Ham and Swiss Sliders

My family are big fans of anything in slider form – there’s just something inherently fun and shareable about them! But these Ham and Swiss Sliders? They’ve reached a whole new level of family favorite status. The first time I made them, they disappeared in minutes. The buttery, savory buns, the melty Swiss cheese, and the satisfying layers of ham – it’s a combination that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner, a game day gathering, or a potluck party, these sliders are always a hit. They are incredibly easy to prepare, and the oven does most of the work, leaving you free to mingle and enjoy your company. Honestly, if you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s both delicious and effortless, look no further. These Ham and Swiss Sliders are guaranteed to be a winner!

Ingredients for Delicious Ham and Swiss Sliders

This recipe is all about simplicity and flavor. You don’t need a long list of complicated ingredients to create something truly special. Here’s what you’ll need to assemble these mouthwatering Ham and Swiss Sliders:

• 1 (12-count) package Slider Buns: The foundation of our sliders! Look for soft, sweet slider buns, often sold in packs. Hawaiian sweet rolls are a classic and delicious choice, adding a touch of sweetness that complements the savory ham and Swiss. You can also use other types of soft slider buns if you prefer.
• 1 pound Cooked Ham: The star protein! You’ll want thinly sliced cooked ham. Deli ham works perfectly, and you can choose your favorite variety – black forest ham, honey ham, or even smoked ham for a deeper flavor. Pre-sliced ham saves time, but you can also slice a ham steak yourself.
• 10-12 slices Swiss Cheese: The perfect cheesy partner for ham! Swiss cheese offers a nutty, slightly sweet, and mild flavor that melts beautifully. Pre-sliced Swiss cheese is convenient, or you can buy a block and slice it yourself. For a sharper taste, consider using Gruyere cheese, which is similar to Swiss but with a more pronounced flavor.
• ½ cup (1 stick) Butter: For richness and flavor! Unsalted butter is preferred, as it allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. Butter is melted and brushed over the slider buns, creating a golden, crispy top and adding a layer of decadent flavor.
• 1 ½ tablespoons Dijon Mustard: A touch of tang and depth! Dijon mustard adds a subtle kick and complexity to the sliders. Its sharp, slightly acidic flavor cuts through the richness of the ham and cheese, creating a balanced taste.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce: Umami booster! Worcestershire sauce brings a savory, umami depth that elevates the flavor profile. Just a dash adds a noticeable richness and complexity.
• 1 tablespoon Poppy Seeds: Texture and visual appeal! Poppy seeds sprinkled on top add a lovely visual contrast and a subtle nutty flavor and slight crunch. They also help the sliders look even more appetizing.
• 1 tablespoon Dried Onion Flakes or 1 teaspoon Onion Powder: Aromatic and savory! Dried onion flakes or powder provides a hint of onion flavor that complements the ham and cheese. Onion powder offers a more subtle, evenly distributed flavor, while onion flakes give a bit more texture and a slightly stronger onion taste. Freshly minced onion can also be used for a stronger onion flavor, but ensure it is finely minced to cook through properly.
• Optional: 1-2 teaspoons Brown Sugar: A hint of sweetness (optional)! A tiny touch of brown sugar in the butter mixture can enhance the sweetness of the Hawaiian rolls and create a more caramelized top. This is entirely optional and depends on your preference for sweetness.
• Optional: ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder or 1 clove Fresh Garlic, minced: Garlic boost (optional)! For garlic lovers, adding garlic powder or minced fresh garlic to the butter mixture can elevate the flavor even further. Garlic powder is convenient, while fresh garlic offers a more pungent, robust garlic flavor. If using fresh garlic, mince it very finely to ensure it cooks through and doesn’t burn.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Ham and Swiss Sliders

Making these Ham and Swiss Sliders is incredibly easy and quick. Follow these simple steps to create a batch of delicious sliders that everyone will love:

