Ham and Cheese Sliders (Hawaiian Roll Sliders Recipe)
Introduction
There are dishes that feel like a warm hug, and then there are those that travel down memory lane — the Ham and Cheese Sliders (Hawaiian Roll Sliders Recipe) is both. Picture pulling a baking dish from the oven: buttery, golden tops, melted cheese stretching as you lift a slider, and that soft, sweet Hawaiian roll yielding with the first bite. This recipe always finds its way to our family table when we want a quick dinner idea that still feels festive. If you love cozy, comforting food, you might also enjoy my twist on a classic casserole like Hamburger Tater Tot Casserole with Bacon and Cheese, which gives the same nostalgic satisfaction in a different form.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It is an easy recipe that comes together in under 30 minutes of hands-on time.
- Comforting food: warm, melty cheese and savory ham nestled inside soft Hawaiian rolls.
- Family favorite: kids and adults alike reach for seconds.
- Versatile: perfect for a quick dinner, a game-day spread, or a festive meal.
- Can be lightened for a healthy option by swapping cheeses and using lean ham.
Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian rolls (one standard pack) – sweet, pillowy, and the perfect carrier for the filling.
- 12 slices of deli ham (about 8–10 ounces) – choose smoked or honey ham for extra flavor; substitute turkey for a lighter option.
- 6–8 slices Swiss or cheddar cheese, halved (or 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded) – Swiss gives that classic tangy melt; for a healthier option try low-fat Swiss.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – coats the tops to crisp and brown.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard – adds a gentle zing; substitute yellow mustard if you prefer milder flavor.
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (optional) – traditional and pretty on top.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – deepens the savory notes; omit for a milder version.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – warming and aromatic.
- Salt and black pepper to taste.
Substitutions: Use whole-grain rolls for added fiber, or swap ham for thinly sliced roast chicken or smoked tofu for a vegetarian twist. Nutritional yeast sprinkled with a little olive oil can mimic cheesy notes if you want a dairy-free option.
Timing
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 15–18 minutes
- Total time: 25–30 minutes
This quick dinner idea is ready faster than takeout but gives the same comfort and satisfaction. The payoff is immediate: gooey, flavorful sliders that feel like a special occasion in minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. As the oven warms, you’ll smell the faint sweetness of the rolls and feel that anticipatory excitement.
- Slice the Hawaiian roll package in half horizontally, keeping the rolls connected. Place the bottom half in the baking dish so they fit snugly.
- Spread Dijon mustard evenly over the bottom layer of rolls. The tangy mustard contrasts beautifully with the sweet rolls.
- Layer the ham slices across the rolls, making sure each roll gets a good bite. If you want bolder flavor, fold the ham for height and texture.
- Add the cheese slices or shredded cheese over the ham, covering evenly. When the cheese melts it will bind everything into one irresistible bite.
- Place the top half of the rolls back on, press lightly, and brush the melted butter mixture (butter, Worcestershire, garlic powder, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper) generously over the tops.
- Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 12 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 3–6 minutes until the tops are golden and the cheese is bubbling.
- Let sliders rest for 2–3 minutes before slicing between rolls. Your kitchen will smell amazing at this point — warm, cheesy, buttery, and utterly inviting.
Tips and Variations
- Add a slice of pineapple or a thin slather of pineapple jam for a Hawaiian-inspired sweet-savory twist.
- Swap Swiss for provolone and add caramelized onions for a richer flavor.
- Make sliders mini by using slider rolls for party-sized bites.
- For a healthier option, use whole-grain rolls, reduced-fat cheese, and lean ham slices.
- To turn this into a more substantial meal, pair with a hearty soup like Black Bean and Ham Soup for a balanced plate.
Encourage personalization: these sliders are forgiving and love creativity — experiment and make the recipe your own.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these sliders hot and slightly messy. Picture a sunlit table: a baking dish of steaming sliders on a wooden board, a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette on the side, crunchy kettle chips, and cold pickles adding a briny lift. For drinks, try iced tea for a casual supper, a crisp lager for game days, or a sparkling apple cider to make it feel like a festive meal. These sliders shine at family game night, potlucks, or as a cozy weeknight comfort food.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Make-ahead: Assemble sliders in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the bake time if chilled.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat single servings in a skillet over medium heat or the whole dish under foil at 325°F until warmed through. Microwave works for convenience but will soften the tops.
- Freezing: Individually wrap cooled sliders and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed.
Pro Tips from the Kitchen
- Toast the cut sides of the rolls lightly before assembling for extra texture and to prevent sogginess.
- Don’t skip the butter mixture — it’s what gives the tops that irresistible sheen and savory crunch.
- Use a sharp chef’s knife to slice between rolls for clean edges. Wipe the blade between cuts if needed.
- If using shredded cheese, pack it tightly so it melts into every nook.
- For party prep, keep the butter mixture ready and assemble right before guests arrive for the best freshness.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these vegetarian?
A: Yes — replace ham with grilled vegetables, smoked tofu, or even a generous spread of roasted mushrooms and a layer of your favorite vegetarian deli slices.
Q: Can I freeze assembled sliders before baking?
A: You can freeze assembled sliders tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and bake a little longer until heated through and bubbly.
Q: Are Hawaiian rolls necessary?
A: Hawaiian rolls are classic for their softness and sweetness, but submarine rolls or whole-grain dinner rolls work too. Expect a slightly different texture and flavor.
Q: How do I keep sliders from getting soggy?
A: Lightly toasting the cut sides of the rolls and ensuring the butter mixture is not overly wet helps. Also, avoid over-saucing the rolls before assembly.
Q: Can I use leftover holiday ham?
A: Absolutely — this is a glorious way to use leftover ham and turn holiday leftovers into a family favorite weeknight dinner.
Conclusion
There is something deeply comforting about Ham and Cheese Sliders (Hawaiian Roll Sliders Recipe): simple ingredients, quick assembly, and the way they bring people together around the table. Whether you make them for a rushed weeknight, a cozy gathering, or to use up holiday ham, these sliders are a reminder that the most memorable meals are often the simplest. For another classic take and an oven-baked method that might inspire a slight variation on your next batch, check out this trusted version of the recipe at Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe (Oven-Baked and Easy) | The Kitchn. Give them a try, and let these warm, cheesy bites become part of your family stories and celebrations.
Contents
Ham and Cheese Sliders
Ingredients
For the Sliders
- 12 pieces Hawaiian rolls Sweet, pillowy rolls.
- 12 slices deli ham Choose smoked or honey ham for extra flavor; substitute turkey for a lighter option.
- 6-8 slices Swiss or cheddar cheese, halved Swiss gives a classic tangy melt; for a healthier option try low-fat Swiss.
For the Topping
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted Coats the tops to crisp and brown.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard Adds a gentle zing; substitute yellow mustard if you prefer milder flavor.
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds Optional, traditional for topping.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce Deepens the savory notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Warming and aromatic.
- to taste Salt and black pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Slice the Hawaiian roll package in half horizontally, keeping the rolls connected. Place the bottom half in the baking dish.
- Spread Dijon mustard evenly over the bottom layer of rolls.
- Layer the ham slices across the rolls.
- Add the cheese slices or shredded cheese over the ham.
- Place the top half of the rolls back on, press lightly, and brush melted butter mixture generously over the tops.
- Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 12 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 3-6 minutes until the tops are golden and the cheese is bubbling.
- Let sliders rest for 2-3 minutes before slicing between rolls.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.
📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest