ULTIMATE HAM AND HAVARTI CHEESE SLIDERS

I remember when potlucks meant dry turkey sandwiches and questionable potato salad, but those days are long gone thanks to recipes like these crave-worthy Ham And Havarti Cheese Sliders; they’re the perfect way to impress a crowd and banish blandness forever. These little flavor bombs are ridiculously easy to make and will be the hit of any gathering, I promise you’ll be making them again and again!

Why You’ll Absolutely Adore These Sliders

Okay, friend, let’s get real for a second. We’re all busy. We need recipes that deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. That’s where these Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders come in. They’re:

• Quick and Easy: Seriously, from start to finish, you’re looking at maybe 30 minutes, tops.
• Crowd-Pleasing: I’ve never met anyone who doesn’t love these. Kids, adults, picky eaters – they all devour them.
• Versatile: Perfect for parties, game days, potlucks, or even a quick weeknight dinner.
• Customizable: Want to add a little spice? Go for it! More on that later.
• Seriously Delicious: The combination of salty ham, creamy Havarti, and a buttery, toasted bun is simply irresistible.

Think about it: warm, melty cheese, savory ham, and the perfect little bite-sized package. What’s not to love?

The Star Ingredients: What You’ll Need

Let’s break down the ingredient list. Don’t worry, it’s short and sweet!

• Slider Buns: I usually go for the classic Hawaiian sweet rolls, but any slider bun will work. Brioche buns are also a fantastic option for a richer flavor.
• Ham: Deli ham is the easiest, but you can also use leftover holiday ham. Just make sure it’s sliced thin. Smoked ham adds a depth of flavor.
• Havarti Cheese: This is the star of the show! Havarti is creamy, mild, and melts beautifully. You can find it in most grocery stores. If you can’t find Havarti, baby swiss is a decent substitute.
• Butter: Unsalted butter is best so you can control the saltiness of the sliders.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a touch of tang and helps balance the richness of the ham and cheese. Feel free to experiment with different mustards!
• Worcestershire Sauce: Just a dash of this adds a wonderful savory depth.
• Poppy Seeds (Optional): Adds a nice visual appeal and a slight nutty flavor.
• Dried Onion Flakes (Optional): Adds a subtle onion flavor.

A Note on Havarti: Havarti is known for its creamy, buttery texture and mild flavor. It melts like a dream, making it perfect for sliders. If you can’t find Havarti, Monterey Jack or Gouda are good substitutes, but Havarti is truly the best choice here.

Step-by-Step: Making the Magic Happen

Alright, let’s get cooking! Here’s the simple process for creating these addictive Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders:

1. Prep the Buns: Slice the entire slab of slider buns in half horizontally, separating the tops from the bottoms.
2. Layer on the Goodness: Place the bottom half of the buns in a baking dish (9×13 inch is perfect). Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the buns. Layer the ham evenly over the mustard, followed by the Havarti cheese.
3. Top it Off: Place the top half of the buns over the cheese.
4. Make the Butter Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, and dried onion flakes (if using).
5. Brush and Bake: Brush the butter mixture evenly over the tops of the slider buns. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Let the sliders cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Pro Tips and Tricks for Slider Perfection

Okay, now for the secrets that will take your Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders from good to AMAZING:

• Don’t Overbake: Overbaking will dry out the buns. Keep a close eye on them in the last few minutes of baking. You want them golden brown, not burnt.
• Use a Serrated Knife: A serrated knife will help you slice the sliders cleanly without squishing them.
• Melt the Butter Slowly: This will prevent the butter from splattering and burning.
• Don’t Skip the Foil: Covering the sliders with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking ensures that the cheese melts evenly and the buns stay soft.
• Experiment with Flavors: This recipe is a great base for experimentation. Try adding different cheeses, meats, or sauces to create your own unique version.
• Prep Ahead: You can assemble the sliders ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few minutes to the baking time.

Variations: Let’s Get Creative!

Want to put your own spin on these sliders? Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Spicy Sliders: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter sauce or use a spicy mustard.
• Italian Sliders: Use provolone cheese, add some sliced pepperoni to the ham, and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
• BBQ Sliders: Use BBQ sauce instead of Dijon mustard and add some shredded cheddar cheese.
• Turkey and Swiss Sliders: Substitute turkey for the ham and use Swiss cheese instead of Havarti.
• Add Some Greens: A thin layer of arugula or spinach under the ham can add a fresh, peppery bite.

Serving Suggestions: What to Serve with Your Sliders

These Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders are delicious on their own, but they’re even better when paired with the right sides. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:

• Potato Chips: A classic pairing for a reason!
• Coleslaw: The creamy, tangy coleslaw is a perfect complement to the rich sliders.
• Pasta Salad: A light and refreshing pasta salad is a great option for a summer gathering.
• Fruit Salad: A sweet and juicy fruit salad is a nice contrast to the savory sliders.
• Pickles: Dill pickles or sweet gherkins add a nice crunch and acidity.
• Soup: For a heartier meal, serve the sliders with a bowl of tomato soup or chicken noodle soup.

