Hawaiian ham and cheese sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleasing dish, perfect for parties, game days, or a simple family dinner. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It requires minimal ingredients and time, yet delivers maximum flavor. These sliders can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving, making them a convenient option for any gathering.
1. Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe
Ingredients
For the Sliders
- 12 Hawaiian rolls (such as King’s Hawaiian)
- 1 pound deli ham, thinly sliced
- 12 slices Swiss cheese (or your preferred cheese)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess)
For the Buttery Glaze
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2. Prepare the Rolls
Without separating the Hawaiian rolls, slice them in half horizontally, creating a top and bottom section. Place the bottom half of the rolls in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3. Assemble the Sliders
Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise over the bottom half of the rolls (optional, but it adds creaminess). Layer the ham slices evenly over the rolls, followed by the Swiss cheese slices. Place the top half of the rolls over the cheese to complete the sandwiches.
Step 4. Make the Buttery Glaze
In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, honey (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to combine.
Step 5. Brush the Sliders
Generously brush the buttery glaze over the top of the assembled sliders, ensuring the tops are well-coated. The glaze will soak into the rolls and provide extra flavor as they bake.
Step 6. Bake the Sliders
Cover the sliders with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7. Serve
Once baked, remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Use a sharp knife to cut the sliders into individual sandwiches along the roll lines. Serve hot and enjoy!
2. Tips for Perfect Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders
Use Soft Hawaiian Rolls: The soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls are essential for this recipe, as they provide the perfect contrast to the savory ham and cheese. Their sweetness balances the salty and savory flavors of the filling.
Customize the Cheese: Swiss cheese is the traditional choice for these sliders, but you can easily switch it up with other cheeses. Cheddar, provolone, or mozzarella all melt well and offer different flavor profiles to suit your tastes.
Add Extra Fillings: For a more substantial slider, consider adding extra fillings like pickles, caramelized onions, or a thin layer of honey mustard for added flavor and texture.
Make Ahead for Convenience: These sliders can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply cover the assembled sliders tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. When ready, brush with the glaze and pop them in the oven.
3. Variations
Turkey and Cranberry Sliders: Replace the ham with sliced turkey and add a layer of cranberry sauce for a Thanksgiving-inspired twist.
BBQ Ham and Cheese Sliders: Spread a thin layer of barbecue sauce on the rolls before adding the ham and cheese. This adds a smoky, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet Hawaiian rolls.
Ham, Pineapple, and Cheese Sliders: For a tropical twist, add thin slices of pineapple between the ham and cheese. The pineapple’s sweetness complements the ham and enhances the Hawaiian flavor profile.
Spicy Ham and Cheese Sliders: Add sliced jalapeños or a layer of spicy mustard to give your sliders a kick. You can also use pepper jack cheese for an extra spicy touch.
Vegetarian Sliders: For a meatless option, replace the ham with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables. Combine with your favorite melty cheese for a delicious vegetarian take on this dish.
4. Serving Suggestions
Hawaiian ham and cheese sliders are versatile and can be served as part of a larger meal or as a snack. Here are a few serving ideas:
Appetizer: Serve the sliders as a bite-sized appetizer for parties, game days, or casual gatherings.
Main Dish: Pair the sliders with sides like potato salad, coleslaw, or macaroni and cheese for a complete meal.
Brunch: These sliders can be a great addition to a brunch spread, alongside fruit salad, quiche, or deviled eggs.
Picnics: Pack these sliders for a picnic. They are easy to transport and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Hawaiian ham and cheese sliders are a quick and delicious dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. The combination of savory ham, melted cheese, and sweet Hawaiian rolls is an instant hit, and the buttery glaze takes these sliders to the next level. With minimal prep and baking time, these sliders are an easy go-to for any occasion, from casual gatherings to holiday parties.
