Baked Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe

Few things say delicious comfort food like Baked Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders. Tender, golden Hawaiian rolls cradle stacks of savory deli ham and creamy Swiss cheese, all brought together by a rich, buttery poppy seed and garlic glaze. The melty cheese pulls alone are enough to make these sliders pop at any gathering, while their sweet-and-savory flavor combo keeps people reaching for seconds (and thirds). Whether you’re welcoming friends for game day or cozying up for a simple family dinner, these sliders promise to be the dish everyone can’t stop talking about.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, quality ingredients are what make these sliders unforgettable. Each component plays a key role, providing the signature flavor, texture, or that little extra bit of magic. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Hawaiian sweet rolls: Their soft, pillowy texture and hint of sweetness are the base for these sliders—try to use King’s Hawaiian for the most authentic flavor.
• Deli ham: Go for a quality sliced ham—its salty, meaty goodness pairs perfectly with the sweet rolls and melty cheese.
• Swiss cheese: This cheese melts like a dream and brings just the right amount of tang and creaminess to each bite.
• Unsalted butter: Melted butter forms the base of the glaze, making every slider golden and decadent.
• Dijon mustard: Adds a pop of mild heat and complexity, keeping things from tasting too sweet.
• Poppy seeds: A sprinkle of these tiny seeds not only looks beautiful but adds a gentle crunch and earthy notes.
• Minced onion: Onion boosts the savoriness factor, complementing the ham beautifully.
• Worcestershire sauce: Just a touch brings a deep, umami richness that rounds out the glaze.
• Garlic powder: Lends warmth and aromatic depth, infusing the sliders with comfort food vibes.

How to Make Baked Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Without pulling apart the rolls, carefully slice the entire slab of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally—like opening a big sandwich. This keeps the bottoms together, making assembly and serving a breeze later on.

Step 2: Build Your Slider Layers

Place the bottom half of the rolls in the baking dish, then layer on your ham slices so they evenly cover the entire surface. Next, add the Swiss cheese—cutting each slice in half ensures you get cheese in every bite without overhanging edges that could burn. After the cheese, top with the other half of the rolls.

Step 3: Mix Up the Irresistible Glaze

Grab a small bowl and pour in your melted butter. To that golden base, add Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, minced onion, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Whisk it all together until the mixture is fragrant and speckled with seeds. This glaze is the secret sauce that transforms the sliders into something unforgettable.

Step 4: Soak and Bake

Pour the glaze evenly over the tops of the assembled sliders, making sure every roll gets a generous coating. Let the dish sit for about 10 minutes so the buttery mixture can really soak in. Cover the pan with foil and bake for 15 minutes to get things gooey and steamy, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5–8 minutes. You’re looking for golden, slightly crisp tops and bubbling cheese along the edges.

Step 5: Slice and Serve Warm

Once baked, let the sliders cool for a couple of minutes (if you can resist diving in!). Use a sharp knife to cut along the roll lines, making 12 perfect pieces. Serve them while they’re warm and melty—trust me, they disappear fast!

How to Serve Baked Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders

Garnishes

For a nice finishing touch, sprinkle the freshly baked sliders with a few extra poppy seeds or some chopped fresh parsley. If you like heat, a light drizzle of mild sriracha mayo or honey mustard on the side gives everyone a fun way to dip.

Side Dishes

Baked Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders are deliciously rich and flavorful, so pairing them with light, fresh sides works wonders. Think crisp coleslaw, a tangy cucumber salad, or even a bowl of sweet pineapple chunks. Chips, potato salad, or classic pickles also make fantastic, no-fuss additions for larger gatherings.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeding a crowd, arrange the sliders on a wooden cutting board or a bright platter for a rustic, party-ready vibe. For more personal servings, tuck each slider into a parchment paper pocket or cupcake liner. You can even use toothpicks with festive flags to make individual bites easy to grab and less messy for little hands.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra sliders (a true rarity!), let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’ll still be soft and tasty—just revive them before serving so the cheese gets all melty again.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze Baked Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders. After baking, let them cool, wrap tightly in foil, and place in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They keep well in the freezer for up to one month—perfect for prepping ahead for busy weeks or unexpected guests.

Reheating

To reheat, place sliders (thawed if frozen) in a 350°F oven for about 10–15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent over-browning. For a crispier top, remove the foil during the last few minutes. You want the cheese hot and gooey, and the tops lightly toasted for that fresh-from-the-oven feel.

FAQs

Can I make Baked Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble the sliders and mix up the glaze a day in advance. Store everything separately in the fridge, then glaze and bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

What other cheeses can I use besides Swiss?

Swiss cheese is classic, but you can mix things up with provolone, cheddar, Gruyère, or even pepper jack if you’d like a little spice. Any good melting cheese works—pick your favorite!

Do I have to use poppy seeds?

No worries if you’re out of poppy seeds or want to skip them. You can leave them off or swap in sesame seeds for a different look and subtle crunch. The glaze and sliders will still taste delicious.

Can I make these sliders gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute with your favorite gluten-free soft dinner rolls and double check that your ham and condiments are gluten-free. The sliders will still be every bit as delicious.

Are Baked Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders good for kids?

These sliders are usually a huge hit with kids thanks to their soft texture, gentle flavors, and cheesy goodness. You can even let little helpers assemble the layers for some fun in the kitchen!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that’s easy, fast, and seriously delicious, Baked Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders are your new go-to. I can’t wait for you to try them—once you see how quickly they disappear, you’ll know exactly why they’ve become a family favorite around here!