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will prevent the sliders from sticking and make cleanup easier. You can use cooking spray or a little butter to grease the dish.
2. Prepare the Slider Buns: Gently separate the slider buns into a single sheet, keeping the tops and bottoms connected. This will make assembly easier and ensure all the sliders bake evenly together. Don’t fully separate the individual buns yet; we’ll do that after baking.
3. Layer the Bottom Buns with Ham and Cheese: Place the bottom half of the slider buns in the prepared baking dish. Now, start layering on the delicious fillings. First, evenly distribute the sliced ham over the bottom buns, making sure to cover each bun generously. Don’t be shy with the ham – a good layer is key to a satisfying slider. Next, place the Swiss cheese slices on top of the ham, ensuring each bun is covered with cheese. If your cheese slices are small, you might need to use a couple per slider to get good coverage.
4. Prepare the Butter Topping: In a small, microwave-safe bowl or a saucepan, melt the butter. If microwaving, heat in short intervals (about 30 seconds at a time) until melted, stirring in between to prevent splattering. If using a saucepan, melt over low heat. Once the butter is melted, stir in the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, and dried onion flakes or powder (and optional brown sugar and garlic powder/fresh garlic, if using). Whisk everything together until well combined. This butter mixture is the secret to adding incredible flavor and a beautiful golden crust to the sliders.
5. Brush the Butter Topping over the Slider Buns: Using a pastry brush, generously brush the butter mixture evenly over the top of the slider buns. Make sure to coat all the buns, allowing the flavorful butter to soak into the tops. This butter topping will create a crispy, golden-brown crust as the sliders bake and infuse them with delicious savory flavors.
6. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This is important because it traps the steam and helps the cheese melt beautifully without the buns drying out too much. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey, and the buns are heated through.
7. Uncover and Bake Further (Optional): For extra crispy tops, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking. This will allow the tops of the buns to brown and crisp up nicely under the oven’s heat. Keep a close eye on them during this time to prevent burning. If you prefer softer buns, you can skip this step and keep the foil on for the entire baking time.
8. Let Rest Briefly and Serve: Once baked to your liking, remove the sliders from the oven and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes them easier to handle. Using a long serrated knife or a pizza cutter, carefully slice through the connected buns to separate them into individual sliders.
9. Serve Immediately and Enjoy! Serve the Ham and Swiss Sliders immediately while they are warm and cheesy. They are perfect as an appetizer, a light meal, or a party snack. Get ready for rave reviews – these sliders are always a crowd-pleaser!

Nutrition Facts for Ham and Swiss Sliders

(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used. It is always best to calculate nutritional information based on the exact ingredients you use for the most accurate values.)

Servings: Approximately 12 sliders

Calories per Serving (per slider): Approximately 250-350 calories (This can vary significantly based on bun size, ham quantity, and cheese type)

Approximate Nutrition Facts per Slider:

• Fat: 15-20g
• Saturated Fat: 8-12g
• Cholesterol: 40-60mg
• Fiber: 1-2g

Important Note: These are estimated values. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. Consider using leaner ham and reduced-fat cheese to lower fat and calorie content.

Preparation Time for Ham and Swiss Sliders

These Ham and Swiss Sliders are a dream for busy cooks because they come together so quickly!

• Prep Time: A super speedy 10-15 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients, slicing the ham and cheese if needed, preparing the butter topping, and assembling the sliders in the baking dish. The beauty of this recipe is minimal chopping and fuss!
• Cook Time: Bake time is approximately 20-25 minutes total, including the initial covered baking and the optional uncovered crisping time. The oven does most of the work, allowing you to relax or focus on other tasks while the sliders bake to golden perfection.
• Total Time: In under 35-40 minutes from start to finish, you can have a batch of hot, cheesy, and delicious Ham and Swiss Sliders ready to serve. This makes them ideal for weeknight meals, last-minute gatherings, or whenever you need a quick and satisfying dish.

How to Serve Ham and Swiss Sliders

Ham and Swiss Sliders are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways, making them perfect for different occasions. Here are some serving suggestions:

• As an Appetizer:
  • Party Pleaser: These sliders are fantastic appetizers for parties, game days, potlucks, and casual gatherings. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to eat while mingling.
  • Elegant Platter: Arrange the sliders on a platter lined with parchment paper or a decorative serving tray. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an elegant touch.
  • Dip Duo: Serve them with a side of Dijon mustard for dipping, or a creamy honey mustard for a sweeter option. You can also offer a spicy aioli for those who like a bit of heat.
• As a Light Meal:
  • Quick Lunch or Dinner: Paired with a simple side salad or a cup of soup, Ham and Swiss Sliders make a satisfying and easy light meal.
  • Weeknight Winner: Their quick preparation time makes them perfect for busy weeknights when you need a fast and flavorful dinner.
  • Kids’ Favorite: Children especially love sliders! They are fun to eat and the familiar flavors of ham and cheese are always a hit.
• Side Dish Pairings:
  • Classic Salad: A crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sliders.
  • Potato Salad or Coleslaw: These classic picnic sides complement the sliders perfectly for a casual meal.
  • Soup of the Day: Tomato soup, creamy potato soup, or a hearty vegetable soup are all great pairings for sliders, especially on a cooler day.
  • Sweet Potato Fries or Regular Fries: For a more indulgent meal, serve sliders with a side of crispy fries or sweet potato fries.
  • Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad can balance the savory flavors of the sliders, especially in warmer weather.
  • Pickles and Olives: A platter of pickles, olives, and other pickled vegetables provides a tangy and crunchy counterpoint to the sliders.

