Aloha on a Bun: Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe

Craving a taste of the tropics? Yearning for a quick and easy meal that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further than these delectable Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders! These little bites of paradise are the perfect combination of sweet and savory, featuring juicy ham, melted cheese, and the signature sweetness of Hawaiian rolls, all slathered in a luscious honey mustard glaze. Whether you’re hosting a party, packing a lunch, or simply looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner, these sliders are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

This recipe is incredibly versatile and easily adaptable to your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different types of ham and cheese, or add your own unique twist to the glaze. The possibilities are endless! So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed shores of Hawaii with every delicious bite.

## Why You’ll Love These Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders

* **Easy to Make:** This recipe requires minimal effort and time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
* **Kid-Friendly:** The sweet and savory flavors are a hit with kids of all ages.
* **Crowd-Pleasing:** These sliders are always a favorite at parties, potlucks, and game day events.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the recipe to your liking by using different types of ham, cheese, or glaze.
* **Perfect for Any Occasion:** From casual lunches to elegant appetizers, these sliders are versatile enough for any occasion.
* **Portable:** Convenient for picnics, potlucks, or road trips, these sliders are easy to transport and enjoy on the go.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **12 Hawaiian Sweet Rolls:** The key to these sliders is the soft and slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls. Brands like King’s Hawaiian are widely available and work perfectly. You can also use other sweet rolls, but the flavor profile will be slightly different.
* **1 pound Cooked Ham:** Thinly sliced ham is ideal for these sliders. You can use any type of ham you prefer, such as honey ham, black forest ham, or smoked ham. Consider using leftover holiday ham to make these sliders even more special.
* **8 ounces Cheese:** Swiss cheese and provolone cheese are classic choices for these sliders, offering a mild and slightly nutty flavor that complements the ham and sweetness of the rolls. However, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a bolder flavor.
* **4 tablespoons Butter:** Melted butter is used in the glaze to add richness and moisture to the sliders. You can use salted or unsalted butter, depending on your preference.
* **2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard:** Dijon mustard adds a tangy and slightly spicy kick to the glaze, balancing the sweetness of the honey and rolls. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use yellow mustard.
* **2 tablespoons Honey:** Honey adds sweetness and a sticky glaze to the sliders. You can use any type of honey you prefer, such as clover honey, wildflower honey, or manuka honey.
* **1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce:** Worcestershire sauce adds a savory and umami depth of flavor to the glaze. A little goes a long way, so don’t overdo it.
* **1 tablespoon Poppy Seeds (Optional):** Poppy seeds add a subtle nutty flavor and visual appeal to the sliders. They are not essential, but they add a nice touch.
* **1 teaspoon Dried Onion Flakes (Optional):** Dried onion flakes add a hint of onion flavor to the glaze, complementing the ham and cheese. They are also optional, but they add a savory element.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **9×13 inch Baking Dish:** A 9×13 inch baking dish is the perfect size for baking these sliders. You can also use a slightly smaller or larger dish, but you may need to adjust the baking time accordingly.
* **Small Bowl:** A small bowl is needed for mixing the glaze.
* **Whisk or Fork:** Use a whisk or fork to thoroughly combine the glaze ingredients.
* **Basting Brush:** A basting brush is used to brush the glaze over the sliders.
* **Serrated Knife:** A serrated knife is best for slicing the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the most delicious Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders:

**Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish**

* Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the sliders bake evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.
* Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This prevents the sliders from sticking to the dish and makes them easier to remove after baking. You can use cooking spray or butter to grease the dish.

**Step 2: Assemble the Sliders**

* Using a serrated knife, carefully slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the rolls connected. This creates a top and bottom layer for the sliders. Be gentle to avoid tearing the rolls.
* Place the bottom half of the rolls in the prepared baking dish. Arrange them snugly in the dish to prevent them from shifting during baking.
* Layer the ham evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. Make sure to distribute the ham evenly so that each slider gets a good portion of the filling. You can overlap the ham slices slightly if needed.
* Top the ham with the cheese slices. Again, distribute the cheese evenly over the ham. You can use more or less cheese depending on your preference.
* Place the top half of the rolls over the cheese. Gently press down on the top rolls to ensure they adhere to the filling.

**Step 3: Make the Honey Mustard Glaze**

* In a small bowl, melt the butter. You can melt the butter in the microwave or in a small saucepan over low heat. Be careful not to burn the butter.
* Add the Dijon mustard, honey, and Worcestershire sauce to the melted butter. Use a whisk or fork to thoroughly combine the ingredients until smooth and well blended.
* Stir in the poppy seeds and dried onion flakes (if using). These ingredients add extra flavor and texture to the glaze. Mix well to distribute them evenly.

