Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders

You’ll love these Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders! These delightful oven-baked sliders combine the creamy goodness of Havarti cheese with savory black forest ham, all nestled in buttery Hawaiian rolls. They’re perfect for parties, game day, or a cozy family brunch. The standout feature is the delectable buttery mustard glaze that takes these sliders to the next level, making them a guaranteed hit at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few steps, you can whip up these delicious sliders in no time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a party or a casual dinner, everyone loves ham and cheese sliders!
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite types of cheese or meats.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These sliders are great for appetizers, brunches, or even as a quick snack.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of ingredients creates a mouthwatering taste that keeps you coming back for more.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make preparation smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×12 baking dish
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Pastry brush
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A sturdy dish ensures even cooking and makes it easy to serve.
• Microwave-Safe Bowl: Perfect for melting butter quickly without fuss.
• Pastry Brush: Helps apply the buttery glaze evenly for maximum flavor.
• Knife: Essential for slicing rolls and layering ingredients efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Sliders

• 1 package Savory Butter Hawaiian Rolls (12 count)
• 12 slices black forest ham
• 6 slices Havarti cheese

For the Topping

• 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

Start by slicing the entire block of rolls in half without fully separating them. Remove the top half of the Hawaiian rolls and set it aside. Place the bottom half in a lightly greased 9×12 baking pan.

Step 2: Add Ham and Cheese

Layer each roll with one slice of black forest ham followed by a half slice of Havarti cheese. Ensure every slider is filled with deliciousness.

Step 3: Prepare and Add Buttery Topping

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the salted butter for about 30 seconds. Once melted, stir in Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce (if using), onion powder (if using), and poppy seeds. Brush this mixture generously over the top layer of rolls.

Step 4: Bake

Loosely cover the baking dish with foil and bake at 350˚F for about 15 minutes. After that time, remove the foil and bake an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and tops of buns are golden brown. Enjoy your Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders fresh out of the oven!

How to Serve Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders

Serving ham and Havarti cheese sliders can elevate any gathering, from casual brunches to festive parties. These delicious little sandwiches are versatile and can be paired with various sides or served in unique ways.

Pair with Dips

• Mustard Dip: A simple Dijon mustard dip enhances the flavor of the sliders.
• Honey Mustard: Sweet honey mustard provides a delightful contrast to the savory ham.
• Creamy Ranch: A cool ranch dip adds an extra layer of creaminess.

Add Fresh Garnishes

• Pickles: Slices of dill pickles offer a crunchy texture that complements the sliders.
• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkling fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Sliced Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes provide a juicy, refreshing bite.

Create a Slider Platter

• Mixed Meats: Include a variety of meats alongside the ham and Havarti for a charcuterie feel.
• Cheese Selection: Offer different cheeses to pair with the sliders, enhancing the tasting experience.
• Colorful Veggies: Add colorful veggies like bell peppers and carrots for crunch and nutrition.

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How to Perfect Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders

Perfecting your ham and Havarti cheese sliders takes just a few simple tips to ensure they are always a hit at your gatherings.

• Flavors: Use high-quality black forest ham and rich Havarti cheese for maximum flavor impact.
• Proper Buttering: Generously butter both layers of rolls for added richness and moisture.
• Even Baking: Loosely cover with foil during baking to prevent over-browning while ensuring even melting of cheese.
• Rest Before Serving: Let sliders sit for a few minutes after baking; this helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders

Complement your ham and Havarti cheese sliders with these delicious side dishes that enhance the overall meal experience.

1. Crispy Potato Chips: The crunchiness pairs perfectly with the soft sliders, adding texture.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides freshness and acidity, balancing the richness of the cheese.
3. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds a sweet note that contrasts well with savory flavors.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of sweet potato fries creates an enjoyable flavor pairing.
5. Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad offers vibrant colors and nutrients to round out the meal.
6. Deviled Eggs: These classic appetizers are always a crowd-pleaser, providing creamy goodness alongside your sliders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders even better. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the butter: Not using enough butter can lead to dry sliders. Make sure to generously brush the tops with the buttery glaze for extra flavor.
• Overheating the cheese: If you bake the sliders too long, the cheese may become rubbery. Monitor closely to achieve that perfect melty texture.
• Ignoring roll quality: Using subpar rolls can ruin your sliders. Opt for fresh, soft Hawaiian rolls for the best results.
• Forgetting toppings: Neglecting to add the poppy seeds or mustard glaze can lead to bland flavors. These toppings enhance both taste and presentation.
• Cutting unevenly: If you slice the rolls unevenly, some sliders may be overstuffed while others are sparse. Aim for uniform slices for consistent flavor in every bite.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Wrap individual sliders in foil or plastic wrap for easy grab-and-go options.

Freezing Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders

• Freeze unbaked sliders by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. They can last up to 2 months.
• For baked sliders, store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.

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: Heat individually on a microwave-safe plate for about 30-60 seconds, or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place sliders in a skillet over medium heat. Cover and cook for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While Havarti is delicious, feel free to substitute with cheeses like Swiss or cheddar based on your preference.

How do I customize my Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders?

You can add ingredients like caramelized onions or sliced pickles to enhance flavor. Experiment with different toppings!

What should I serve with Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders?

These sliders pair well with sides like potato chips, salad, or vegetable sticks for a complete meal.

Can these sliders be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them before baking.

Final Thoughts

These Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders are not only crowd-pleasers but also incredibly versatile. Customize them with your favorite ingredients and enjoy them as an appetizer, brunch item, or snack. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to bring joy and satisfaction to any gathering!