Ham and Cheese Sliders

These Ham and Cheese Sliders are a delightful treat that combines tender rolls filled with savory ham and gooey cheese. Perfect for parties, game days, or as a quick weeknight dinner, these sliders are sure to please everyone at your table. The unique poppy seed butter sauce elevates these simple sandwiches to a new level of flavor, making them irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: These sliders can be prepared in just 10 minutes, making them a great choice for busy nights.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With their delicious combination of ham and Swiss cheese, these sliders are always a hit at gatherings.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them warm as an appetizer or alongside sides for a complete meal.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Assemble the sliders ahead of time for easy baking when you’re ready to serve.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or swap out ingredients to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this mouthwatering recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large serrated knife
• Baking dish or heavy cookie sheet
• Medium mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large serrated knife: Ideal for slicing rolls without squishing them, ensuring perfect sandwich bases.
• Baking dish or heavy cookie sheet: Provides even cooking space for all sliders, so they bake evenly.
• Medium mixing bowl: Great for mixing larger quantities of sauce without spilling.

Ingredients

For the Sliders

• 24 white dinner rolls or slider rolls
• 24 honey ham slices
• 24 small slices Swiss cheese

For the Sauce

• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/3 cup miracle whip
• 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
• 1 1/2 Tablespoons yellow mustard
• 1/2 cup butter (melted)
• 1 Tablespoon minced onion
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

How to Make Ham and Cheese Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.

Step 2: Prepare the Rolls

1. Slice the rolls lengthwise with a large serrated knife.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and miracle whip.
3. Spread the mixture onto both sides of the center of each roll.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

1. Place a slice of honey ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on the bottom half of each roll.
2. Close the rolls and place them into a large baking dish or heavy cookie sheet. Arrange them very close together.

Step 4: Make the Poppy Seed Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together all of the poppy seed sauce ingredients until combined.
2. Pour melted butter evenly over all of the sandwiches—just enough to cover the tops; you do not have to use all of it.
3. Let sit for about 10 minutes until the butter sets slightly.

Step 5: Bake the Sliders

1. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cheese melts.
2. Uncover and cook for an additional 2 minutes until tops are slightly brown and crispy.

Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Ham and Cheese Sliders! Note that they can be assembled ahead but should ideally be cooked within a day to avoid sogginess from the mayo mixture. Store any leftovers in an airtight container.

How to Serve Ham and Cheese Sliders

Ham and Cheese Sliders are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a fun party. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your slider experience.

For a Casual Family Dinner

• Fresh Salad: Pair the sliders with a crisp green salad for a light and refreshing side.
• Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits adds a sweet touch to your meal.

At a Game Day Gathering

• Chips and Dip: Serve with tortilla chips and salsa or guacamole for a crunchy contrast.
• Veggie Tray: A platter of fresh vegetables with ranch dressing offers a healthy option that complements the sliders.

For Kids’ Parties

• Macaroni and Cheese: This classic comfort food is always a hit with kids and pairs well with ham and cheese flavors.
• Mini Corn Dogs: Fun and easy-to-eat, these will keep the little ones happy during the party.

As Party Appetizers

• Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites can complement the sliders nicely for an elegant touch.
• Deviled Eggs: A classic appetizer that adds variety to your table.

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How to Perfect Ham and Cheese Sliders

To ensure your Ham and Cheese Sliders turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose quality rolls: Use fresh, soft rolls for the best texture and flavor.
• Evenly distribute fillings: Make sure each slider has equal amounts of ham and cheese for consistent taste.
• Customize toppings: Feel free to add extras like pickles or jalapeños for added flavor.
• Keep an eye on baking time: Monitor closely to avoid overcooking; you want melted cheese without burnt tops.
• Let them rest before serving: Allow sliders to cool slightly after baking for easier handling.
• Store leftovers properly: Keep any remaining sliders in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Ham and Cheese Sliders

Ham and Cheese Sliders can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some fantastic pairings.

1. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that balance the richness of the sliders.
2. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make a hearty side dish option.
3. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans offer comfort alongside your sliders.
4. Onion Rings: Crunchy onion rings add a delightful texture that contrasts with soft sliders.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn is a summer favorite that pairs beautifully with ham flavors.
6. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumber salad brings lightness to your meal while enhancing taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Ham and Cheese Sliders, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the sauce: Not using enough of the poppy seed butter sauce can lead to dry sliders. Make sure to cover the tops adequately for maximum flavor.
• Overbaking: Leaving the sliders in the oven too long can make them hard. Keep an eye on them, especially during the last few minutes.
• Using stale rolls: Freshness matters! Stale rolls can ruin the texture of your sandwiches. Always opt for fresh slider rolls for the best results.
• Assembling too early: Preparing your sliders too far in advance can make them soggy due to the mayo mixture. Assemble only a few hours before baking for optimal taste.
• Not covering while baking: Failing to cover with foil initially can cause uneven cooking and may dry out the tops. Always cover them until they are nearly done.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Ham and Cheese Sliders in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Ham and Cheese Sliders

• Wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Ham and Cheese Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 10-12 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place sliders in a skillet over medium heat, cover with a lid, and heat until warm, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Ham and Cheese Sliders?

Ham and Cheese Sliders are small sandwiches made with ham and Swiss cheese, typically baked with a buttery poppy seed sauce that adds flavor.

Can I customize my Ham and Cheese Sliders?

Absolutely! You can add different types of cheese, switch up the ham for turkey or chicken, or even include vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.

How many servings do these sliders make?

This recipe yields 24 servings, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

Can I prepare these sliders a day ahead?

Yes, you can assemble them ahead of time but avoid adding mayo too early as it may make the rolls soggy.

Final Thoughts

These Ham and Cheese Sliders are not only simple to make but also incredibly satisfying. Their versatility allows you to customize flavors based on your preferences. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a party treat, these delightful sliders are sure to impress everyone at the table. Try them today!