Ham and Cheese Sliders Make Ahead

Introduction

Ham and Cheese Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, boasting gooey cheese, savory ham, and buttery baked rolls that are irresistibly delicious. This make-ahead version is perfect for parties, tailgate food spreads, or a fuss-free weeknight dinner—you can assemble everything in advance, then bake when ready to serve, so there’s no last-minute scramble.

Why These Ham and Cheese Sliders Are a Guaranteed Hit

These sliders deliver a delightful mix of flavors: sweet Hawaiian rolls hug layers of thinly sliced ham and Swiss cheese, with a buttery mustard topping that soaks into every bite. Their compact size and big flavor make them perfect handheld sandwiches for any gathering. Preparing these ahead—then baking when needed—ensures fresh, melty, and perfectly crisped slider buns every single time.

Essential Prep for Make-Ahead Ham and Cheese Sliders

Preparation is simple. Begin by slicing your dinner rolls horizontally while keeping the bottoms intact—a Bamboo Cutting Boards for Kitchen, Set of 3 will help keep your prep tidy. Layer on the thin-sliced ham and your favorite melty cheese, then reassemble the tops and arrange them in a baking dish.

For even cheese distribution and easy slicing, use a sharp KitchenAid All Purpose Kitchen Shears with Protective Sheath, Black. Making these ahead is a breeze: simply assemble, cover, and refrigerate until it’s time to bake.

Make-Ahead Instructions and Finishing Touches

When you’re ready to bake, whip up the buttery topping by combining melted butter, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, and a sprinkle of dried onion. Brush generously over the sliders for incredible flavor and signature glossy tops.

Line your baking dish with a sheet of Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll to ensure cleanup is quick and the bottoms won’t stick. Bake until the cheese is enticingly melty and the tops are crisp and golden. For best results, allow the sliders to cool for just a couple of minutes before slicing with a sturdy, flat spatula.

Serve and Store: Party-Ready, Portable Perfection

Serve these sliders directly from the baking dish or on a tray covered with a Pureegg Plastic Table Cloth Disposable 10 Pack, White, making cleanup a snap for large groups or tailgate food gatherings. Leftovers can be wrapped and stored in the fridge—simply pop them back in the oven or briefly microwave for a quick snack or lunch the next day.

Tailor the ham and cheese sliders for any occasion by swapping Swiss cheese for cheddar or gouda, or adding a swipe of honey mustard for extra tang.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This recipe yields 12 sliders. Each slider contains approximately 220–250 calories, depending on cheese and topping portions. Perfect as a hearty finger food or snack-sized sandwich.

Recap: Effortless, Flavor-Packed Sliders in Advance

These ham and cheese sliders are packed with melty cheese, savory ham, and an indulgent buttery topping, all nestled in pillowy rolls. Assemble ahead for unbeatable ease—the perfect make-ahead addition to your sandwich repertoire, game day tailgate food, or any festive event.

Instructions

1. Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the bottoms together as a single piece. Place the bottom halves in a 9×13-inch baking dish (use a layer of Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll for easy clean-up).
2. Layer sliced ham evenly over the rolls, followed by Swiss cheese. Place the roll tops back on.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, minced onion, garlic powder, black pepper, and honey (if using).
4. Brush the butter mixture thoroughly over the top of the rolls with a pastry brush. Cover the dish tightly with foil for make-ahead: refrigerate up to 24 hours.
5. To bake, preheat the oven to 350°F. Keep sliders covered with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake 5–8 more minutes, until tops are golden and cheese is melted.
6. Let cool for 5 minutes, then pull apart or slice into individual sliders before serving.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes (or up to 24 hours ahead for make-ahead option)

Enjoy making these crowd-pleasing, make-ahead Ham and Cheese Sliders: perfect as sandwiches for tailgate food, parties, or any occasion where delicious, fuss-free food is a must!