Samantha When I want a recipe that’s warm, melty, and perfect for sharing, these Ham & Cheese Hawaiian Roll Sliders always do the trick. Whether I’m feeding a crowd for game day, making a cozy family dinner, or prepping make-ahead party sandwich sliders, these golden-baked bites come through every single time. Sweet Hawaiian rolls cradle layers of savory ham and gooey cheese, all topped with a buttery Dijon glaze that makes them absolutely irresistible.
What makes these sliders extra special is the way they check every box. Need something fast and family-friendly for dinner? Done. Looking for game-day food that disappears in minutes? This is it. Want a make-ahead ham slider recipe for holidays or potlucks? These were made for it. Plus, they reheat beautifully, so you can serve them fresh out of the oven or prep them in advance with total confidence.
I started making these during a holiday brunch years ago, and they’ve become a staple ever since. The contrast of flavors—sweet rolls, salty ham, tangy mustard glaze—creates the kind of comforting bite that’s hard to forget. They also fit right into just about any menu, from casual lunches to birthday parties to late-night snacks.
Looking for a crowd-pleasing, flavor-packed appetizer that’s just as good as dinner? You’ve found it. Let’s make the ultimate Ham & Cheese Hawaiian Roll Sliders.
Ham & Cheese Hawaiian Roll Sliders – Easy Make-Ahead Party Sandwiches Everyone Loves
Ingredients
- 12 King’s Hawaiian rolls
- ¾ lb sliced deli ham honey ham or smoked ham work well
- 8 slices Swiss or provolone cheese
- ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar optional for extra sweetness
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds optional
Instructions
- Prep the PanPreheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment or foil for easy cleanup.
- Assemble the SlidersSlice the rolls in half horizontally (keep them connected if possible). Lay the bottom halves in the baking dish. Layer with ham and cheese. Replace the tops.
- Make the GlazeIn a small bowl, mix melted butter, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and poppy seeds. Brush generously over the tops of the rolls.
- BakeCover loosely with foil and bake for 10 minutes. Remove foil and bake 5–7 minutes more until tops are golden and cheese is melted.
- ServeCool slightly, slice, and serve warm.
Notes
Pro Tips for Extra Delicious Ham & Cheese Hawaiian Roll Sliders
Want to take your Ham & Cheese Hawaiian Roll Sliders from great to unforgettable? Here are my personal secret tips that I’ve picked up over dozens of bakes. These tricks guarantee golden tops, melty centers, and just the right flavor in every bite—especially if you’re making them for a crowd or prepping ahead. 1. Toast the Bottoms for Extra Crunch: Before assembling, lightly toast the bottom halves of the rolls in the oven for 3–4 minutes. This prevents sogginess and gives your sliders a subtle crispiness that holds up even after reheating. 2. Use Clarified Butter in the Glaze: Clarified butter (or ghee) creates a richer, more intense glaze and browns beautifully in the oven. It also prevents the rolls from getting greasy. You can melt your own butter and skim off the milk solids for a quick fix. 3. Infuse the Glaze with Garlic or Onion Powder: A pinch of garlic powder or dried onion flakes added to the butter glaze boosts flavor without overpowering. It adds that cozy, savory aroma you’d expect from restaurant-style slider sandwiches. 4. Layer Cheese on Both Sides: For extra melt and structure, place half the cheese under the ham and half on top. This creates a gooey center and helps “glue” the sliders together, making them easier to slice and serve. 5. Spoon Glaze Between Layers: For maximum flavor, spoon a tiny bit of the buttery glaze between the roll halves before adding the ham and cheese. It soaks into the bread and adds flavor to every layer—especially if you’re using a sweet-and-savory brown sugar-Dijon glaze. 6. Let Them Rest Before Cutting: Once baked, let the sliders sit for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the cheese to set slightly and prevents it from oozing out too fast when you cut into them. 7. Chill Before Baking (for Meal Prep): If you’re making these ahead, chill them in the fridge for an hour or more before baking. This lets the flavors meld and helps the glaze soak into the rolls without making them soggy. It also improves texture and structure after baking. 8. Cut with a Serrated Knife: Always use a serrated knife or a bread knife to slice your sliders. It cuts through the buns cleanly without squishing them—and gives you those perfect bakery-style edges.Recipe Overview
| Cuisine | American |
|---|---|
| Course | Appetizer, Dinner, Party Snack |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Servings | 12 sliders |
| Primary Keyword | Ham & Cheese Hawaiian Roll Sliders |
Nutritional Snapshot
| Calories | 320 per slider |
| Protein | 14g |
| Carbs | 26g |
| Fat | 17g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Sodium | 580mg |
Nutritional values are estimates based on standard ingredients.
