Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls
When you need a recipe that’s guaranteed to disappear fast, Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls are the answer. Sweet, soft rolls filled with savory ham, melty cheese, and brushed with a buttery, seasoned topping—these sliders are the ultimate comfort-food crowd pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a party, planning game-day snacks, or feeding a hungry family, this classic baked slider recipe always delivers.
These sliders are beloved for a reason. They’re easy to assemble, budget-friendly, endlessly adaptable, and packed with flavor in every bite. The slight sweetness of Hawaiian rolls balances perfectly with salty ham and rich cheese, while the buttery topping adds a golden finish that takes them from simple sandwiches to something truly irresistible.
Once you make them, you’ll understand why hot ham and cheese sliders are a staple recipe that people come back to again and again.
Why Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders Are Always a Hit
Few recipes manage to be both nostalgic and universally loved, but this one does. Hot ham and cheese sliders have been showing up at potlucks, parties, and family dinners for decades—and they’re still just as popular today.
Here’s why they work so well:
- Easy to make in large batches
- Perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory
- Kid-friendly and adult-approved
- Great for entertaining or casual meals
- Reheat beautifully
The magic lies in the baking process. When the sliders bake together as a group, the rolls become soft inside, slightly crisp on top, and infused with buttery flavor throughout.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, familiar ingredients that come together effortlessly.
- Hawaiian sweet rolls
- Deli ham, thinly sliced
- Swiss cheese or cheddar cheese
- Unsalted butter
- Yellow mustard or Dijon mustard
- Worcestershire sauce
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Poppy seeds (optional)
That’s it—no complicated steps, no specialty ingredients.
How to Make Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders
These sliders come together quickly, making them ideal for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish. - Slice the Rolls
Keeping the rolls connected, slice them horizontally in half to create a top and bottom slab. - Layer the Filling
Place the bottom half of the rolls into the baking dish. Layer ham evenly over the rolls, followed by slices of cheese. - Add the Top Rolls
Place the top half of the rolls back on, pressing gently. - Make the Butter Topping
Melt butter and stir in mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and poppy seeds. - Brush Generously
Brush the butter mixture evenly over the tops of the rolls, letting it drip into the seams. - Bake Until Golden
Cover loosely with foil and bake until the cheese is melted. Uncover and bake until the tops are golden and glossy. - Slice and Serve
Let cool slightly, then slice into individual sliders and serve warm.
Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Slice rolls in half horizontally without separating them.
- Layer ham and cheese on the bottom half of rolls.
- Place top half of rolls over the filling.
- Mix melted butter, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, seasonings, and poppy seeds.
- Brush butter mixture over rolls.
- Cover and bake until cheese melts, then uncover and bake until golden.
Notes
Tips for Perfect Sliders Every Time
- Use good-quality deli ham for best flavor.
- Don’t skimp on butter—it’s key to that rich, bakery-style finish.
- Cover first, uncover later to prevent over-browning.
- Let them rest briefly so the cheese sets slightly before slicing.
Delicious Variations to Try
Turkey and Cheese Sliders
Swap ham for turkey and use provolone or Swiss cheese.
Honey Mustard Sliders
Add a spoonful of honey to the butter topping for extra sweetness.
Spicy Sliders
Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the butter mixture.
Ham, Cheese, and Bacon
Layer crispy bacon slices with the ham for an indulgent upgrade.
What to Serve with Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders
These sliders pair beautifully with simple sides:
- Potato chips or fries
- Coleslaw
- Pasta salad
- Pickle spears
- Fresh fruit tray
They’re filling enough to stand alone but also fit perfectly into a larger spread.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is.
- Make ahead: Assemble sliders, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
- Store leftovers: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven for best texture.
Why This Recipe Works
Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders succeed because they focus on balance. The sweetness of the rolls offsets the savory filling, while baking everything together ensures flavor in every bite. The butter topping seeps into the rolls, creating a soft interior and lightly crisp exterior that’s completely irresistible.
It’s comfort food at its finest—simple, dependable, and deeply satisfying.
Final Thoughts
Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls are more than just an appetizer—they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that fits nearly any occasion. Easy enough for a weeknight, popular enough for parties, and comforting enough to feel like a classic.
Once you add this recipe to your rotation, it’s bound to become a go-to favorite.
