Description of this recipe: These Ham & Cheese Hawaiian Roll Sliders are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making them an irresistible appetizer, party snack, or even a quick weeknight dinner. Fluffy Hawaiian sweet rolls are layered with savory ham and melty cheese, then topped with a tangy, buttery glaze that takes them to the next level. They’re easy to assemble, bake up quickly, and are always a hit with kids and adults alike.
Why you will love this recipe: You will love these sliders because they are incredibly versatile, satisfyingly delicious, and require minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a Super Bowl party, a casual get-together, or just need a simple meal on the table fast, these sliders deliver every time. The combination of the sweet rolls, savory ham and cheese, and the flavorful butter glaze creates a symphony of flavors that will leave everyone wanting more. Plus, they are endlessly customizable – you can swap out the cheese, add different deli meats, or adjust the glaze to your liking.
Introduction
In the realm of effortless and crowd-pleasing recipes, Ham & Cheese Hawaiian Roll Sliders reign supreme. These delectable little sandwiches are a staple at potlucks, game-day gatherings, and family dinners for a reason. They are incredibly easy to make, ridiculously delicious, and universally loved. The soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls provide the perfect canvas for the savory ham and melted cheese, while the buttery, tangy glaze adds a layer of flavor that elevates these sliders from ordinary to extraordinary.
This recipe is more than just a set of instructions; it’s a gateway to creating a memorable and enjoyable culinary experience. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and rewarding. It’s a recipe that encourages creativity and customization, allowing you to tailor it to your own tastes and preferences. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a journey to slider perfection.
Ingredients:
- 1 (12-count) package Hawaiian sweet rolls (such as King’s Hawaiian)
- 12-15 slices of deli ham (honey ham, black forest ham, or your favorite variety)
- 6-8 slices of Swiss cheese or cheddar cheese (or a combination of both)
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) salted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with aluminum foil, leaving some overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift the sliders out of the pan after baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Rolls: Without separating the individual rolls, use a serrated knife to carefully slice the entire rectangle of rolls horizontally into a top and bottom slab. Think of it like slicing a giant sandwich. Place the bottom slab of rolls in the prepared baking pan.
Step 3: Layer the Ham: Arrange the ham slices evenly over the bottom layer of the rolls. If your ham slices are large, fold them in half or quarters to ensure they fit neatly on the rolls and create a more even layer. Overlapping the ham slightly is fine. For added flavor, consider using a combination of different types of ham.
Step 4: Add the Cheese: Layer the Swiss cheese or cheddar cheese slices evenly over the ham. You can use a combination of both cheeses for a more complex flavor profile. If you prefer a sharper cheese, consider using provolone or Monterey Jack. Ensure the cheese is distributed evenly so that every slider gets a good amount of cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Top with Rolls and Prepare the Glaze: Carefully place the top slab of rolls over the cheese layer. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. This can be done in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, to prevent splattering. Once the butter is melted, add the Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Whisk all ingredients together until well combined. The glaze should be smooth and evenly distributed.
Step 6: Glaze the Sliders: Gently pour the butter mixture evenly over the top of the rolls. Use a pastry brush to spread the glaze, ensuring that it covers the entire surface, including the edges. If some of the glaze drips down the sides, don’t worry – it will add flavor to the bottom of the sliders as they bake. The glaze adds a crucial layer of flavor and helps create a golden-brown, crispy top.
Step 7: Bake and Finish: Cover the baking pan tightly with aluminum foil. This will help keep the rolls soft and prevent them from drying out. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the tops of the rolls are golden brown and slightly crispy. Keep a close eye on the sliders during this final baking stage to prevent them from burning.
Step 8: Slice and Serve: Remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before slicing. Use a serrated knife to cut the sliders into individual portions, following the natural divisions in the rolls. Serve immediately while they are warm and the cheese is melted and gooey.