Budget Breakdown (Approximate)
- King’s Hawaiian Rolls (12-pack): $3.50
- Sliced deli ham: $4.00
- Cheese (Swiss or provolone): $2.50
- Butter, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds: $1.00
Total: ~$11.00 (~$0.92 per slider)
Behind the Recipe
Ham & Cheese Hawaiian Roll Sliders became a staple in my kitchen during football season—and they’ve stuck around ever since. I love how the sweetness of the rolls contrasts beautifully with the saltiness of the ham and the richness of the cheese. The buttery glaze on top adds just the right crunch and flavor boost, especially when baked until golden and bubbling.
This mini ham and cheese sandwich recipe really hits home because it’s inspired by classic American comfort food with a slightly elevated twist. You’re using simple deli ingredients—sliced ham, cheese, and store-bought rolls—but turning them into a hot, melty, pull-apart masterpiece. And best of all, it doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
Pop these in the oven and you’ll have a party-ready dish in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re using honey ham, smoked ham, Swiss, cheddar, or provolone, there’s a version for everyone. And if you’re following a low-carb lifestyle or need something more heart-conscious, it’s easy to adapt with low-carb rolls and reduced-sodium meats. According to Healthline, lean ham is a good source of protein and B vitamins, making it a decent choice when eaten in moderation.
This recipe has earned a permanent spot in my kitchen lineup because it works every time—for any crowd, any occasion.
Why You’ll Love These Ham & Cheese Hawaiian Roll Sliders
When it comes to easy party appetizers or family-friendly dinners, these Ham & Cheese Hawaiian Roll Sliders are hard to beat. Whether you’re serving a crowd on game day, preparing a quick lunch, or bringing something warm and cheesy to a potluck, this make-ahead ham slider recipe hits all the high notes—sweet, savory, crispy, and gooey.
🔥 Savory Meets Sweet
The magic of these sliders lies in the contrast of flavors. The soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls balance the saltiness of the ham and the richness of the melted cheese. Add a buttery Dijon glaze with a hint of brown sugar, and every bite becomes the perfect savory-meets-sweet explosion. It’s this flavor balance that makes them one of my most requested dishes—especially for those looking for a more indulgent baked ham and cheese slider experience that doesn’t take hours to make.
🧀 Cheese Lover’s Dream
Calling all cheese lovers! These sliders were practically made for you. Whether you go with Swiss, provolone, or cheddar, the cheese melts into the ham like a dream, creating that signature pull-apart sandwich moment. Want to level up the flavor? Try a blend of sharp cheddar and creamy Havarti. If you’re looking for kid-friendly slider recipes, the gooey cheese factor makes these an instant winner.
⏱️ Quick and Easy
These sliders come together in under 30 minutes from start to finish. That means even on a busy weeknight, you can whip up a tray without breaking a sweat. No long marinade, no multiple pans—just simple ingredients, quick layering, and a short bake time. This makes them a perfect solution for anyone seeking a fast and easy slider sandwich recipe that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
🍽️ Make-Ahead Friendly
One of my favorite things about this dish is how well it lends itself to meal prep. You can assemble the sliders hours—or even a full day—ahead of time. When it’s go-time, just brush on the glaze and pop them in the oven. They also reheat like a dream, making them great for next-day lunches or leftovers. If you’re prepping for a holiday brunch or party buffet, this make-ahead ham and cheese slider recipe is a lifesaver.
