Classic Ham and Swiss Sliders
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
I absolutely love making Classic Ham and Swiss Sliders for gatherings. There’s something magical about the combination of warm, toasty rolls filled with savory ham and creamy Swiss cheese, all topped with a buttery sauce. These sliders are quick to assemble and bake, and they disappear in a flash when served. Whether it’s for game day, a picnic, or a family dinner, these sliders are always a crowd-pleaser and can be customized to fit different tastes. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe!
When I first made these Classic Ham and Swiss Sliders, I was amazed at how easy yet satisfying they turned out. The key is to use quality ingredients; I like to use fresh rolls and thick slices of ham and Swiss cheese. I also discovered that allowing the sliders to sit with the buttery topping for a few minutes before baking enhances the flavor even further!
What I love about these sliders is their versatility. You can easily swap the ingredients to cater to your preferences—for example, adding some sliced pickles or mustard for an extra zing. I usually make a double batch because they tend to vanish quickly!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Savory ham and creamy Swiss cheese create a perfect flavor combination
- The buttery topping adds a rich, delicious finish
- Quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion
Perfect Assembly for Maximum Flavor
When assembling your sliders, take care to evenly distribute the ham and cheese to ensure every bite is flavorful. The combination of savory ham and creamy Swiss is crucial here; Swiss cheese melts beautifully, creating a delightful gooey texture that perfectly complements the saltiness of the ham. Use quality ingredients—opt for deli-sliced ham for the best texture and flavor. Additionally, if you're feeling adventurous, you could try adding a layer of sautéed onions or a thin slice of dill pickle to enhance the taste profile.
Don't underestimate the importance of the mayo-mustard spread! This simple mixture acts as a glue for the fillings and adds an extra layer of flavor. If you're aiming for more tang, consider using a Dijon mustard or adding a dash of hot sauce to the mayo. This small adjustment can elevate the overall taste, making your sliders even more intriguing to your guests.
The Art of Baking Sliders
The baking process is key to achieving that irresistible crispy crust on top. Wrapping the sliders in foil initially helps retain moisture, so the cheese becomes melty without drying out. Bake them at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 25 minutes, or until you can see the cheese bubbling and the tops are golden brown. For that extra crispy finish, unwrap them for the last few minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on them to avoid over-browning, particularly if your oven tends to run hot.
If you're preparing these sliders in advance, you can assemble them up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before placing in the oven. This helps ensure even cooking throughout the sliders, leading to perfectly melted cheese in the center.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to get started on your sliders:
For the Sliders
- 12 slider rolls
- 12 slices of ham
- 12 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup mustard
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Once you have all the ingredients ready, you can start assembling your sliders!
Instructions
Here’s how to make these delightful sliders:
Prepare the Sliders
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and mustard. Slice the rolls in half and spread the mayo-mustard mixture on each cut side.
Assemble the Fillings
Layer the ham and cheese on the bottom half of the rolls. Place the top half back on to create your sliders.
Make the Topping Mix
In another bowl, combine the melted butter, poppy seeds, Worcestershire sauce, and onion powder. Brush this mixture over the tops of the sliders.
Bake
Wrap the assembled sliders in foil and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown. Unwrap for the last few minutes for an extra crispy finish.
Serve
Remove from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm!
Your sliders are now ready to impress your guests!
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, try adding jalapeño slices or your favorite hot sauce to the mayo-mustard mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Classic Ham and Swiss Sliders are delightful on their own but can also be paired with various sides for a complete meal. Consider serving them with crispy potato chips or a fresh garden salad for contrast. A side of dill pickle spears complements the savory flavors and adds a delightful crunch. If you're hosting an event, this pairing can significantly enhance the overall experience for your guests.
For children or parties with picky eaters, these sliders can be made with different types of cheese or meats. Try turkey and cheddar for a lighter option or even a vegetarian version with roasted vegetables and mozzarella cheese. Adjusting these sliders to fit various dietary preferences ensures that everyone at your gathering finds something they love.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftover sliders, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, use a microwave or toaster oven; the latter option will help keep the buns crisp. From the fridge, heat them at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, wrapped in foil to prevent them from drying out. This method ensures that the cheese becomes melty again while keeping the buns warm and toasty.
For long-term storage, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked sliders. Wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, there’s no need to thaw; simply bake from frozen for an additional 10-15 minutes, keeping an eye on them so they don’t overcook.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make the sliders ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the sliders and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
→ What can I substitute for Swiss cheese?
You can use any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar or provolone.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.
→ Can I freeze these sliders?
Absolutely! Assemble the sliders, wrap them tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.
Classic Ham and Swiss Sliders
I absolutely love making Classic Ham and Swiss Sliders for gatherings. There’s something magical about the combination of warm, toasty rolls filled with savory ham and creamy Swiss cheese, all topped with a buttery sauce. These sliders are quick to assemble and bake, and they disappear in a flash when served. Whether it’s for game day, a picnic, or a family dinner, these sliders are always a crowd-pleaser and can be customized to fit different tastes. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe!
What You'll Need
For the Sliders
- 12 slider rolls
- 12 slices of ham
- 12 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup mustard
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and mustard. Slice the rolls in half and spread the mayo-mustard mixture on each cut side.
Layer the ham and cheese on the bottom half of the rolls. Place the top half back on to create your sliders.
In another bowl, combine the melted butter, poppy seeds, Worcestershire sauce, and onion powder. Brush this mixture over the tops of the sliders.
Wrap the assembled sliders in foil and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown. Unwrap for the last few minutes for an extra crispy finish.
Remove from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm!
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, try adding jalapeño slices or your favorite hot sauce to the mayo-mustard mixture.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g