Have you ever found yourself staring at a mountain of leftover ham after a holiday meal? The thought of wasting that delicious goodness is unbearable! With this easy recipe for Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders, you’ll transform your leftovers into a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family or guests. Imagine soft, buttery rolls filled with savory ham and melted cheese, baked to golden perfection.
These sliders are not just a feast for the eyes; they pack a punch of flavor with every bite. The combination of sweet Hawaiian rolls, savory ham, and ooey-gooey cheese creates an unforgettable experience that’s perfect for game nights, casual gatherings, or even a cozy dinner at home. Plus, they take only about 30 minutes to make from start to finish! So next time you have leftover ham in your fridge, remember this fantastic recipe that promises delightful bites everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders
- Quick and Easy to Prepare: These sliders can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can customize these sliders with your favorite cheeses and condiments or even switch out the ham for turkey or chicken.
- Perfect for Entertaining: Serve these sliders at parties or family get-togethers; they are always a hit with both kids and adults!
Ingredients for Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Hawaiian Rolls: These sweet rolls provide the perfect base for your sliders; their softness complements the fillings beautifully.
- Leftover Ham: Use any type of cooked ham you have on hand—smoked or honey-glazed works wonderfully.
- Cheese Slices: Swiss or cheddar cheese melts perfectly in these sliders; choose your favorite type or even mix varieties.
- Butter: Melted butter brushed on top adds a rich flavor and helps achieve that golden-brown crust.
- Poppy Seeds (optional): A sprinkle of poppy seeds on top adds a nice crunch and subtle flavor contrast.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your sliders will bake evenly while achieving that desired golden color.
Prepare the Baking Dish
Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This will help prevent the sliders from sticking once they’re baked.
Assemble the Sliders
Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally without separating them completely. Layer slices of leftover ham followed by cheese on the bottom half of the rolls.
Add Toppings
Place the top half of the rolls back on and brush melted butter generously over them. Sprinkle poppy seeds if desired.
Bake Until Golden
Transfer the assembled sliders into the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and golden brown.
Serve Hot
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing into individual portions. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Use Fresh Rolls: For optimal flavor and texture, use fresh Hawaiian rolls instead of stale ones.
- Add Veggies: Consider adding sliced bell peppers or jalapeños for an extra kick of flavor.
- Make Ahead Option: You can assemble these sliders ahead of time; just cover tightly with foil until ready to bake.
Mistakes to avoid
- Using stale bread: Freshness matters when making Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders. Stale or dry bread can lead to a disappointing texture that detracts from the overall experience. Opt for soft, fresh slider buns that will hold up well to the fillings and maintain their moisture during baking. This step ensures each bite is flavorful and satisfying, allowing the ham and cheese to shine through without the distraction of hard, unappetizing bread.
- Overstuffing your sliders: While it might be tempting to pile on those leftover ham and cheese ingredients, overstuffing can cause your sliders to fall apart. Instead, aim for a balanced filling that allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the slider intact. A good rule of thumb is to use just enough filling so that every bite is a delicious mix without overwhelming the bun’s structure.
- Forgetting to season: Seasoning is key when preparing Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders. Many assume that leftover ingredients are already flavorful enough, but this isn’t always true. A dash of salt, pepper, or even a sprinkle of garlic powder can elevate your sliders significantly. Take the time to taste your mixture before assembling; this small step can make a world of difference in enhancing the overall flavor profile of your dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the sliders. The tanginess of the dressing complements the savory ham and cheese perfectly.
- Potato Chips: Serve with crispy potato chips for a satisfying crunch. The saltiness of the chips enhances the overall taste and makes for a delightful snack.
- Pickles: Sliced pickles provide a tangy bite that balances the richness of the sliders. Their acidity cuts through the heaviness, making each bite more enjoyable.
FAQs
How do I store leftover ham and cheese sliders?
To store leftover ham and cheese sliders, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Place them in an airtight container in your refrigerator. They will keep well for up to three days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, ensuring the cheese melts deliciously.
Can I freeze leftover ham and cheese sliders?
Yes, you can freeze leftover ham and cheese sliders. Wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This method helps prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned earlier. They can be stored frozen for up to two months.
What types of bread work best for these sliders?
For Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders, soft dinner rolls or Hawaiian rolls are excellent choices due to their sweetness and fluffiness. These breads hold up well when baking and absorb flavors without becoming soggy. You could also experiment with sourdough or whole grain bread if you prefer a different texture or taste.
Can I customize my leftover ham and cheese sliders?
Absolutely! One of the best features of leftover ham and cheese sliders is their versatility. You can swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Consider adding different cheeses like Swiss or cheddar, or incorporate vegetables such as sautéed onions or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 sliders 1x
Description
Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders are a delectable way to breathe new life into holiday leftovers. This simple recipe features soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls generously filled with tender slices of ham and gooey melted cheese, all baked to a beautiful golden brown. In just 30 minutes, you can create sliders that are perfect for game nights, casual gatherings, or quick weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize them with your favorite cheeses or add some fresh veggies for an extra twist. Serve these sliders warm with your choice of dipping sauces or alongside crunchy sides like coleslaw or potato chips. Enjoy every savory bite while minimizing food waste!
Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian rolls
- 2 cups leftover ham, sliced
- 8 slices Swiss or cheddar cheese
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- Poppy seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally and layer ham and cheese on the bottom half.
- Place the top half back on, brush generously with melted butter, and sprinkle poppy seeds if desired.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through and golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before slicing and serve warm.
Notes
- Use fresh rolls for the best texture.
- Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for added spice.
- For make-ahead options, assemble sliders up to a day in advance and refrigerate before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider (90g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders are a delightful way to utilize any extra holiday ham while creating a tasty treat for your family. With simple ingredients like rolls, sliced ham, and gooey cheese, this easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Pairing these sliders with sides like coleslaw or potato chips enhances their flavor profile while providing additional texture. Whether you choose to store them for later or enjoy them fresh from the oven, these sliders are sure to please anyone at your table. Remember, feel free to customize according to your taste buds; it’s all about enjoying those leftovers creatively!