🏈 Perfect for Any Gathering
These party sandwich sliders are always a hit—no matter the crowd or the occasion. I serve them during game day get-togethers, casual family dinners, birthday parties, and even at holiday buffets. Because they’re individually portioned and totally handheld, they’re a breeze to serve and eat. Want to scale them up? Just double the recipe on a sheet pan. Want to dress them up? Sprinkle sesame seeds or shredded Parmesan over the top before baking.
According to the FDA, reducing sodium in meals can support heart health, especially when using processed deli meats and cheeses. Thankfully, these sliders are super easy to customize with low-sodium ham and cheese options, giving you full control over what goes into your dish.
Whether you’re looking for hot ham and cheese sliders for a crowd, a quick appetizer with Hawaiian rolls, or a satisfying oven-baked slider sandwich, this recipe checks every box. Comfort food doesn’t get much better—or easier—than this.
Perfect For
Game Day Gatherings
These hot ham and cheese sliders are made for tailgates, watch parties, and football Sundays. Easy to prep, quick to bake, and even easier to eat, they’re a game day slider recipe that disappears before halftime. Just serve with chips and a dipping sauce, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing winner.
Potlucks & Holiday Buffets
Planning a holiday ham slider bake or wondering what to bring to a potluck? These sliders travel well and reheat beautifully. Since they’re handheld, they’re ideal for buffet spreads and big family meals where you want something easy to grab and go.
Weeknight Family Dinners
Need something the kids will actually eat (and maybe even request again)? These kid-friendly ham sliders are a total lifesaver for busy weeknights. Paired with fresh fruit, pasta salad, or roasted veggies, they make a quick comfort food dinner the whole family loves.
Meal Prep Lunches
Because these sliders are easy to store and reheat, they’re excellent for make-ahead lunches. Wrap up a few and pop them in your lunchbox or meal prep containers for a savory mini sandwich that stays satisfying throughout the week.
Casual Entertaining
If you’re hosting a small get-together or backyard hangout, these oven-baked ham sliders with glaze bring all the cozy vibes without the hassle. Serve them with a side salad or crispy veggie fries for a laid-back but seriously tasty meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 12 King’s Hawaiian rolls
- ¾ lb sliced deli ham (honey ham or smoked ham work well)
- 8 slices Swiss or provolone cheese
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional for extra sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)
Ingredient Highlights
🥪 King’s Hawaiian Rolls
Soft, sweet, and the perfect size. Their flavor elevates simple sliders into something special.
🐖 Deli Ham
Choose quality sliced ham. Honey ham adds sweetness, while smoked ham brings a savory depth.
🧀 Swiss or Provolone
Both cheeses melt beautifully. Swiss adds tang, while provolone gives a mellow creaminess.
🧈 Butter & Dijon Glaze
A must for flavor and browning. The Dijon adds tang, and the butter crisps up the top.
How to Make It
1. Prep the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Assemble the Sliders
Slice the rolls in half horizontally (keep them connected if possible). Lay the bottom halves in the baking dish. Layer with ham and cheese. Replace the tops.
3. Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, mix melted butter, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and poppy seeds. Brush generously over the tops of the rolls.
4. Bake
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 10 minutes. Remove foil and bake 5–7 minutes more until tops are golden and cheese is melted.
5. Serve
Cool slightly, slice, and serve warm.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t skip the glaze—It’s the secret to crispy, golden tops with tons of flavor.
- Keep rolls connected for easier slicing and assembly.
- Use parchment or foil to make cleanup a breeze.
- Want crispier bottoms? Place a baking sheet on top of the sliders while baking uncovered for the last 5 minutes.
