These ham and cranberry sliders are tasty little sandwiches that are perfect for any gathering. They feature savory ham paired with sweet cranberry sauce on soft rolls. Yum!
They’re super easy to make, and I love how they disappear quickly at parties. Just layer the ham and cranberry, bake them a bit, and you’re all set for happy taste buds! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Rolls: I love using Hawaiian rolls for their softness and hint of sweetness. If you can’t find them, any soft dinner rolls will work too. Just ensure they’re fresh for the best texture!
Deli Ham: You can use any type of ham you prefer. Honey-baked ham gives a nice sweetness, while smoked or black forest ham adds a deeper flavor. Turkey or chicken deli meat works if you want a lighter option.
Swiss Cheese: Swiss is my go-to for this recipe due to its creamy texture. However, you can substitute it with cheddar or provolone for a different taste.
Cranberry Sauce: Use homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce based on your preference. If you want a zing, try adding a bit of orange zest to your sauce!
Poppy Seeds: If you don’t have poppy seeds, sesame seeds or everything seasoning can add a nice touch. They are optional but provide a lovely finishing crunch.
How Do I Achieve the Perfectly Brushed Slider Topping?
The slider topping adds flavor and helps them brown beautifully. Here’s how to do it right:
- Combine melted butter, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and any optional seasonings you like in a small bowl.
- Use a brush to coat the top of the rolls evenly with the butter mixture, being generous for the best flavor.
- For a golden finish, remove the foil halfway through baking to let the tops crisp up!
Taking these steps ensures that your sliders turn out deliciously golden and packed with flavor!
Ham and Cranberry Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Sliders:
- 12 slider sandwich rolls (soft dinner rolls like Hawaiian rolls work well)
- 12 slices deli ham
- 6 slices Swiss cheese, halved
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
For The Topping:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish, optional)
Time Estimate:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to bake, so you’ll be enjoying these tasty sliders in about 30 minutes. They are quick and easy, perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it will be ready when you’re set to bake your delicious sliders!
2. Prepare the Rolls:
Take the slider rolls and slice them horizontally to create a top and bottom layer. Place the bottom halves snugly in a baking dish or on a rimmed baking sheet. Make sure they fit closely together to hold all the tasty fillings.
3. Add Ham and Cranberry:
Layer the deli ham evenly over the bottom rolls. Spoon the cranberry sauce generously on top of the ham, spreading it out with a spoon or spatula to cover it evenly.
4. Cheese It Up:
Next, lay the half slices of Swiss cheese over the cranberry sauce. This will add that creamy texture which pairs wonderfully with the sweet and savory flavors.
5. Close the Sliders:
Now, place the top halves of the rolls onto the sandwiches to form nice little sliders. Ready for the oven!
6. Mix the Topping:
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder until well combined. This will give the sliders a delicious buttery flavor!
7. Brush It On:
Brush the butter mixture generously over the tops of the rolls. For a little extra flair, you can sprinkle poppy seeds and chopped parsley evenly over the buttered tops.
8. Bake the Sliders:
Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from browning too quickly. Bake for about 15 minutes, until the cheese melts and the sliders are heated through.
9. Final Browning:
After 15 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes to let the tops brown slightly. You’ll know they’re ready when the rolls are golden and tempting!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the sliders from the oven, garnish with fresh thyme if you’d like, and serve them warm. Enjoy the delightful mix of flavors as they disappear quickly at your table!
These ham and cranberry sliders are the perfect fusion of savory, sweet, and buttery goodness, making them a hit for sharing with friends and family!
Can I Use Leftover Holiday Ham for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover holiday ham works perfectly in these sliders. Just slice it thinly for easy layering, and you’ll have a delicious way to use up those leftovers!
How Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the sliders up to the baking point and cover them tightly with plastic wrap. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through for the best texture.
Can I Substitute the Cheese?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of Swiss cheese, feel free to use cheddar, provolone, or even gouda for a different flavor. Just make sure it melts well!