pair well with potato chips, fries, or a fresh salad. They’re great for parties!

How do I keep my Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders from getting soggy?

Ensure your buns are toasted before assembly, and avoid over-soaking them in butter mixtures.

Final Thoughts

Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. These little bites are perfect for gatherings or game days, allowing you to customize them with your favorite ingredients. Try this recipe today, and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors that will leave everyone craving more!