There is something incredibly satisfying about turning leftovers into a delicious new meal, and that’s exactly what this Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe is all about. These sliders bring together tender slices of leftover ham, melty cheese, and soft Hawaiian rolls, all baked to golden perfection with a buttery, slightly sweet crust. Whether you’re looking to spruce up your leftover ham or simply craving a comforting handheld treat, these sliders are quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. They’re perfect for game day, casual parties, or even a cozy weeknight dinner, making them one of my absolute favorite ways to reinvent leftovers with a special touch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s beautiful about this recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet how much they come together to create something truly crave-worthy. Every component plays its own role: the Hawaiian rolls bring sweetness and softness, the ham adds savory depth, and the cheese melts into the perfect gooey layer. Don’t forget the melted butter that brings it all together with a golden, buttery finish, topped optionally with poppy seeds for a delightful little crunch and added visual appeal.
- 12 Hawaiian rolls: Soft and slightly sweet, these rolls are the perfect slider base that stay tender when baked.
- 2 cups leftover ham, sliced: Using leftover ham saves time and adds a hearty, smoky flavor to each slider.
- 8 slices Swiss or cheddar cheese: Choose your favorite cheese for a melty, creamy texture that complements the ham.
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted: This gives the top a rich, golden finish that enhances every bite.
- Poppy seeds for topping (optional): Adds a subtle crunch and a lovely decorative touch, but feel free to skip if you prefer.
How to Make Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This temperature is just right to warm the ham through, melt the cheese perfectly, and toast the rolls without drying them out. A consistent oven heat ensures every slider comes out evenly golden and delicious.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This small step will help prevent the sliders from sticking to the pan and make cleanup a breeze. Using the right dish size means your sliders fit snugly together, allowing the butter to soak into the rolls as they bake.
Step 3: Assemble the Sliders
Slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally so you have a bottom half and a top half. Layer the sliced leftover ham evenly across the bottom halves, then add the slices of your chosen cheese right on top of the ham. This step is crucial because it ensures every bite has a perfect balance of ham and melty cheese awaiting you.
Step 4: Brush With Butter and Add Toppings
Place the top halves of the rolls back on, making sure they align nicely. Brush the melted butter all over the top generously. If you like, sprinkle poppy seeds right over the butter for a subtle crunch and an appealing speckled look. The butter not only adds flavor but helps create that irresistible golden crust as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake Until Perfectly Warmed
Pop your assembled sliders into the oven for about 15 to 20 minutes. You want to see the cheese melted completely and the tops of the rolls turning a beautiful golden brown. This baking time is short but makes all the difference, turning leftover ingredients into a fresh, comforting meal.
Step 6: Let Cool Slightly and Serve Warm
Once out of the oven, allow the sliders to cool just enough so you can handle them without burning your fingers. Slicing them apart while still warm keeps the cheese wonderfully gooey inside and makes serving easy. These sliders are best enjoyed fresh and warm, though a little cooling time helps all the flavors meld together.
How to Serve Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe
Garnishes
While the sliders are delicious all on their own, adding fresh garnishes can elevate each bite. Try a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives to add brightness and color. A small dollop of Dijon mustard or honey mustard on the side can provide a tangy kick that plays beautifully with the savory ham and creamy cheese.
Side Dishes
Pair these sliders with simple, fresh sides for a well-rounded meal. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich sliders beautifully, while classic coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch. If you want to keep things casual, serve alongside some crunchy veggie sticks or a bowl of your favorite soup for dipping.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party presentation, arrange sliders on a large wooden board or tiered platter for easy grab-and-go enjoyment. You can even skewer each slider with a decorative toothpick topped with olives or cherry tomatoes for a charming appetizer look. Wrapping each slider in parchment paper or serving them in mini baskets lined with wax paper adds to the casual, cozy vibe of this recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your sliders, wrap the leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making them perfect for a quick snack or easy lunch the next day. Keeping them wrapped helps retain moisture so the rolls don’t dry out.
Freezing
If you want to save sliders for longer, you can freeze them by wrapping each one individually in plastic wrap and then placing them in an airtight freezer bag. This method preserves their flavor and texture for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the sliders in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through and the cheese re-melts. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the top crust buttery and slightly crisp. Using the oven ensures the sliders come back tasting just as delightful as when they were freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Swiss and cheddar are classic choices, feel free to experiment with provolone, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack to match your flavor preferences. Just be sure the cheese melts well to get that gooey texture everyone loves.
What if I don’t have Hawaiian rolls?
You can substitute with any soft dinner rolls or slider buns. Just keep in mind that Hawaiian rolls have a unique sweetness and softness that helps balance the savory ham and cheese, so the taste might vary slightly.
Can I make these sliders vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap out the ham for sautéed mushrooms, grilled vegetables, or your favorite plant-based deli slices. Adding a little extra cheese or a flavorful spread can keep these sliders just as satisfying.
Is it okay to add mustard or sauces inside the sliders?
Definitely! Spreading a thin layer of Dijon, honey mustard, or even a bit of mayo on the rolls before adding ham and cheese adds a lovely tang and extra moisture that enhances the overall flavor.
How long do these sliders last once baked?
Once baked, the sliders are best enjoyed within 24 hours for optimal freshness. However, if stored properly in the refrigerator, they can last up to 3 days and still taste delicious when reheated carefully.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a fun, flavorful way to transform your leftover ham, this Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe is a must-try. It’s simple, quick, and delivers big on taste every time. Trust me, these sliders will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen for weeks to come—whether for a casual meal, a gathering, or just because you deserve something tasty and comforting. Go ahead and give them a try; I can’t wait for you to experience just how delicious leftovers can be!
Print
Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders are a quick and delicious way to transform your leftover ham into a warm, cheesy sandwich perfect for any meal or gathering. Made with tender Hawaiian rolls, savory ham, melted Swiss or cheddar cheese, and a buttery poppy seed topping, they bake to golden perfection in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Sliders
- 12 Hawaiian rolls
- 2 cups leftover ham, sliced
- 8 slices Swiss or cheddar cheese
Topping
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- Poppy seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking the sliders.
- Prepare baking dish: Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent the sliders from sticking during baking.
- Assemble sliders: Slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally in half. Layer the sliced leftover ham evenly on the bottom halves, followed by the cheese slices.
- Add toppings: Place the top halves of the rolls over the ham and cheese layers. Brush the tops generously with melted butter and sprinkle poppy seeds on top if desired.
- Bake sliders: Bake the assembled sliders in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until they are heated through and the tops are golden brown.
- Serve: Let the sliders cool slightly before slicing them apart. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can use either Swiss or cheddar cheese based on your preference.
- Poppy seeds on the buttered tops add a nice crunch and flavor but are optional.
- These sliders can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving.
- Great for leftover ham usage and ideal for party appetizers or quick meals.
