Hawaiian ham and cheese sliders are a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of Hawaiian rolls with savory layers of ham and cheese, creating a perfect balance of flavors. These sliders are incredibly versatile, making them ideal for any occasion—whether it’s a casual family gathering, a festive party, or a game day celebration.
Their easy preparation and minimal cooking time mean you can whip them up quickly, while their warm, gooey filling is sure to please both kids and adults alike. With a buttery topping and optional seasonings like poppy seeds and garlic, these sliders not only taste amazing but also look appealing.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 (12-count) package of Hawaiian sweet rolls (like King’s Hawaiian)
- 1 lb thinly sliced ham (honey ham or black forest ham works great)
- 12 slices Swiss cheese (or your preferred cheese)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Cooking spray (for greasing the dish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Make the Sauce: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 to 10 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, and Worcestershire sauce, and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Sliders: Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the bottoms and tops intact. Place the bottom halves of the rolls in the prepared baking dish. Spoon about 2/3 of the onion mixture over the bottom layer of rolls, spreading it evenly.
- Add the Ham and Cheese: Layer slices of ham evenly over the bottom rolls, followed by slices of Swiss cheese. Place the top halves of the rolls over the cheese to create sandwiches.
- Brush the Tops: Using a pastry brush, generously spread the remaining onion and butter mixture over the top of the rolls.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the tops of the sliders are golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Serve: Once done, remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Slice the sliders along the pre-cut lines of the rolls and serve warm.
Pro Tips for Perfect Sliders:
- Use Quality Ham:
Opt for freshly sliced deli ham rather than pre-packaged ham for the best texture and flavor. Honey-baked ham works well due to its slight sweetness, which pairs perfectly with the Hawaiian rolls. - Cheese Selection:
While Swiss cheese is the classic choice, a blend of cheeses such as mozzarella or gouda can add a creamier texture. Experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite combination. - Add a Crunch:
For a twist, add a layer of pickles, caramelized onions, or thin slices of tomatoes inside the sliders for extra texture and flavor. You can also sprinkle some crispy bacon bits over the ham before adding the cheese for a smoky flavor. - Preventing Sogginess:
To avoid soggy sliders, make sure to evenly distribute the butter mixture, and if you’re adding extras like pickles, pat them dry before adding them to the sliders.
FAQs About Hawaiian Sliders
1. Can I make these sliders ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the sliders the night before and refrigerate them, covered with foil. When you’re ready to bake them, just pop them in the oven and add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold from the fridge.
2. Can I freeze leftover sliders? Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each slider tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container. Reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through.
3. What other meats can I use besides ham? These sliders are versatile! You can substitute ham with turkey, roast beef, or even a vegetarian option like roasted vegetables or portobello mushrooms. The key is to keep the cheese and buttery sauce for the signature flavor.
4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, to make gluten-free Hawaiian sliders, simply use gluten-free rolls. Many grocery stores offer gluten-free Hawaiian-style rolls, or you can make your own.
Slider Variations to Try:
- Turkey and Cranberry Sliders:
Swap the ham for roasted turkey and add a thin layer of cranberry sauce. This is perfect for using up Thanksgiving leftovers. - BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders:
Replace the ham with pulled pork and add a layer of BBQ sauce before baking. Top with pickles for a southern twist. - Vegetarian Sliders:
For a meatless version, layer grilled vegetables (like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms) with provolone or mozzarella cheese. You can still use the buttery poppy seed sauce to keep the flavors rich.
History Sliders:
Sliders originated as small, flavorful sandwiches that were easy to eat in just a few bites. Traditionally, sliders were made with beef patties, but over the years, the term “slider” has expanded to include a wide range of mini sandwiches featuring various fillings. Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders are a modern twist on the original, combining the sweetness of Hawaiian rolls with savory ham and cheese, all baked with a flavorful sauce.
The term “slider” is believed to have originated in the 1940s among U.S. Navy sailors, who referred to greasy mini burgers as “sliders” because they would slide across the griddle easily. Today, sliders are a popular option for parties and gatherings because they are simple to prepare and customize.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders are great for a variety of events:
- Game Days: They’re easy to eat while watching the game and can be served buffet-style so guests can help themselves.
- Potlucks: These sliders travel well and can be baked right before the event. Their bite-sized nature makes them an ideal finger food.
- Family Dinners: When you need a quick meal that the whole family will love, these sliders are a perfect choice. Pair them with a side salad or chips for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information (per slider):
-
- Calories: Approximately 280 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 18g
- Cholesterol: 48mg
- Sodium: 470mg
Serving Suggestions:
These sliders pair well with a variety of side dishes:
- Salads: Serve with a fresh green salad or coleslaw for a lighter side.
- Chips or Fries: Offer alongside potato chips, sweet potato fries, or even tater tots for a heartier meal.
- Dips: Consider adding a dipping sauce like honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli on the side.
Make-Ahead and Storage:
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the sliders the night before and refrigerate them, covered with foil. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they’re cold.
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and a short baking time, these sliders are simple to prepare.
- Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for feeding a group, whether it’s a party, game day, or a family dinner.
- Customizable: You can easily switch up the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Conclusion:
Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders are the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and satisfying, making them a versatile dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, attending a potluck, or simply looking for a quick family meal, these sliders are sure to please a crowd. The combination of soft Hawaiian rolls, savory ham, melted cheese, and a tangy, buttery sauce creates a delicious sandwich that’s easy to prepare and customize to your liking. Plus, with endless variations and add-ons, you can make this recipe your own. Quick, flavorful, and convenient, Hawaiian sliders are a must-have for your recipe collection.
With their ease of preparation, ability to feed a large group, and delicious taste, these sliders are a go-to choice for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners. Don’t forget to experiment with different fillings and toppings to create a version that’s perfect for your taste buds!