Easy Variations
One of the best things about these Ham & Cheese Hawaiian Roll Sliders is how customizable they are. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet, making them for breakfast, or just want to give them a flavor upgrade, there’s a variation for every occasion. Here are some of my favorite ways to take these classic sliders to the next level using strategic swaps and bold flavors—all while keeping prep super simple.
🍳 Breakfast Style Ham Sliders
Turn these into breakfast-friendly ham sliders by adding soft scrambled eggs to the filling and swapping the Swiss for sharp cheddar or American cheese. It’s a delicious way to transform this classic into a savory, protein-packed morning option. Serve them warm for brunch gatherings or cool and packable for busy weekday mornings. They also make excellent high-protein breakfast sliders for meal prep—just store and reheat as needed.
🌶️ Spicy Kick
Want to add a little heat? Layer in sliced jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese instead of provolone. You could even stir a bit of sriracha or hot sauce into the buttery glaze to give it a spicy twist. This is one of my go-to moves when I want to turn a crowd-pleaser into something with an edge—perfect for adults or spice lovers at game day parties.
🧄 Garlic Butter Glaze
For an Italian-inspired twist, replace the Dijon mustard in the glaze with minced garlic and chopped parsley. A touch of parmesan doesn’t hurt either. This garlic butter slider version pairs perfectly with mozzarella or provolone and gives the entire bake a buttery, herb-forward aroma that’s totally craveable. It’s ideal when you want something a little different from the classic brown sugar-Dijon combo.
🥬 Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly Option
Looking for a low-carb ham and cheese slider alternative? Swap the Hawaiian rolls with keto-friendly dinner rolls, low-carb tortillas, or crisp butter lettuce wraps. You still get the same delicious ham and melted cheese filling with a lighter base. According to Harvard Health, a low-carb diet can help support weight management and reduce certain health risks when done correctly. This variation is a great way to enjoy indulgent comfort food while keeping it within your health goals.
🧀 Mix-and-Match Cheeses
Who says you have to pick just one? Blend cheddar with mozzarella for melt and stretch, or try Havarti and gouda for a creamy, rich filling. If you’re going for a gourmet ham slider vibe, a combo of gruyère and caramelized onions adds deep, nutty flavor that turns this into a restaurant-worthy dish.
These variations prove that oven-baked slider sandwiches don’t have to be boring. With just a few tweaks, you can make this recipe fit your flavor mood, dietary preference, or meal prep plan—without losing that craveable combination of melted cheese, tender ham, and perfectly toasted buns.
Storage & Reheat Tips
- Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Wrap in foil and warm in a 325°F oven for 10–12 minutes.
- Freeze: Wrap assembled (unbaked) sliders tightly in foil and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and bake as directed.
Make It a Meal
Pair these sliders with:
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
- Healthy Hashbrown Chaffle Delight
- One-Pan Kielbasa and Potato Skillet
Or explore our Comfort Food Dinner, Easy Dinner Ideas, or Make-Ahead Lunch collections!
FAQs About Ham & Cheese Hawaiian Roll Sliders
Here are the most common questions people ask when searching for Ham & Cheese Hawaiian Roll Sliders—including helpful tips, storage advice, and flavor swaps. These FAQs are built around high-intent long-tail keywords to help this article rank for related queries on Google Search and give your readers the answers they’re actually looking for.
What goes well with ham and cheese sliders?
These sliders pair beautifully with a variety of easy side dishes. I often serve them with pasta salad, kettle chips, coleslaw, fresh fruit, or even a light green salad. If you’re building a bigger spread for a potluck or party, consider pairing them with garlic roasted vegetables, mac and cheese, or sweet potato fries to balance the savory flavors.
Can I make ham and cheese sliders ahead of time?
Absolutely. These are one of the best make-ahead slider sandwich recipes you’ll find. Just assemble the sliders, cover them tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. For the best texture, wait to brush on the buttery glaze until just before baking.
