Ham and Cheese Sliders
Ham and Cheese Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any casual get-together or family dinner. These mini sandwiches are packed with gooey melted cheese and savory ham, all nestled inside…
Tip: save now, cook later.Ham and Cheese Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any casual get-together or family dinner. These mini sandwiches are packed with gooey melted cheese and savory ham, all nestled inside soft, buttery rolls. The combination of melty cheese and tender ham makes every bite a little celebration of comfort food.
I love making these sliders because they’re so easy to pull together but still feel special. My favorite trick is to brush the tops with a little garlic butter before baking—it makes the rolls perfectly golden and adds just the right hint of flavor. Plus, they come together in under 30 minutes, which means you have more time to chat or relax with your guests.
These sliders are perfect for serving alongside a simple salad or some crispy chips, making them a great choice for a quick lunch or casual dinner. Whenever I bring these to a party, they disappear fast, which just goes to show how much everyone enjoys these warm, cheesy bites. They’re the kind of food that brings people together without any fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: Soft, fluffy buns make these sliders inviting and perfect to hold all the fillings. If you can’t find slider buns, dinner rolls or small sandwich buns work great too.
Ham: I like deli ham for its convenience and flavor, but you can also try smoked ham or even turkey for a different taste. Just make sure it’s sliced thin so it layers well.
Cheddar and Swiss Cheese: The combo offers a great balance of sharp and creamy flavors. Swiss melts beautifully, and cheddar adds boldness. You can swap cheddar for gouda or provolone and Swiss with mozzarella.
Butter, Mustard & Herbs: This mix brushed on top adds a golden finish and extra flavor. If you don’t have Dijon mustard, yellow mustard or a little honey mustard can be good swaps. The herbs and garlic powder really lift the flavor here.
How Do I Make Sure the Sliders Bake Perfectly Soft and Gooey?
Keep the sliders covered with foil for most of the baking time. This traps steam and keeps the bread soft while melting the cheese. Removing the foil near the end lets the tops get that nice golden color. Here’s the flow:
- Arrange sliders in a baking dish and cover tightly with foil.
- Bake 15 minutes covered to melt cheese and warm fillings.
- Uncover and bake 5-7 minutes more to brown the tops and crisp slightly.
Also, brushing the butter-herb mix before baking adds flavor and helps create a beautiful golden crust without drying out the bread. Letting the sliders rest a couple of minutes before slicing helps everything settle and avoids cheese spills.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – fits the sliders perfectly and helps them bake evenly.
- Basting brush – great for spreading the butter mixture smoothly over the buns.
- Sharp knife – makes clean cuts through the sliders without squishing them.
- Mixing bowl – easy for combining the butter, mustard, and herbs before brushing.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ham for turkey or roast beef to change the sandwich’s taste and keep things interesting.
- Add a slice of pickle or a spread of honey mustard for a tangy twist that cuts the richness.
- Try pepper jack or mozzarella cheese for a milder or spicier melt.
- Mix in some caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
How to Make Ham and Cheese Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (small dinner rolls)
- 12 slices deli ham
- 12 slices cheddar cheese
- 12 slices Swiss cheese
For The Butter Topping:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 to 22 minutes to bake. Including a couple of minutes to cool before slicing, you’ll have warm, melty sliders ready in just about 30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Dish and Slider Buns:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to keep the sliders from sticking. Carefully slice the slider buns horizontally, keeping them together if possible for easy assembly. Place the bottom halves of the buns evenly in the baking dish.
2. Layer the Ham and Cheese:
Evenly place slices of deli ham over the bottom buns. On top of the ham, layer the cheddar cheese slices, followed by the Swiss cheese slices. Then cover with the tops of the buns to complete your sandwiches.
3. Mix and Brush the Butter Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, dried Italian seasoning, poppy seeds if using, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until everything is blended. Use a brush to generously coat the tops of the buns with this flavorful butter mix.
4. Bake and Finish:
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake the sliders for 15 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the sandwiches to warm through. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 5 to 7 minutes to let the tops get beautifully golden and slightly crispy.
5. Cool and Serve:
Take the sliders out of the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. This brief rest helps the cheese set just enough so they slice nicely. Cut between each bun to separate your delicious ham and cheese sliders, and serve warm.
Can I Use Frozen Slider Buns for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the buns at room temperature before assembling. This helps them warm evenly in the oven and stay soft and fluffy.
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. Assemble the sliders and cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftover Sliders?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warmed through to keep the bread soft.
Can I Customize the Cheese and Meat?
Definitely! Feel free to swap the ham for turkey or roast beef, and try different cheeses like provolone, mozzarella, or pepper jack to suit your taste.