Ham and Cheese Baked Sliders

These savory ham and cheese sliders are my secret weapon for making impressively easy party food that always disappears fast. The layers of ham and gooey cheese tucked inside buttery rolls get a major upgrade thanks to a zesty mustard poppy seed glaze. They are just as perfect for weeknight dinners as they are for family gatherings.

My family begs for these at every holiday and even the pickiest eaters ask for seconds. I first tried these when I needed something simple for a last-minute get-together and now they are a go-to comfort food I make all year long.

Ingredients

• Soft dinner rolls: bring a fluffy base that crisps up in the oven choose rolls that are fresh and slightly sweet like Hawaiian varieties for extra flavor
• Thinly sliced deli ham: creates the salty savory layer look for high-quality ham with a nice balance of fat for tenderness
• Sliced Swiss cheese: melts beautifully and offers a creamy sharpness you can swap in provolone or cheddar depending on your taste
• Unsalted butter: ties the sauce together and encourages browning use real butter for best results
• Dijon mustard: provides tang and a gentle heat not too spicy but essential for pop in the glaze
• Poppy seeds: add a little crunch and visual appeal fresh seeds deliver the most nutty flavor
• Worcestershire sauce: deepens the savory note in the glaze just a splash brings everything together
• Brown sugar: balances the saltiness and mustard with subtle sweetness try to use light brown sugar for a mellow taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Rolls:

Slice your dinner rolls in half horizontally but keep the sheet of rolls intact Place the bottom halves into a large baking dish fitting them snugly side by side This ensures every bite will be perfectly filled

Layer the Fillings:

Arrange slices of ham evenly over the rolls so each sandwich gets a generous portion Then distribute the cheese slices over the ham making sure the edges overlap for gooey results

Close the Sandwiches:

Replace the tops of the rolls neatly over the filling Press gently to compact the layers This will help keep sliders together after baking

Make the Sauce:

Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat Stir in Dijon mustard Worcestershire sauce poppy seeds and brown sugar Whisk until smooth and fragrant about one minute You should smell the aroma of the mustard and butter blending together

Brush and Soak:

Pour or brush the sauce generously over the assembled sliders allowing the sauce to seep between the rolls This step is what gives each bite its signature flavor and creates that golden crust

Bake to Perfection:

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit for fifteen minutes Remove foil and bake for an additional five to ten minutes until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling Let cool slightly before serving This rest helps the cheese set so sliders stay neatly together

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My favorite part has always been watching my kids race to grab the last cheesy slider out of the dish It is a guaranteed crowd pleaser and my husband swears the poppy seed glaze is the best part

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be wrapped in foil and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days To reheat bake in a foil covered pan at three hundred degrees Fahrenheit until warm This keeps everything melty and prevents dryness

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap turkey breast for ham if you want a lighter version Provolone or sharp cheddar work in place of Swiss If you prefer gluten free simply use your favorite gluten free rolls and check that your mustard and Worcestershire are safe

Serving Suggestions

Serve sliders with a side of crisp pickles plain potato chips or a simple salad For brunch events add a bowl of scrambled eggs or a platter of fresh fruit You can even make mini versions for cocktail parties using small rolls

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Cultural Context

Ham and cheese sliders are an American potluck classic inspired by the flavors of retro party sandwiches They became especially popular in the Midwest as a quick and satisfying way to feed groups and have since spread to game day parties and holiday tables everywhere

Commonly Asked Questions

→ What kind of ham works best for these sliders?

Sliced deli ham, such as honey-glazed, smoked, or maple, all work wonderfully. Choose your favorite for added flavor.

→ Can I substitute the cheese?

Absolutely! Swiss, cheddar, provolone, or even Monterey Jack are tasty alternatives depending on your preference.

→ What rolls are ideal for this dish?

Soft dinner rolls or sweet Hawaiian rolls are popular choices, both resulting in a tender and flavorful bite.

→ Is it possible to prepare the sliders ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate. Brush with the sauce just before baking to keep the rolls from getting soggy.

→ How do I keep the sandwiches from becoming soggy?

Apply the butter-mustard sauce right before baking and keep toppings balanced for best results.

→ Can I swap out the ham for other meats?

Yes, turkey or roast beef are great substitutes if you prefer a different filling.