The Ultimate Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe
Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or an easy weeknight meal? These Ham and Cheese Sliders are the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. Made with Hawaiian sweet rolls, Black Forest ham, Gruyere Swiss cheese, and a delicious honey mustard spread, these sliders are baked to golden perfection with a buttery poppy seed topping. Whether you’re hosting a party, game day, or just craving a warm and cheesy treat, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love These Ham and Cheese Sliders
- Perfect for any occasion: Great for parties, potlucks, or an easy family dinner.
- Quick and easy: Prep time is minimal, and they bake in just 25 minutes.
- Irresistibly delicious: The combination of sweet rolls, savory ham, melty cheese, and tangy honey mustard is absolutely mouthwatering.
- Make-ahead friendly: Prep them in advance and bake when ready.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Sandwiches:
- 1 (12-count) package Hawaiian sweet rolls
- 1 pound thinly sliced Black Forest deli ham
- 12 ounces thinly sliced Gruyere Swiss cheese
For the Honey Mustard Spread:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (or more to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
For the Poppy Seed Butter:
- 1/2 cup (8 tablespoons) melted unsalted butter (omit salt if using salted butter)
- 2 tablespoons minced parsley
- 1 tablespoon dried minced onion
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons poppy seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon each salt, pepper, garlic powder
How to Make Ham and Cheese Sliders
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Slice and Toast the Rolls
Using a large serrated knife, slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the rolls connected. Place the bottom half in the baking dish and bake for 5 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C).
Step 3: Make the Honey Mustard Spread & Poppy Seed Butter
In a medium bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the honey mustard spread. In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the poppy seed butter ingredients.
Step 4: Assemble the Sliders
- Spread half of the honey mustard mixture over the toasted bottom slab of rolls.
- Evenly layer the ham and Gruyere Swiss cheese on top.
- Spread the remaining honey mustard on the inside of the top slab and place it over the sandwiches.
Step 5: Add the Poppy Seed Butter
Slowly and evenly pour the poppy seed butter over the top of the rolls, using a brush or spatula to spread it evenly.
Step 6: Let the Sliders Rest
Cover with aluminum foil and let the sliders sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
- Bake covered at 350°F for 20 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes until the tops are golden brown. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Slice into individual sliders and serve immediately. These are best enjoyed warm and melty, straight from the oven!
Pro Tips for the Best Sliders
✅ Use quality ham and cheese – Black Forest ham and Gruyere provide the best flavor, but you can substitute with your favorites. ✅ Toast the rolls first – This prevents them from getting soggy while baking. ✅ Don’t skip the resting time – It helps the flavors meld together for the most delicious sliders. ✅ Make them ahead – Assemble the sliders, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Variations & Customizations
Love this recipe? Try these fun variations!
- Turkey & Swiss Sliders – Swap ham for turkey and use Swiss cheese.
- Roast Beef & Cheddar – Use roast beef and sharp cheddar cheese for a bolder flavor.
- Spicy Sliders – Add extra hot sauce or sliced jalapeños for a kick.
- BBQ Ham Sliders – Replace honey mustard with BBQ sauce for a smoky twist.
What to Serve with Ham and Cheese Sliders
Pair these warm and cheesy sliders with:
- Potato chips or fries for a crispy side
- Coleslaw for a refreshing contrast
- Pickles to balance the flavors
- A fresh salad for a lighter touch
Storing & Reheating Leftovers
To Store:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To Reheat:
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second increments until warmed through.
Final Thoughts
These Ham and Cheese Sliders are the ultimate easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing recipe that works for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, main dish, or party snack, they’re sure to be a favorite. Give them a try and let me know how you like them!
