You’ll love these Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders! Perfect for any gathering, these sliders combine savory black forest ham and creamy Havarti cheese, all nestled in buttery Hawaiian rolls. The addition of a mustard and poppy seed glaze elevates these sliders to a must-try appetizer that will delight your guests at parties, brunches, or game days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These sliders can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making them a fantastic last-minute option.
- Crowd-Pleaser: They are always a hit at parties and gatherings, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
- Flavorful Layers: The combination of ham, Havarti cheese, and the buttery glaze creates an irresistible flavor profile.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as an appetizer, snack, or even for breakfast!
- Minimal Cleanup: Using just one baking dish means less time spent on cleaning up after your meal.
Tools and Preparation
To make these Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish (9×12)
- Knife
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Pastry brush
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and browning of the sliders.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing the rolls easy and precise.
- Microwave-safe bowl: Ideal for melting butter quickly without fuss.
- Pastry brush: Perfect for applying the buttery glaze evenly on top of the rolls.
Ingredients
For the Sliders
- 1 package Savory Butter Hawaiian Rolls (12 count)
- 12 slices black forest ham
- 6 slices Havarti cheese
For the Glaze
- 4 tbsp salted butter
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1/4 tsp onion powder (optional)
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds
How to Make Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders
Step 1: Prepare Rolls and Baking Dish
- Slice the entire block of rolls in half without separating them.
- Remove the top half of Hawaiian rolls and set it aside.
- Place the bottom half of the rolls in a lightly greased 9×12 baking pan.
Step 2: Add Ham and Cheese
- Layer each roll with a slice of black forest ham.
- Top each slice of ham with half a slice of Havarti cheese.
Step 3: Prepare and Add Buttery Topping
- In a microwavable bowl, cover and heat the salted butter for about 30 seconds or until melted.
- Stir in Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce (if using), onion powder (if using), and poppy seeds until well combined.
- Add the top layer of rolls back on top of the ham and cheese.
- Brush the butter-poppy seed mixture generously over the tops of the rolls.
Step 4: Bake
- Loosely cover the pan with foil.
- Bake at 350˚F for about 15 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until cheese is melted, and tops are golden brown.
Enjoy your delicious Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders as they come out warm from the oven!
How to Serve Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders
Serving Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders is all about creating an inviting atmosphere. These sliders are versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides or served as is for a delicious snack.
For Game Day
- Set up a slider bar: Offer toppings like lettuce, tomato, and pickles so guests can customize their own sliders.
- Pair with beer: A light lager complements the savory flavors of ham and cheese perfectly.
At Brunch
- Serve with fresh fruit: A platter of mixed berries adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sliders.
- Include mimosas: This classic brunch drink pairs well with the buttery flavor of the sliders.
As Party Appetizers
- Add dips on the side: Consider mustard or ranch for extra flavor options.
- Arrange on a platter: Present them neatly with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
For Family Gatherings
- Serve warm from the oven: Freshly baked sliders will impress your family and friends.
- Garnish with herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a nice touch.
How to Perfect Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders
To ensure your Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh rolls and quality ham make a big difference in flavor.
- Don’t overfill: Keep layers moderate to prevent soggy bottoms while baking.
- Let them rest before serving: Allowing them to cool slightly helps keep everything intact when slicing.
- Experiment with cheeses: Try switching up Havarti with Gruyère or Swiss for different tastes.
Best Side Dishes for Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders
Pairing side dishes with your Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders enhances your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds texture and balances the richness of the sliders.
- Potato Chips: Classic chips provide a salty crunch that pairs well with ham and cheese.
- Veggie Platter: Fresh veggies offer a healthy contrast, perfect for dipping in hummus or ranch dressing.
- Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness complements the savory flavors of the sliders nicely.
- Pickle Spear: A tangy pickle cuts through the richness, making it a great palate cleanser.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brings a sweet, juicy element to your table.
- Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad is another comforting side that everyone loves.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides freshness and sweetness to balance out the meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the butter: Not using enough butter can lead to dry sliders. Ensure you generously apply the buttery topping for flavor and moisture.
- Overcrowding the pan: If your sliders are too close together, they won’t bake evenly. Make sure there’s space between each slider for better results.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold ham and cheese can prevent even melting. Bring all ingredients to room temperature before assembling your sliders for optimal gooeyness.
- Not covering while baking: Failing to loosely cover with foil can cause the tops to over-brown before the cheese melts. Always use foil initially to retain moisture.
- Ignoring the resting time: Cutting into the sliders immediately can make them fall apart. Let them rest for a few minutes after baking for better structure.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders
- Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place sliders on a baking sheet and cover with foil; heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place one slider on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for about 30 seconds, checking if heated through.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add sliders, cover, and cook for about 5 minutes until warm, flipping halfway.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! You can substitute other cheeses like Swiss or cheddar for a different flavor profile while still keeping that creamy texture.
How do I make these sliders vegetarian?
To make vegetarian Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders, replace the ham with grilled vegetables or a plant-based deli meat alternative.
What sides pair well with Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders?
These sliders go well with chips, pickles, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone.
Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble them ahead of time, cover them tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. They make an excellent make-ahead option!
Final Thoughts
Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with different meats or cheeses according to your taste preferences. Whether you serve them at parties or enjoy them as a snack at home, these sliders are bound to impress!
Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders
Get ready to impress your guests with these Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders! This irresistible appetizer features layers of savory black forest ham and creamy Havarti cheese, all nestled in soft, buttery Hawaiian rolls. Finished with a delightful mustard and poppy seed glaze, these sliders are the perfect addition to any gathering—be it a party, brunch, or game day. Quick to prepare in just 30 minutes, they are sure to please both kids and adults alike, making them a must-try recipe for your next event.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 sliders
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 12 Savory Butter Hawaiian Rolls
- 12 slices black forest ham
- 6 slices Havarti cheese
- 4 tbsp salted butter
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half without separating them and place the bottom half in a greased baking dish.
- Layer each roll with black forest ham and top with Havarti cheese.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt butter and mix in Dijon mustard and poppy seeds. Brush over the top of the rolls.
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 15 minutes; remove foil and bake an additional 5 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider (60g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 570mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
