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Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders

There’s something so comforting about the aroma of warm, cheesy goodness wafting through the kitchen, don’t you think? I remember rainy afternoons spent at my grandmother’s house, where the sun barely peeked through the clouds but our hearts were warmed by her cheesy and delicious baked slider creations. She’d gather us around the table, a platter of golden, gooey sliders fresh out of the oven enchanted us as she shared stories of her youth, the laughter echoing through the room like the melody of a beloved song.

These Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders have that same cozy charm, evoking nostalgia with every bite. They’re perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, quickly bringing everyone together for a delightful experience. Let me tell you, these sliders are not just any ordinary sandwich! They are a symphony of flavors, wrapped in sweet rolls, and baked to perfection. This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for those busy weeknight dinners.
Deliciously Cheesy: With layers of sharp cheddar and creamy Swiss cheese, each bite is bursting with flavor!
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, these sliders are always a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them ahead of time, and simply pop them in the oven when ready to serve.
Versatile: Feel free to mix it up with your favorite deli meats and cheeses, making it a flexible recipe for any occasion.

What You’ll Need

Gather these simple ingredients:

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

Let’s make it together! Follow these simple steps for a delightful batch of sliders:

To make the slider spread, stir together the mayonnaise and 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard in a small bowl. Set aside.
Using a serrated bread knife, slice the slider buns in half to separate the tops from the bottoms. Place them cut side up on a baking sheet.
Preheat your oven’s broiler to high, with the rack in the second position down from the top (about 6 inches from the broiler element). Broil the rolls on the cut sides only for 1-2 minutes, until lightly toasted. Watch them closely, as they can burn quickly!
Next, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F with the rack in the middle position. Lightly spray a glass or light-colored ceramic baking dish with cooking spray (if using a pan with a darker interior, reduce the oven temperature to 325 degrees F).
Place the bottom half of the toasted rolls in the prepared baking dish. Spread a little more than half of the Dijon-mayo mixture onto the rolls in the baking dish.
Assemble the sliders by layering the cheeses and meat in the following order: cheddar cheese, ham, Swiss cheese. Spread the remaining Dijon-mayo onto the toasted side of the top half of the rolls and place them over the Swiss cheese layer.
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, onion powder, and a pinch of salt (if using). Pour over the sliders, using a basting brush to distribute the butter and poppy seeds evenly over the tops and sides—it’s okay if some of the butter pools around the sliders in the baking dish.
Cover with foil and let stand for 5 minutes. Bake for 20 minutes, until the sliders are heated through and the cheese is melted. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the tops of the rolls are golden and crispy. Keep a close watch during this last stage so they don’t get too dark.
Let the sliders stand for a few minutes, then cut the rolls into individual servings. Serve hot with potato chips, fries, or your favorite sandwich sides.

Delicious Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative! Here are some delightful twists on this classic recipe:

Add Veggies: Layer in some fresh spinach, roasted red peppers, or sliced tomatoes for a colorful and nutritious addition.
Zesty Spices: Mix a little cayenne or crushed red pepper into the mayonnaise for a kick of flavor.
Swap Cheeses: Use pepper jack for a spicier, more indulgent slider, or try creamy Gouda for a rich twist.
BBQ Style: Brush the inside of the rolls with your favorite BBQ sauce instead of mustard for a smokier flavor experience.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

Here are some of my best kitchen secrets to ensure your sliders turn out perfect every time:

Make Ahead: Assemble the sliders and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they go in cold.
Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to use turkey or roast beef instead of ham, and experiment with different cheeses based on your family’s favorites.
Slicing Tips: Use a serrated knife to cut the rolls neatly, ensuring they hold together beautifully during assembly.

Nutrition Information per Serving

Serving Size: 1 Slider
Calories: 280
Carbohydrates: 22g
Sugar: 2g
Fat: 18g
Protein: 10g
Sodium: 800mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! Assemble the sliders up to a day in advance, cover them, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

Can I use different ingredients?
Yes! Feel free to customize with different types of deli meats, cheeses, or even add your favorite vegetables!

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

How long does it last?
If stored properly in the refrigerator, these sliders will last for about 3 days.

A Cozy Closing Note

These Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders are not just a recipe; they are a warm embrace filled with memories and delightful flavors. They’re perfect for gatherings, parties, or even a simple family dinner. I hope this dish brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine. Save these Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders to your Dinner Ideas board so they’re ready when you need a cozy treat! Happy eating!