Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe
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If you have some ham and cheese sitting in the fridge, let me introduce you to an absolute game-changer: the Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe. These little sandwiches are a perfect balance of melty cheese, savory ham, and a buttery, golden Hawaiian roll that just melts in your mouth. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a party favorite, or a comforting bite on a busy day, this recipe transforms simple leftovers into something magical and crowd-pleasing. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a go-to treat you’ll want on repeat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in making these sliders sing. From the sweetness of the Hawaiian rolls to the richness of melted butter, every item adds a special touch of flavor and texture.
- 12 Hawaiian rolls: Soft, slightly sweet buns that hold everything together perfectly and give a tender bite.
- 2 cups leftover ham, sliced: The star protein that brings savory, salty goodness to every slider.
- 8 slices Swiss or cheddar cheese: Choose your favorite—Swiss offers a mild nuttiness, while cheddar adds sharpness and depth.
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted: Brushed on top to create that irresistible golden crust and buttery aroma.
- Poppy seeds for topping (optional): Adds a subtle crunch and a classic look that completes the sliders.
How to Make Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is just right to warm everything evenly without drying out the rolls. While the oven heats, lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray so those sliders won’t stick and come out perfectly clean.
Step 2: Slice and Layer Your Rolls
Carefully slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally, creating a bottom and top half but keeping the rolls connected in a block for easy assembly. Layer the sliced leftover ham evenly across the bottom half, making sure each slider will get a delicious filling.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Assemble Sliders
Place 8 slices of your chosen Swiss or cheddar cheese evenly over the ham layer. Feel free to overlap slightly for a cheesier slider experience. Then gently press the top half of the rolls back onto the cheese-covered ham to form your sliders block.
Step 4: Butter and Poppy Seed Topping
Brush the melted butter generously over the top so each slider bakes to a glossy, golden perfection. If you love a little extra style and texture, sprinkle poppy seeds over the buttered top—it’s a delightful little touch that will make these sliders look just as good as they taste.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the assembled sliders in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. This heats the ham through, melts the cheese to gooey excellence, and crisps up the tops just so. Keep an eye on them towards the end to ensure they don’t over-brown.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes—this helps everything set up a bit so the filling doesn’t spill out when you slice. Then cut between the rolls to separate into individual sliders and serve them warm for pure comfort food bliss.
How to Serve Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe
Garnishes
While these sliders are divine on their own, a little garnish can level up the presentation and flavor. Try topping with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color or add a tiny dollop of your favorite mustard or aioli on the side for dipping. These small extras make serving a breeze and bring out extra layers of taste.
Side Dishes
Pair your sliders with some fresh crunchy pickles to cut through the richness or a crisp garden salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette to add a refreshing bite. For heartier options, creamy coleslaw or baked potato chips are fantastic companions that keep the meal satisfying but balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Instead of a classic tray, try serving the sliders stacked on a rustic wooden board or in a basket lined with parchment paper for a cozy, casual vibe. For parties, arrange sliders on a platter with toothpicks holding each together—easy finger food that’s sure to disappear fast!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover ham and cheese sliders, no worries—wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for up to 3 days and maintain great flavor if reheated properly.
Freezing
You can freeze these sliders before baking. Assemble everything as stated, then wrap the entire block tightly in foil or freezer wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual for a freshly baked taste anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the sliders in a 350°F oven for about 10-12 minutes, covered loosely with foil to keep them from drying out. This method ensures the cheese melts again beautifully, and the rolls regain their soft, warm texture without getting tough.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! Swiss and cheddar are classic options, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella, provolone, or even pepper jack for a little extra kick. Just pick cheeses that melt well to keep things gooey and delicious.
What can I substitute if I don’t have Hawaiian rolls?
If Hawaiian rolls aren’t available, soft dinner rolls or slider buns with a slightly sweet or neutral flavor work well. The key is using soft, tender bread that holds the fillings without overpowering them.
Is this Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe suitable for a crowd?
Yes! These sliders are perfect for feeding a crowd because they are easy to scale up, bake all together in one dish, and serve as finger food. They disappear fast at gatherings for good reason.
Can I add more ingredients like mustard or pickles inside the sliders?
Definitely. Adding a thin spread of mustard, mayonnaise, or even layering in some sliced pickles inside brings fantastic extra flavor and texture. Just be mindful that adding wet ingredients inside may make the rolls a bit softer.
How can I make these sliders extra crispy?
If you enjoy a crunchier top, brush the buns with a little extra melted butter halfway through baking or finish them under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely so they don’t burn. The contrast of crispy outside and melty inside is heavenly.
Final Thoughts
You simply cannot go wrong with this Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe. It’s a warm, comforting way to turn simple ingredients and leftovers into something absolutely irresistible and shareable. From family dinners to game day snacks, these sliders bring joy and flavor every single time. So grab those leftover ham slices and give this recipe a try—you’re in for a delicious treat!
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Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
These Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders are an easy and delicious way to transform leftover ham into a savory and satisfying meal. Made with soft Hawaiian rolls, melted Swiss or cheddar cheese, and a buttery topping, these sliders bake to golden perfection and make a perfect snack or party appetizer.
Ingredients
Slider Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian rolls
- 2 cups leftover ham, sliced
- 8 slices Swiss or cheddar cheese
Topping
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- Poppy seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the sliders.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent the sliders from sticking during baking and to make cleanup easier.
- Assemble Sliders: Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. On the bottom halves, layer the sliced leftover ham evenly, followed by the slices of Swiss or cheddar cheese.
- Top and Butter: Place the top halves of the rolls back on the layered sliders. Brush the tops generously with the melted butter to add flavor and promote browning. Sprinkle poppy seeds on top if desired for added texture and taste.
- Bake Sliders: Place the assembled sliders in the prepared baking dish and bake them in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Bake until the cheese is melted, the sliders are heated through, and the tops are golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the sliders from the oven and allow them to cool slightly for a few minutes. Slice them apart carefully and serve warm for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute Swiss or cheddar cheese with your favorite melting cheese such as provolone or mozzarella.
- Butter brushing helps to give the sliders a golden, crispy top but can be omitted for a lighter version.
- Poppy seeds are optional but add a nice visual and subtle nutty flavor.
- These sliders are perfect for using up any leftover ham and work well as party or game day snacks.
- For extra flavor, consider adding mustard or a honey-mustard spread before adding ham and cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
