Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders are a deliciously easy dish that’s perfect for casual gatherings, family dinners, potlucks, or game-day snacks. These sliders are a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and cheesy flavors, all wrapped up in soft, pillowy Hawaiian rolls. Whether enjoyed as appetizers, snacks, or a quick meal, this versatile dish is sure to please everyone.
Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian rolls (e.g., King’s Hawaiian)
- 12 slices of deli ham (black forest or honey ham work well)
- 12 slices of Swiss cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. - Prepare the Rolls
Without separating the rolls, slice them horizontally in half to create a top and bottom layer.
Place the bottom layer of rolls in the prepared baking dish. - Layer the Fillings
Layer the ham slices evenly over the bottom layer of rolls.
Add a slice of Swiss cheese on top of each slice of ham.
Place the top layer of rolls over the cheese. - Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and onion powder.
Stir in the poppy seeds, if using. - Assemble the Sliders
Pour the glaze evenly over the top of the rolls, ensuring they are well-coated.
Use a spatula or brush to spread the glaze for even coverage. - Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted. - Serve
Let the sliders cool slightly, then cut them apart and serve warm. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces or sides.
Nutrients
Note: Nutritional information is not explicitly provided in the source, but based on general ingredients used in the recipe, here’s an estimated breakdown per slider:
- Calories: Approx. 150–200 calories per slider
- Protein: 7–9 grams
- Carbs: 15–20 grams
- Fat: 9–12 grams
- Fiber: 1–2 grams
- Sugar: 4–6 grams (from the honey and rolls)
Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders are a crowd-pleasing dish that perfectly blends sweet, savory, and cheesy flavors, making them an excellent choice for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a casual family dinner, hosting a potluck, or looking for the perfect snack during game day, these sliders will surely be a hit. With their soft, pillowy Hawaiian rolls and delectable layers of ham and cheese, they offer a delightful mix of textures and tastes that are both satisfying and easy to prepare.
The Origin of Hawaiian Rolls
The key component of this dish is the famous Hawaiian rolls. These soft, slightly sweet bread rolls have become a staple in American kitchens over the past few decades, particularly for making sliders and sandwiches. The origin of these rolls dates back to the 1950s, when they were first introduced by the King’s Hawaiian brand. Founded by Robert Taira, a Japanese immigrant who moved to Hawaii, King’s Hawaiian rolls were inspired by a blend of traditional American bread-making techniques and the flavors of Hawaii. The sweetness of the bread comes from the use of pineapple juice, a nod to the tropical island’s fruit.
The success of King’s Hawaiian rolls skyrocketed in the 1990s as more people discovered their irresistible flavor and texture. Today, they are widely available, and many people use them for making sliders, especially in recipes like this one. The rolls’ delicate sweetness is a perfect contrast to the savory flavors of the ham and cheese, which makes them a beloved choice for this type of sandwich.
The Allure of Ham and Cheese Sliders
Ham and cheese sliders have been a popular snack and meal option for decades, thanks to their simplicity, convenience, and versatility. These mini sandwiches are ideal for quick meals, and they’re easily customizable, so you can adjust the fillings and toppings to suit your preferences.
When paired with Hawaiian rolls, the savory ham and creamy cheese create a balanced flavor profile. The sweetness of the bread elevates the overall taste of the sandwich, making it more indulgent and delicious. The addition of Swiss cheese enhances the richness of the sliders, while the Dijon mustard, honey, and Worcestershire sauce glaze adds a savory depth that ties everything together.
This dish is particularly appealing for gatherings, where it can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving. This makes it an incredibly convenient option when you’re looking for something delicious yet easy to prepare.
How the Glaze Takes These Sliders to the Next Level
One of the elements that sets Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders apart from other types of sliders is the glaze that is poured over the top before baking. The combination of melted butter, Dijon mustard, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and onion powder creates a savory-sweet sauce that coats the rolls and soaks into the bread, adding flavor and moisture throughout.
The Dijon mustard gives the glaze a tangy sharpness that cuts through the richness of the cheese and ham, while the honey adds a touch of sweetness to complement the Hawaiian rolls. Worcestershire sauce contributes a savory umami note that enhances the overall flavor profile, while the onion powder offers a mild, aromatic depth.
The poppy seeds sprinkled on top of the sliders add a touch of crunch and visual appeal, though they are entirely optional. Regardless of whether you include them, the glaze will transform your sliders into a flavorful and mouthwatering dish.
Why Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders Are Perfect for Any Occasion
Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed for any occasion. Here are just a few reasons why they make the perfect dish:
- Ease of Preparation: The simplicity of this recipe makes it an excellent option for beginner cooks or anyone who is looking to prepare something quickly. With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have these sliders ready in no time. The recipe requires no special equipment and can be made in one baking dish, making cleanup a breeze.
- Perfect for Large Gatherings: Whether you’re hosting a family reunion, throwing a game day party, or bringing a dish to a potluck, these sliders are a great choice. The recipe can easily be scaled up to feed a crowd, and they can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving, saving you time on the day of your event.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of sweet Hawaiian rolls, savory ham, creamy cheese, and the flavorful glaze ensures that everyone, from children to adults, will enjoy these sliders. The balance of flavors is what makes this dish universally loved—it appeals to those with a sweet tooth as well as those who enjoy savory foods.
- Customizable: While the recipe calls for Swiss cheese and deli ham, you can easily swap these out for other varieties. You could use cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack cheese for a different flavor. If you prefer turkey over ham, it can be substituted without compromising the overall flavor. The sliders can also be made vegetarian by using grilled vegetables or tofu instead of ham.
- Great for Leftovers: These sliders are just as delicious the next day. If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge and reheated in the oven for a quick and easy meal. The glaze helps keep the rolls soft and flavorful, ensuring that they stay enjoyable even after being stored.
Nutritional Information of Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders
While these sliders are indulgent, they are relatively easy to fit into a balanced diet. With each slider containing approximately 150–200 calories, they are a moderate option for those who want to enjoy a tasty snack without overindulging. The protein content (7–9 grams per slider) comes primarily from the ham and cheese, providing a decent amount of sustenance.
The carbohydrates in the sliders mainly come from the Hawaiian rolls, which are made from enriched flour. While the bread is not considered a low-carb option, it is rich in flavor and contributes to the overall deliciousness of the dish. For those mindful of their calorie intake, the sliders can be served as a small portion or paired with a lighter side dish, such as a fresh salad or vegetable platter.
If you’re looking to make the recipe a bit lighter, consider using lower-fat cheese or opting for a reduced-calorie version of the rolls. Additionally, substituting turkey or chicken for the ham can reduce the overall fat content.
Conclusion: A Delicious and Easy-to-Make Crowd Favorite
Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders are a fantastic addition to any meal or event, offering a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will satisfy everyone’s taste buds. Their sweet, savory, and cheesy combination makes them an irresistible treat that’s ideal for any occasion. With minimal preparation, you can create a dish that not only looks impressive but tastes incredible too.
Whether you’re serving them at a party, bringing them to a potluck, or making them for a family dinner, these sliders are bound to be a crowd favorite. Their versatility, ease of preparation, and ability to be customized ensure that they can be enjoyed by all, regardless of dietary preferences. And with the delicious glaze that coats the rolls, each bite will be bursting with flavor.
So, the next time you’re looking for a simple yet delicious recipe that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings, Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders should be at the top of your list.