Introduction
Ham and Cheese Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleasing snack that is easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. These mini sandwiches combine savory ham, melted cheese, and soft, buttery rolls, topped with a delicious glaze for a touch of sweetness and crunch. Whether served as a party appetizer, game-day treat, or quick weeknight meal, these sliders are guaranteed to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy days, requiring minimal prep time.
- Mouthwatering Flavor: A delightful blend of savory, cheesy, and buttery goodness.
- Great for Any Occasion: Ideal for potlucks, parties, and even casual family dinners.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with different cheeses, meats, and condiments.
Origin of the Dish
While sliders have been around for decades, the combination of ham and cheese in these bite-sized sandwiches gained popularity as a party staple in the United States. Inspired by classic deli sandwiches, this dish became famous for its simple preparation and addictive taste, making it a must-have for gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients
For the Sliders:
- 12 Hawaiian rolls (or any soft dinner rolls)
- 1/2 lb thinly sliced ham
- 6 slices Swiss cheese (or cheddar, provolone, or mozzarella)
For the Butter Glaze:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp honey (optional for a touch of sweetness)
Method of Preparation
1. Prepare the Sliders:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half, keeping them intact as a sheet.
- Place the bottom half of the rolls in a greased baking dish.
- Layer with ham slices and cheese, then place the top half of the rolls back on.
2. Make the Butter Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, garlic powder, onion powder, and honey.
- Brush the mixture generously over the sliders, ensuring even coating.
3. Bake the Sliders:
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Tips
- Use Hawaiian Rolls: Their slight sweetness complements the salty ham and cheese perfectly.
- Brush Butter Generously: This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
- Cover While Baking: This prevents the tops from burning before the cheese is fully melted.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try using gouda, cheddar, or provolone for different flavors.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Dry Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls work best to absorb the flavors.
- Not Covering While Baking: This can lead to dry or burnt sliders.
- Skipping the Butter Glaze: The glaze is what makes these sliders so irresistible!
Serving Tips
- Serve warm for the best gooey, melty experience.
- Pair with dipping sauces like honey mustard or ranch for extra flavor.
- Enjoy with a side of coleslaw, potato salad, or a fresh green salad.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
- Ham: A good source of protein and essential vitamins like B12.
- Cheese: Provides calcium for strong bones and teeth.
- Garlic and Onion Powder: Packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Mustard: Low in calories and contains beneficial minerals.
Interesting Facts About the Dish
- The term “slider” originally referred to small burgers served at White Castle in the 1920s.
- Hawaiian rolls, often used in this recipe, were inspired by Portuguese sweet bread.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving for convenience.
Summarized Recipe
- Slice the rolls and place the bottom half in a baking dish.
- Layer with ham and cheese, then place the top half of the rolls back on.
- Make the butter glaze and brush it over the sliders.
- Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 5 minutes.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Ham and Cheese Sliders are a simple yet satisfying dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something delicious, these sliders are guaranteed to impress. Try them today and watch them disappear in seconds!