COOKING Rating:
- Ease of Preparation: 5/5 (Very Easy)
- Flavor Profile: 5/5 (Excellent)
- Kid-Friendly: 5/5 (Universally Loved)
- Impressiveness: 4/5 (Great for gatherings)
Serving Suggestions:
These Ham & Cheese Hawaiian Roll Sliders are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Side Salad: A fresh, crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette dressing is a perfect complement to the rich and savory sliders.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds a touch of summer flavor and balances out the richness of the sliders.
- Potato Salad or Coleslaw: Classic picnic sides like potato salad or coleslaw are always a hit when served alongside sliders.
- Soup: A bowl of creamy tomato soup or chicken noodle soup makes for a comforting and satisfying meal when paired with the sliders.
- French Fries or Onion Rings: For a more indulgent meal, serve the sliders with a side of crispy French fries or onion rings.
- Pickles and Olives: A platter of pickles and olives provides a tangy and briny contrast to the sweet and savory flavors of the sliders.
Tips:
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone, mozzarella, or pepper jack, to customize the flavor of your sliders.
- Meat Options: You can substitute the ham with other deli meats, such as turkey, roast beef, or pepperoni, for a different flavor profile.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate thin slices of tomato, lettuce, or pickles for added freshness and crunch.
- Glaze Variations: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick. Or, try using honey mustard instead of Dijon mustard for a sweeter flavor.
- Make Ahead: The sliders can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just add the glaze right before baking to prevent the rolls from getting soggy.
- Freezing: Baked sliders can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
- Brush with Egg Wash: For a more golden-brown and glossy finish, brush the tops of the rolls with an egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water) before baking.
- Add a Savory Spread: Consider adding a layer of caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, or a garlic aioli spread to the bottom buns before adding the ham and cheese.
- Use High Quality Ingredients: Using high quality ingredients will greatly improve the overall experience.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate per slider, may vary based on ingredients used)
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 12-15g
- Sodium: 400-500mg
Conclusion
Ham & Cheese Hawaiian Roll Sliders are a culinary masterpiece of simplicity and flavor. They are the perfect solution for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or any occasion where you need a crowd-pleasing dish that requires minimal effort. The combination of sweet rolls, savory ham and cheese, and tangy glaze creates a symphony of flavors that is guaranteed to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and experience the joy of creating these irresistible sliders. They are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: Can I use different types of rolls instead of Hawaiian sweet rolls?
A: While Hawaiian sweet rolls are the traditional choice for these sliders, you can certainly experiment with other types of rolls. Brioche rolls, slider buns, or even mini croissants would work well. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will be slightly different. Hawaiian rolls are soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet, which complements the savory ham and cheese.
Q2: Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can definitely assemble the sliders ahead of time. Prepare them as instructed, but do not add the butter glaze until just before baking. Cover the assembled sliders tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This is a great option if you’re preparing for a party or event and want to save time on the day of.
Q3: How do I prevent the bottoms of the sliders from getting soggy?
A: To prevent soggy bottoms, make sure to line the baking pan with aluminum foil. Also, avoid adding the butter glaze too far in advance, as this can cause the rolls to absorb too much moisture. If you’re particularly concerned about sogginess, you can lightly toast the bottom slab of rolls before assembling the sliders.
Q4: Can I freeze these sliders after they’ve been baked?
A: Yes, you can freeze baked sliders for up to 2 months. Allow the sliders to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer bag or container. To reheat, thaw the sliders in the refrigerator overnight and then bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Q5: What other variations can I try with these sliders?
A: The possibilities are endless! You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone, mozzarella, or pepper jack. You can also add different deli meats, such as turkey, roast beef, or pepperoni. For a vegetarian option, try using sliced vegetables like roasted red peppers, zucchini, or eggplant. You can also customize the glaze by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or try using honey mustard instead of Dijon mustard for a sweeter flavor. Consider adding a savory spread such as caramelized onions or roasted garlic aioli to the bottom buns.
