Have you ever found yourself staring at a pile of leftover ham wondering how to transform it into something extraordinary? The answer lies in these mouthwatering leftover ham and cheese sliders! Soft, buttery rolls filled with savory ham and melted cheese create a delightful combination that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
These sliders are not just a great way to use up leftovers; they also make for an ideal party snack or a quick weeknight meal. Picture this: freshly baked rolls emerging from the oven, golden brown with gooey cheese stretching as you pull them apart. Whether it’s game day or a cozy family dinner, these sliders will surely impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders
- Quick and Easy Preparation: These sliders can be thrown together in just 15 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
- Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out the ham for turkey or add your favorite cheeses to make this dish uniquely yours.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual lunch or a festive celebration, these sliders fit seamlessly into any menu.
Ingredients for Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Slider Rolls: Choose soft dinner rolls or Hawaiian rolls for their sweetness and fluffiness.
- Leftover Ham: Use any type of cooked ham you have on hand; shredded or sliced works wonderfully.
- Cheese Slices: Opt for Swiss or cheddar cheese for a rich flavor that complements the ham perfectly.
- Butter: Melted butter adds a delicious richness when brushed over the tops of the sliders before baking.
- Dijon Mustard: A hint of mustard enhances the flavor profile without overwhelming the dish.
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 your sliders bake evenly and become perfectly golden.
Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This will prevent sticking and help achieve that golden crust.
Assemble the Sliders
Slice the slider rolls in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves in the prepared baking dish. Layer with slices of ham followed by cheese. Add any additional toppings like pickles if desired.
Combine Butter and Mustard
In a small bowl, mix melted butter with Dijon mustard until well combined. Brush this mixture generously over the top of each assembled slider.
Bake Until Golden
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until golden brown.
Serve Warm
Remove from oven, slice into individual servings, and serve warm. For an extra touch, drizzle some honey over top before serving if desired.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh rolls will yield softer textures compared to stale ones.
- Melted Butter is Key: Brushing melted butter on top before baking adds flavor and helps achieve that golden color.
- Make Ahead Option: You can assemble these sliders ahead of time; just cover tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating.
With this guide on making leftover ham and cheese sliders, you’re all set to create a delightful dish that brings everyone together around the table!
Mistakes to avoid
- Using stale bread: Freshness is key when making leftover ham and cheese sliders. Stale or dry bread can lead to a disappointing texture, resulting in a less enjoyable bite. Always opt for soft, fresh rolls or buns that will hold up to the moisture of the fillings. This ensures your sliders remain fluffy and delicious.
- Overstuffing the sliders: While it may be tempting to pile on as much filling as possible, overstuffing can cause the sliders to fall apart during cooking. Aim for a balanced amount of leftover ham and cheese so that each slider maintains its shape. A well-proportioned slider will not only look better but also provide a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Neglecting seasoning: Even though you’re using leftover ingredients, seasoning is crucial for enhancing flavors. Don’t forget to add some herbs or spices to elevate your ham and cheese sliders. A sprinkle of garlic powder or Italian herbs can make a significant difference in taste, ensuring your dish is exciting and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
This Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders recipe is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the savory flavors of the sliders. The freshness of the vegetables balances the richness of the cheese and ham.
- Pickles: Crunchy dill pickles add a delightful contrast to the sliders. Their acidity cuts through the richness, making each bite more enjoyable.
- Chips: Serve your sliders with a side of your favorite potato chips or tortilla chips for that satisfying crunch. You can even dip them in salsa or guacamole for an extra kick.
FAQs
Can I use different types of bread for Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders?
Absolutely! While slider buns are popular, you can experiment with various breads. Brioche buns add sweetness, while whole grain offers a hearty texture. You could also try using pretzel buns for a unique twist. Just ensure the bread can hold up to the filling without becoming soggy.
How do I store leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders?
To store leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for about three days. Reheat them in the oven at a low temperature to restore their crispiness before serving. Avoid microwaving as it may make the buns soggy.
Can I freeze leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders?
Yes, you can freeze these delicious sliders! Wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What toppings work well on Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders?
You can enhance your Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders with various toppings. Consider adding sliced tomatoes, fresh spinach, or avocado for added flavor and nutrition. Spicy mustard or aioli can also elevate your sliders, providing an exciting kick that complements the ham.
Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders
Leftover ham and cheese sliders are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for transforming your holiday leftovers into a scrumptious meal. These sliders feature soft, buttery rolls packed with savory ham and melted cheese, creating a deliciously satisfying bite that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 sliders
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- Slider rolls (Hawaiian or dinner rolls)
- Leftover cooked ham (shredded or sliced)
- Cheese slices (Swiss or cheddar)
- Melted butter
- Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Slice slider rolls in half and place the bottom halves in the dish. Layer with ham and cheese.
- Mix melted butter with Dijon mustard; brush on top of assembled sliders.
- Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Use fresh rolls for optimal texture.
- For added flavor, incorporate herbs or spices like garlic powder.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders are a fantastic way to utilize leftover ingredients while creating a satisfying meal. This recipe is easy to customize with different types of bread and toppings, making it suitable for any palate. Whether you serve it with a fresh salad or crunchy pickles, this dish promises to please family and friends alike. Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional sides like chips or dips to enhance your dining experience further. Enjoy this delightful treat whenever you’re looking for a quick yet delicious meal option!