These sliders would be a fantastic addition to a potluck featuring other easy-to-share recipes, like Soft Pretzel Bites or even a hearty Farmhouse Hamburger & Potato Bake.

Storage and Reheating: Keeping Your Sliders Fresh

If you happen to have any leftover sliders (which is unlikely!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Storage: Store the leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the sliders in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the buns may get a little soggy.

Pro Tip: To prevent the buns from getting soggy when reheating, wrap the sliders in foil before placing them in the oven.

Troubleshooting: Common Slider Issues and Solutions

Even with the simplest recipes, things can sometimes go awry. Here are some common slider issues and how to fix them:

• Buns are Too Dry: Make sure you’re not overbaking the sliders. You can also brush the buns with a little extra melted butter before baking.
• Cheese Isn’t Melting: Make sure the oven is properly preheated. You can also cover the sliders with foil for a longer period of time to help the cheese melt.
• Sliders are Too Soggy: Don’t add too much mustard or other sauces. You can also bake the sliders on a wire rack to allow the air to circulate and prevent them from getting soggy.
• Sliders are Too Salty: Use unsalted butter and be mindful of the amount of salt in your ham. You can also add a touch of sweetness to balance the saltiness.

Consider serving these alongside another easy-to-prepare meal, such as Ranchy Sausage Potato Perfection, for a truly satisfying and simple dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Let’s tackle some common questions about making Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders:

• Can I make these ahead of time? Absolutely! Assemble the sliders, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Can I freeze these sliders? I don’t recommend freezing them, as the buns may become soggy.
• Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, but Havarti is the best choice for its creamy texture and mild flavor. Monterey Jack, Gouda, or baby Swiss are good substitutes.
• Can I use a different type of ham? Yes, any sliced ham will work. Smoked ham adds a nice depth of flavor.
• Can I add other toppings? Absolutely! Get creative with your toppings. Sliced tomatoes, lettuce, or pickles would all be delicious additions.

If you’re looking for another crowd-pleaser with a similar preparation style, try whipping up a batch of Homemade Stromboli Recipe for your next gathering.

The Ultimate Recipe for Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders

Yields: 12 sliders
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 (12 count) package slider buns (Hawaiian sweet rolls or brioche)
• 1 pound sliced ham
• 8 ounces Havarti cheese, sliced
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (optional)
• 1 tablespoon dried onion flakes (optional)

Equipment:

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Small saucepan
• Basting brush
• Serrated knife

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the entire slab of slider buns in half horizontally, separating the tops from the bottoms.
3. Place the bottom half of the buns in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the buns.
5. Layer the ham evenly over the mustard, followed by the Havarti cheese.
6. Place the top half of the buns over the cheese.
7. In a small saucepan, melt the butter. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, and dried onion flakes (if using).
8. Brush the butter mixture evenly over the tops of the slider buns.
9. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Let the sliders cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

• For spicy sliders, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter sauce or use a spicy mustard.
• To make ahead, assemble the sliders, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Don’t forget that these sliders are also great with Sheet Pan Sausage Perfection for a complete and delicious meal!

Conclusion: Your Slider Success Awaits!

There you have it, my friend! Everything you need to create the most amazing Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders you’ve ever tasted. Remember, cooking should be fun and stress-free. Don’t be afraid to experiment and put your own spin on this recipe. I know you’re going to rock it! Get ready to impress your friends and family with these irresistible little bites of heaven. Happy cooking!

ULTIMATE HAM AND HAVARTI CHEESE SLIDERS

These Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders are the perfect way to impress a crowd with minimal effort. Featuring salty ham, creamy Havarti cheese, and a buttery toasted bun, these flavor bombs are quick to make and versatile for any gathering.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 12

Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound sliced ham
• 8 ounces Havarti cheese, sliced
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds optional
• 1 tablespoon dried onion flakes optional

Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• small saucepan
• Basting brush
• Serrated knife
• measuring cups and spoons
• Oven
• foil

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the entire slab of slider buns in half horizontally, separating the tops from the bottoms.
3. Place the bottom half of the buns in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the buns.
5. Layer the ham evenly over the mustard, followed by the Havarti cheese.
6. Place the top half of the buns over the cheese.
7. In a small saucepan, melt the butter. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, and dried onion flakes (if using).
8. Brush the butter mixture evenly over the tops of the slider buns.
9. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Let the sliders cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

For spicy sliders, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter sauce or use a spicy mustard. To make ahead, assemble the sliders, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time. Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.