Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe

Sink your teeth into the ultimate comfort food with these Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders, a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s as easy to make as it is to devour. Imagine soft, golden buns cradling layers of savory deli ham and gooey provolone, topped off with a kiss of barbecue sauce for tang and a swipe of creamy mayo for richness. This mouthwatering dish is perfect for game days, quick weeknight dinners, or whenever you crave something undeniably satisfying. With just a handful of pantry staples, you’ll create sliders that disappear in minutes and leave everyone raving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in these Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders plays a starring role, making teamwork the secret behind every melty, flavor-packed bite. Gather these simple staples and get ready for sandwich magic: the contrast of tangy barbecue, creamy mayo, hearty ham, and gooey cheese is truly unbeatable!

• Deli Ham: Sliced thin for effortless piling and tender texture in each slider.
• Small Sandwich Buns: Choose soft, sturdy rolls to hold up under all that melty goodness.
• Provolone Cheese: Thick slices lend a glorious melt and a mildly nutty depth of flavor.
• Barbecue Sauce: Just a couple spoonfuls add bold tang and subtle sweetness—don’t skip this finishing touch!
• Mayonnaise: Spread on top buns for creamy richness that balances the savory ingredients beautifully.

How to Make Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit—this ensures the cheese melts evenly and the buns get just the right amount of warmth. Line up your ingredients and grab a large baking dish, so everything is ready and waiting when you start assembling.

Step 2: Slice and Arrange the Buns

Gently slice each sandwich bun in half and lay them flat, open-faced, in your baking dish. The open arrangement will make layering the mayo, cheese, ham, and barbecue sauce an absolute breeze, plus it allows for even toasting.

Step 3: Add Mayonnaise and Cheese

Now, spread a thin, even layer of mayonnaise on the inside of each top bun. Immediately follow by laying a generous slice of provolone cheese over the mayo, ensuring edge-to-edge coverage for maximum melt and flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Pile on the Ham and Barbecue Sauce

Next, heap the thin-sliced deli ham onto each bottom bun—as much as you like for that luscious, meaty center. Drizzle a spoonful of barbecue sauce right on top of the ham to add that lip-smacking sweetness and tang that takes these Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders over the top.

Step 5: Heat Until the Cheese Begins to Melt

With all the fillings in place and tops off, slide the entire pan into your preheated oven and let it warm until the cheese on the top buns starts to look soft and gooey—typically about 5 minutes, but keep an eye out so nothing over-bakes.

Step 6: Assemble and Finish Baking

Carefully place the cheesy top buns over the saucy ham, pressing gently so everything melds together. Return the dish to the oven and bake just until the cheese is fully melted and each slider is hot throughout. The buns should be soft, but the centers gloriously molten.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool slightly before savoring. They hold together perfectly, making them easy to pick up, pull apart, and pass around the table. Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders are now ready to be the star of the show!

How to Serve Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like chopped parsley or chives, brightens both the flavor and appearance of these sliders. For an extra savory kick, try dusting the tops with everything bagel seasoning before the final bake. You can also add a touch of crunch with a few sliced pickles tucked inside each sandwich right before serving.

Side Dishes

Pair your Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders with crispy potato chips, tangy coleslaw, or a quick green salad for a well-rounded meal. They’re also right at home beside sweet baked beans, roasted veggies, or a warming bowl of tomato soup—the kind of spread that keeps folks gathered around the table.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your sliders on a large board with small ramekins of extra barbecue sauce and mustard for dipping. For parties, pop colorful toothpicks into each one as grab-and-go treats. You can also halve the sliders and skewer them as appetizer bites for a fun twist on the Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool your leftover Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, they’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to three days—just be sure to reheat gently to maintain their melty center and soft bun.

Freezing

These sliders freeze surprisingly well! Wrap each slider individually in foil or plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and you’ll be ready for a snack attack or a quick lunch whenever you please.

Reheating

For the best results, pop leftover or thawed Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders into a 325-degree oven (still wrapped in foil) for about 10-15 minutes, or until hot throughout. A few seconds in the microwave works in a pinch, but the oven keeps the buns from going soggy and returns the filling to its dreamy, gooey state.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese for these sliders?

Absolutely! While provolone offers that perfect melt and mild nuttiness, Swiss, cheddar, or even pepper jack will bring their own delicious twist to your Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders.

What type of buns work best?

Soft, pillow-like sandwich buns are ideal since they soak up the flavors and stay tender in the oven. Hawaiian rolls also make a slightly sweeter version—just keep an eye on them as they can brown quicker.

Can I make these sliders ahead for a party?

Yes! Assemble everything in your baking dish and cover tightly. Keep refrigerated until you’re ready to bake. They taste just as delicious when baked fresh and come out piping hot for your guests.

Are there gluten-free alternatives?

Definitely! Look for your favorite gluten-free small buns or rolls and ensure your barbecue sauce is certified gluten-free. The fill-ins are naturally gluten-free, making these Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders easy to adapt.

How can I spice up the sliders a bit?

Add a smear of spicy mustard with the mayonnaise, toss in some thinly sliced jalapeños under the cheese, or swap in a smoky chipotle barbecue sauce to bring extra zip and heat to your sliders.

Final Thoughts

Few dishes deliver so much joy with so little fuss as Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders. Whether you’re making them for a crowd, a cozy family night, or just because, these sandwiches are guaranteed to win hearts and empty plates. Go ahead—treat yourself and your crew to a pan of these irresistibly melty sliders. You’ll be hooked from the very first bite!

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