Description of this recipe: These Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders are the perfect combination of sweet and savory, offering a delectable bite-sized treat that’s ideal for parties, game days, or a quick and satisfying meal. Featuring soft Hawaiian rolls, savory ham, melted Swiss cheese, and a luscious butter sauce, these sliders are incredibly easy to make and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why you will love this recipe:
- Quick and Easy: These sliders come together in under 30 minutes, making them a fantastic option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The sweet Hawaiian rolls combined with salty ham and cheese, topped with a flavorful butter sauce, create an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a party, watching a game, or simply need a fun and tasty meal, these sliders are versatile and always a hit.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your preferences by using different types of cheese, ham, or adding extra toppings.
- Portable: Their compact size makes them easy to transport, making them perfect for picnics, potlucks, and tailgating events.
Ingredients:
- 12 Hawaiian rolls (or slider buns)
- 1 lb deli ham (thinly sliced)
- 12 slices Swiss cheese (or your choice of cheese)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This ensures the sliders don’t stick to the pan and makes for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Rolls
Cut the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the top and bottom connected. This can be done easily with a large serrated knife. Place the bottom halves of the rolls into the greased baking dish. This forms the base for your delicious sliders.
Step 3: Assemble the Sliders
Layer the deli ham evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. Make sure to spread the ham out so that each slider gets a good portion. Next, place a slice of Swiss cheese on top of the ham. Swiss cheese melts beautifully and provides a classic flavor, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or Monterey Jack. Place the top halves of the rolls over the cheese.
Step 4: Make the Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, brown sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper. This butter sauce is the key to the slider’s irresistible flavor. The Dijon mustard adds a tangy kick, while the Worcestershire sauce provides a savory depth. Poppy seeds add a nice texture and visual appeal, and the brown sugar balances the savory elements with a touch of sweetness. The garlic and onion powder enhance the overall flavor profile.
Step 5: Brush the Sliders
Evenly pour the butter sauce over the top of the assembled sliders. Use a basting brush to ensure each roll is well coated. This step is crucial for infusing the sliders with flavor and creating a golden-brown crust during baking. Make sure to get the sauce into all the nooks and crannies of the rolls.
Step 6: Bake the Sliders
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. This helps to steam the sliders and melt the cheese without burning the tops. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the sliders are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to prevent over-baking.
Step 7: Serve
Let the sliders rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving hot. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes them easier to handle. Use a large serrated knife to slice the sliders into individual portions.
COOKING Rating: Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these sliders as an appetizer, a main course, or a snack.
- Pair them with a side of coleslaw, potato salad, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing, to enhance the flavor.
- These sliders are also great for picnics and potlucks, as they are easy to transport and serve.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for added visual appeal.
Tips:
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter sauce.
- If you don’t have Hawaiian rolls, use any type of slider bun or small dinner roll.
- To prevent the bottom of the sliders from getting soggy, you can lightly toast the bottom halves of the rolls before assembling.
- For a vegetarian option, replace the ham with grilled vegetables or plant-based deli slices.
- Leftover sliders can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Nutritional Information: (per slider, approximate)
Calories: 250
Protein: 12g
Sodium: 500mg
Conclusion:
These Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders are a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and cheesy flavors, making them a guaranteed hit at any gathering. With their ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing taste, they are sure to become a go-to recipe for parties, game days, and quick family meals. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate bite-sized delight!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! While Swiss cheese provides a classic flavor, you can easily substitute it with other types of cheese like provolone, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses. Experiment with different flavors to find your favorite combination.
Q2: Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the sliders ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. However, it’s best to add the butter sauce just before baking to prevent the rolls from getting soggy.
Q3: Can I add any other toppings to these sliders?
A: Of course! Feel free to customize the sliders with your favorite toppings. Some popular additions include sliced pickles, onions, tomatoes, lettuce, or even a drizzle of honey mustard or BBQ sauce.
Q4: How do I prevent the bottom of the sliders from getting soggy?
A: To prevent soggy bottoms, you can lightly toast the bottom halves of the rolls before assembling the sliders. This creates a barrier that prevents the moisture from the fillings from soaking into the bread.
Q5: Can I make these sliders vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can easily make these sliders vegetarian by replacing the ham with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions, or with plant-based deli slices. You can also add a layer of spinach or arugula for extra flavor and nutrients.