**Step 4: Glaze and Bake the Sliders**

* Brush the honey mustard glaze evenly over the top of the rolls. Make sure to coat all of the rolls with the glaze for maximum flavor and moisture. You can use a basting brush to apply the glaze.
* Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This prevents the tops of the rolls from browning too quickly and ensures that the cheese melts completely.
* Bake for 15 minutes covered. This allows the cheese to melt and the sliders to heat through.
* Remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the tops of the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Keep a close eye on the sliders during this step to prevent them from burning.

**Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!**

* Remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes the sliders easier to handle.
* Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the sliders into individual portions. Cut along the seams of the rolls to create even sliders.
* Serve the Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders warm and enjoy! These sliders are delicious on their own, or you can serve them with a side of coleslaw, potato salad, or fruit salad.

## Tips and Tricks for Perfect Sliders

* **Don’t Overbake:** Overbaking will dry out the rolls and make the cheese hard. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the rolls are golden brown.
* **Use a Serrated Knife:** A serrated knife is the best tool for slicing the Hawaiian rolls without tearing them.
* **Don’t Skip the Foil:** Covering the sliders with foil during the first part of baking prevents the rolls from browning too quickly and ensures that the cheese melts completely.
* **Let Them Cool Slightly:** Letting the sliders cool for a few minutes before serving allows the cheese to set and makes them easier to handle.
* **Get Creative with the Glaze:** Experiment with different flavors in the glaze. Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or a splash of pineapple juice for extra sweetness.
* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** The better the quality of the ingredients you use, the better the sliders will taste.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Different Cheeses:** Try using different cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
* **Different Meats:** Substitute the ham with turkey, roast beef, or pulled pork for a different twist.
* **Vegetarian Option:** Replace the ham with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions for a vegetarian version.
* **Spicy Sliders:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a little heat.
* **Pineapple Sliders:** Add a few slices of grilled pineapple to the sliders for an extra dose of tropical flavor.
* **Garlic Butter Glaze:** Substitute the honey mustard glaze with a garlic butter glaze for a savory alternative. To make a garlic butter glaze, melt butter and mix it with minced garlic, parsley, and Parmesan cheese.

## Serving Suggestions

These Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides:

* **Coleslaw:** The creamy and tangy flavors of coleslaw complement the sweetness of the sliders.
* **Potato Salad:** A classic side dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
* **Fruit Salad:** A refreshing and healthy side that balances the richness of the sliders.
* **Pasta Salad:** A hearty and flavorful side that’s perfect for a potluck or picnic.
* **Chips and Dip:** A simple and easy side that’s always a hit.
* **Pickles:** The tangy and sour flavors of pickles provide a nice contrast to the sweet and savory sliders.

## Make-Ahead Instructions

These sliders can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. Simply assemble the sliders according to the recipe instructions, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake them, remove them from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.

## Storage Instructions

Leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the sliders in aluminum foil and bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

## Recipe Card

**Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders**

A quick and easy recipe for delicious Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sliders, perfect for parties, potlucks, or a weeknight meal.

**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 20 minutes
**Total Time:** 35 minutes
**Servings:** 12 sliders

**Ingredients:**

* 12 Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
* 1 pound Cooked Ham, thinly sliced
* 8 ounces Cheese (Swiss, Provolone, Cheddar, etc.)
* 4 tablespoons Butter, melted
* 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard
* 2 tablespoons Honey
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
* 1 tablespoon Poppy Seeds (optional)
* 1 teaspoon Dried Onion Flakes (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Slice Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally.
3. Place bottom half of rolls in baking dish.
4. Layer ham and cheese evenly over the bottom rolls.
5. Place top half of rolls over the cheese.
6. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, Dijon mustard, honey, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds (optional), and dried onion flakes (optional).
7. Brush the glaze evenly over the top of the rolls.
8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
9. Bake for 15 minutes covered.
10. Remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until golden brown and cheese is melted.
11. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

**Enjoy!**

## Nutrition Information (per slider, approximate):

* Calories: 250-300
* Fat: 15-20g
* Saturated Fat: 8-12g
* Cholesterol: 50-70mg
* Sodium: 500-700mg
* Carbohydrates: 20-25g
* Sugar: 8-12g
* Protein: 10-15g

*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.*