How do I keep sliders from getting soggy?
No one likes a soggy slider. The key is to bake them uncovered for the last few minutes, which helps crisp up the tops. You can also place them on a wire rack right after baking to allow steam to escape from the bottom. And make sure your ham isn’t overly moist—pat it dry with a paper towel if needed.
What cheese works best for ham sliders?
Swiss is the classic, but provolone, cheddar, mozzarella, or Havarti all melt beautifully and add different layers of flavor. For a melty ham and cheese slider recipe, you can also use a blend of cheeses to get both creaminess and stretch.
Can I freeze baked ham and cheese sliders?
Yes, and it works really well! Wrap each one tightly in foil or parchment, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, reheat from frozen in a 325°F oven for 15–20 minutes. This makes them a perfect meal prep ham slider option for busy weeks.
Can I use different types of ham in this recipe?
Absolutely. You can use honey ham for a sweeter flavor, smoked ham for a more savory profile, or even black forest ham if you want a rich, slightly spicy option. For a gourmet party ham slider, try thinly sliced baked ham from the deli counter.
Are ham and cheese sliders good for potlucks?
They’re excellent! These party ham and cheese sandwiches travel well, bake quickly, and stay warm for a while. Plus, since they’re portioned into individual servings, guests can easily grab one without any mess. Just be sure to bring extras—they always go fast!
How do I reheat leftover ham and cheese sliders?
For best results, reheat them in the oven or toaster oven at 325°F for 10–12 minutes. This keeps the bread crisp and the cheese perfectly melty. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the buns rubbery. You can also use an air fryer at 300°F for 5–7 minutes.
What kind of glaze is best for ham sliders?
The classic glaze is a buttery blend of Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. For a sweeter finish, add a touch of honey or maple syrup. For a savory ham slider glaze, swap in garlic, onion powder, or herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Can I make ham sliders without poppy seeds?
Definitely. Poppy seeds add a little crunch and visual flair, but they’re totally optional. For a similar texture, try sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning. Or just skip them if you prefer a smooth, buttery top.
Are these sliders kid-friendly?
Yes! These are one of my go-to kid-friendly ham sliders because they’re bite-sized, not too spicy, and totally customizable. Stick with classic ham and cheddar, or go with mozzarella for an even milder taste. You can also let kids help assemble them—they’ll love brushing on the glaze!
What are the best rolls to use for ham and cheese sliders?
King’s Hawaiian rolls are my go-to for their soft, sweet flavor and perfect size. But you can use any soft dinner rolls or even small brioche buns. If you’re following a special diet, try low-carb rolls or keto-friendly alternatives for a low-carb ham and cheese slider version.
Can I make vegetarian sliders with this recipe?
Yes! Swap the ham for sautéed mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or grilled zucchini. Use your favorite melty cheese and keep the glaze for flavor. It’s an easy way to serve a meatless baked slider sandwich without losing that satisfying texture and taste.
Final Thoughts
These Ham & Cheese Hawaiian Roll Sliders are one of my favorite go-to meals for gatherings or just cozy weeknights. The sweet rolls, savory ham, and creamy cheese come together in a way that’s nostalgic, satisfying, and flat-out delicious. With the buttery Dijon glaze taking it over the top, they’re always the first thing gone at parties.
What makes them so timeless is how versatile they are. You can play with the cheese, try different glazes, or customize them for dietary needs—and they still come out great. They’re easy to make, easy to eat, and easy to love. Whether you’re planning a holiday brunch, hosting a game night, or just need a new family dinner favorite, these sliders deliver on every level.
Trust me—make these once, and they’ll become a regular request in your household.
“Savory ham, melted cheese, and golden sweet rolls—these sliders are bite-sized comfort at its best.” — Sam
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Warm ham, gooey cheese, and buttery sweet rolls baked to perfection—these crowd-pleasing sliders are ready in 30 minutes or less!
