Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders

These buttery ham and Havarti cheese sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser for parties and family brunches. The soft Hawaiian rolls soak up a golden mustard poppy seed glaze while melting cheese and savory ham bring everything together in just thirty minutes. I have whipped these up for potlucks and holiday mornings and always leave with an empty plate.

Every batch I make disappears faster than I can set them out I remember the first time I made them for a hungry crowd during a big football game and even those who swore they were not hungry came back for more

Ingredients

• Savory Butter Hawaiian Rolls: add sweetness and pillowy texture use the freshest rolls you can find or even bake your own if you are feeling ambitious
• Black Forest Ham: gives rich smoky flavor opt for freshly sliced ham from the deli for the best taste and texture
• Havarti Cheese: melts beautifully and is extra creamy choose a block and slice it yourself if possible for smooth results
• Salted Butter: forms the base for the decadent glaze pick a quality butter for best flavor
• Dijon Mustard: adds tang and brightness choose a smooth Dijon for even mixing
• Worcestershire Sauce: gives umami depth totally optional but adds a little something extra
• Onion Powder: a subtle and savory note this is optional if you want a lighter glaze
• Poppy Seeds: provide a little crunch and classic slider look make sure they are fresh and aromatic

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Rolls and Pan

Using a sharp bread knife slice the entire block of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally keep the rolls attached for easy assembly Lightly grease the bottom of a nine by twelve baking pan with butter This keeps the sliders from sticking and gives nice crispy edges

Layer Ham and Cheese

Place the bottom half of the rolls in the prepared pan Lay out a single slice of black forest ham on each roll Top each with half a slice of creamy Havarti cheese Make sure each roll is covered edge to edge so every bite is cheesy and rich

Make the Buttery Mustard Glaze

In a microwavable bowl gently melt the salted butter about thirty seconds in the microwave is usually perfect Immediately stir in Dijon mustard poppy seeds Worcestershire sauce if using and onion powder if you want extra zest Whisk until the mixture is smooth and the poppy seeds are well distributed

Assemble and Brush the Sliders

Replace the top half of the rolls over the layered ham and cheese With a clean silicone brush generously coat the tops of the rolls with your buttery mustard poppy seed glaze This step makes the sliders shiny flavorful and a bit crunchy on top

Bake to Melty Perfection

Cover the baking dish loosely with foil so that the tops do not brown too quickly Place in a preheated oven at three hundred fifty degrees Bake for fifteen minutes then remove the foil and bake five minutes longer so the cheese is completely melted and the tops are golden brown Serve hot

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One of my favorite things about this recipe is watching the buttery glaze bubble up around the buns My kids call it the golden magic Every holiday breakfast is not complete until these come out of the oven

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers cool sliders completely before wrapping them tightly in foil or an airtight container Store in the refrigerator for up to three days To reheat cover with foil and warm in the oven at three hundred degrees until heated through The sliders freeze beautifully Just wrap individual portions and thaw overnight before reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap Havarti for Swiss or provolone if you like a nutty or sharper cheese flavor Leftover turkey or roast beef also works instead of ham For a vegetarian twist use sautéed mushrooms and spinach More or less mustard in the glaze can change the kick to your liking

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Serving Suggestions

These sliders shine as an appetizer brunch star or easy dinner Serve alongside a bowl of fresh fruit or a crisp green salad They also pair perfectly with tomato soup or breakfast potatoes For something special try a pickle tray or baked beans on the side

The Story Behind Ham and Cheese Sliders

This classic American comfort food became wildly popular at potlucks and family gatherings thanks to its make-ahead ease and endless flavor options The signature poppy seed glaze is a nod to deli sandwiches found in Midwest lunch counters I first tried these in a neighbor’s kitchen when I moved to the Midwest and was instantly hooked

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Havarti?

Yes, Swiss, provolone, or cheddar all work well for melting and pair nicely with ham on Hawaiian rolls.

→ How can I keep the rolls from getting soggy?

Brushing with the melted butter mixture just before baking and serving promptly helps maintain perfect texture.

→ Can these sliders be assembled ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the sliders and keep them covered in the fridge. Add the topping and bake when ready to serve.

→ Is the Worcestershire sauce required in the glaze?

No, it's optional. The glaze is flavorful without it, but Worcestershire adds a subtle depth if you have it on hand.

→ What sides pair well with these sliders?

Try serving with fresh fruit, a green salad, or potato chips for easy sides that complement the flavors.