Are you looking for a quick and delicious dish that everyone will love? Look no further than these mouthwatering ham and cheese sliders! Perfectly baked with a melty cheese layer and savory ham nestled between soft slider buns, they make for an ideal appetizer or main course at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these sliders are sure to be a hit. With minimal preparation time and ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen, this recipe is both accessible and satisfying. In just about 30 minutes, you can whip up these delightful bites that will leave your guests asking for seconds. So grab your apron and let’s dive into making the best ham and cheese sliders you’ve ever tasted!
Why You’ll Love This ham and cheese sliders
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for ham and cheese sliders
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Slider Buns: Choose soft slider buns or Hawaiian rolls for an added sweetness that complements the savory filling
- Sliced Ham: Opt for high-quality deli ham; honey or smoked varieties work particularly well
- Sliced Cheese: Swiss or cheddar cheese provides excellent meltability; feel free to mix varieties for unique flavor
- Butter: Use unsalted butter to brush the tops of the buns before baking for a golden finish
- Poppy Seeds: This optional topping adds texture and flavor; sprinkle them on top of the buttered buns before baking
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make ham and cheese sliders
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Assemble the Sliders
Slice the slider buns in half horizontally without separating them. Place the bottom half of the buns in the greased baking dish.
Step 3: Layer Ham and Cheese
Layer slices of ham evenly over the bottom half of the buns. Next, add slices of cheese on top of the ham to ensure every bite is cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Cap It Off
Place the top half of the buns over the layered filling. Press down gently to help everything stick together.
Step 5: Prepare Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, melt about four tablespoons of butter. If desired, mix in poppy seeds for extra flavor.
Step 6: Brush Before Baking
Brush the melted butter mixture generously over the top of each bun. Bake in your preheated oven for approximately 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Transfer to plates and enjoy these sliders warm as an irresistible snack or meal option!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the ingredients overnight
How to Serve ham and cheese sliders
This ham and cheese sliders is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the ham and cheese sliders by assembling them without baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This allows flavors to meld before cooking.
- Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure they are cooled completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.
- Reheating: Reheat ham and cheese sliders in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent browning while warming.
FAQs for ham and cheese sliders :
What are ham and cheese sliders?
Ham and cheese sliders are small sandwiches made with slices of ham and cheese, typically served on slider buns. These delightful bites are perfect for parties, game days, or casual family dinners. They can be customized with various types of bread, cheeses, and additional toppings like mustard or pickles. The combination of savory ham and melty cheese makes them a crowd-pleaser. You can also prepare them in the oven or air fryer for a crispy finish. These sliders are not only easy to make but also a great option for meal prep since they can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated later.
How do you make ham and cheese sliders?
To make ham and cheese sliders, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice your slider buns in half and lay the bottom halves on a baking sheet. Layer slices of ham and cheese over the buns, then place the top halves back on. For added flavor, mix melted butter with garlic powder and brush it over the top of the buns before baking. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is gooey and the buns are golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly before serving. This simple recipe is quick to prepare, making it ideal for gatherings.
Can I customize my ham and cheese sliders?
Absolutely! One of the best things about ham and cheese sliders is their versatility. You can experiment with different types of bread, such as pretzel or brioche rolls. For cheeses, try Swiss, cheddar, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Additionally, you can add toppings like caramelized onions, jalapeños, or fresh herbs to elevate the flavor profile. If you’re looking to switch up the meat, turkey or chicken can also work well in this recipe. Customizing your sliders allows you to cater to different tastes at any gathering.
Are ham and cheese sliders suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Ham and cheese sliders are an excellent choice for meal prep. You can assemble them in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warm. This convenience makes them perfect for busy weeknights or quick lunches. You can also freeze baked sliders; just wrap them tightly before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to eat them again.
What sides pair well with ham and cheese sliders?
Ham and cheese sliders go well with various sides that complement their savory flavors. Classic choices include potato chips or fries for a crunchy contrast. A side salad with fresh greens adds a refreshing touch that balances out the richness of the sliders. For something heartier, consider serving baked beans or coleslaw alongside your meal. These sides enhance the overall dining experience while providing variety on your plate.
How should I store leftover ham and cheese sliders?
Storing leftover ham and cheese sliders is simple! If you have any remaining after your gathering, let them cool down completely before placing them in an airtight container. Refrigerate leftovers to keep them fresh for up to three days. When reheating, cover them with foil to prevent them from drying out in the oven or use a microwave-safe dish if using a microwave. For longer storage options, consider freezing your baked sliders—just remember to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in freezer bags.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, ham and cheese sliders offer a deliciously convenient option for any occasion—from casual family dinners to festive gatherings with friends. Their versatility allows you to customize ingredients according to personal preferences while maintaining their delicious core flavors of savory ham paired with melty cheese. Preparing these delightful bites is straightforward; they require minimal time yet yield impressive results that will satisfy both adults and kids alike.
Remember that leftovers store well in both refrigerators and freezers so you can enjoy tasty snacks throughout the week without additional effort! Whether you choose classic preparations or get creative with toppings and breads, these ham and cheese sliders will undoubtedly become a favorite addition to your recipe repertoire!
Print
Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
Ham and cheese sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining savory ham and gooey cheese nestled in soft slider buns. Perfect for game days, parties, or casual family dinners, these sliders require just 30 minutes of prep time. With a buttery topping and optional poppy seeds, they come out of the oven golden brown and irresistible. Customize them easily by adding your favorite ingredients or spices for a personal touch.
Ingredients
- Slider buns (or Hawaiian rolls)
- Sliced ham (deli quality)
- Sliced cheese (Swiss or cheddar)
- Unsalted butter
- Optional: Poppy seeds for topping
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Slice the slider buns in half and place the bottoms in the dish.
3. Layer the ham evenly over the buns, followed by slices of cheese.
4. Cap with the top half of the buns and press down gently.
5. Melt butter in a small bowl and brush over the tops of the buns; sprinkle with poppy seeds if desired.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and cheese is melted.
Notes
– For added flavor, mix garlic powder into the melted butter before brushing.
– Feel free to substitute turkey or chicken for a variation.
Nutrition
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 10g