Additional Tips for Perfect Ham and Swiss Sliders

Want to take your Ham and Swiss Sliders to the next level? Here are 8 helpful tips to ensure slider success every time:

1. Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the sliders while they are baking. Overbaking can dry out the buns and make the cheese tough. Aim for melted, gooey cheese and golden-brown buns. Remove them from the oven as soon as they reach this point.
2. Use Fresh, Quality Ingredients: The better the quality of your ingredients, the better your sliders will taste. Choose fresh, soft slider buns, good quality ham, and flavorful Swiss cheese. Fresh butter also makes a difference in the butter topping.
3. Customize Your Cheese: While Swiss cheese is classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses! Gruyere offers a similar but richer flavor. Provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheddar and mozzarella would also be delicious. Consider using a smoked cheese for a smoky flavor profile.
4. Spice it Up! For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter topping or spread a thin layer of sriracha mayo or chipotle mayo on the bottom buns before adding the ham and cheese. You could also add a few slices of pickled jalapenos for a spicy bite.
5. Add Some Veggies: Sneak in some veggies! Thinly sliced caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted red peppers can add extra flavor and texture to your sliders. Layer these vegetables between the ham and cheese.
6. Make-Ahead Magic: You can assemble the sliders ahead of time and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to a few hours before baking. This is great for party prep! Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold. Do not add the butter topping until just before baking to prevent the buns from getting soggy.
7. Garlic Butter Boost: For even more flavor in the butter topping, sauté a clove or two of minced garlic in the butter for a minute or two before adding the other ingredients. This infuses the butter with a rich garlic flavor that elevates the sliders. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
8. Brush the Buns Bottoms Too: For extra buttery goodness and to prevent the bottom buns from becoming soggy, lightly brush the bottom buns with some of the melted butter mixture before layering on the ham and cheese. This creates a flavorful barrier and adds extra richness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Ham and Swiss Sliders

Here are some common questions people ask about making Ham and Swiss Sliders:

Q1: Can I use different types of buns for these sliders?

A: Absolutely! While Hawaiian sweet rolls are a popular choice, you can use any soft slider buns you prefer. Potato rolls, brioche slider buns, or even pretzel slider buns would all work well. Just ensure they are soft and can hold the fillings without being too dense.

Q2: Can I make these sliders vegetarian?

A: To make vegetarian sliders, you would need to replace the ham. You could use sliced portobello mushrooms marinated in balsamic vinegar and grilled, or thinly sliced and seasoned eggplant. Alternatively, you could use vegetarian deli slices or even just double up on the cheese and add some roasted vegetables like bell peppers and onions for a hearty vegetarian slider.

Q3: How do I store leftover Ham and Swiss Sliders?

A: Leftover sliders are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for 2-3 days. To reheat, you can wrap them in foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a microwave, but they may become a bit softer.

Q4: Can I freeze Ham and Swiss Sliders?

A: While you can technically freeze baked sliders, the texture of the buns may change slightly upon thawing and reheating. For best results, it’s recommended to assemble the sliders (without the butter topping) and freeze them unbaked. When ready to bake, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then add the butter topping and bake as directed.

Q5: What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce? Can I substitute it?

A: Worcestershire sauce adds a unique umami flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can try a few substitutes. Soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free) can provide a similar savory depth, but use them sparingly as they are saltier. A dash of balsamic vinegar or even a small amount of steak sauce can also work in a pinch.

Q6: Can I double or triple this recipe for a larger crowd?

A: Yes, this recipe is easily scalable! Simply double or triple all the ingredients proportionally to make a larger batch. You may need to use multiple baking dishes depending on the quantity.

Q7: My slider buns are getting too brown before the cheese is melted. What can I do?

A: If your buns are browning too quickly, you can loosely tent the baking dish with aluminum foil while they continue to bake. This will shield the tops of the buns from direct heat and prevent them from burning, while still allowing the cheese to melt.

Q8: Can I add other seasonings to the butter topping?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the butter topping to your liking. Consider adding garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, dried thyme, or even a pinch of smoked paprika for different flavor variations. Experiment and find your favorite flavor combination!

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