Zesty Honey Mustard Ham Sliders

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with the ultimate crowd-pleaser: Honey Mustard Ham Sliders! In just over half an hour, with a handful of simple ingredients, you can effortlessly create these incredibly cheesy, savory, and irresistibly buttery mini sandwiches. Perfect for any gathering, a quick weeknight dinner, or a delightful lunch, these sliders are guaranteed to be a hit.

Irresistible Honey Mustard Ham Sliders: Your Ultimate Recipe for Easy Entertaining

There’s something truly magical about a warm, cheesy slider, and these Honey Mustard Ham Sliders take that comfort food to a whole new level. Imagine tender ham, perfectly melted provolone cheese, and a homemade sweet-tangy honey mustard sauce, all nestled within soft Hawaiian rolls and crowned with a savory, buttery glaze. This recipe isn’t just easy; it’s a revelation for anyone looking to whip up a delicious meal or appetizer in record time. Whether you’re hosting a party, contributing to a potluck, or simply craving an effortless yet satisfying lunch or dinner, these bite-sized wonders fit the bill perfectly.

Beyond their incredible flavor, these sliders shine in their versatility. They’re an excellent way to transform leftover holiday ham into an exciting new dish, minimizing food waste while maximizing enjoyment. The combination of sweet and savory elements creates a harmonious balance that appeals to nearly everyone, from picky eaters to gourmet enthusiasts. Plus, the prep is so straightforward, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying delicious food and good company. Get ready to add this fantastic recipe to your regular rotation!

Three golden brown Honey Mustard Ham Sliders stacked on a plate, showing melted cheese and the buttery glaze.
Golden, Cheesy Honey Mustard Ham Sliders – perfect for any occasion!

Why Honey Mustard Ham Sliders Are Your New Go-To Recipe

These aren’t just any ham sandwiches; they are a culinary shortcut to happiness. Here’s why these sliders will quickly become a cherished recipe in your repertoire:

  • Unbelievably Easy: With minimal prep and a quick baking time, even novice cooks can achieve perfect results. No complicated techniques or obscure ingredients required.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The classic combination of sweet honey, tangy Dijon mustard, savory ham, and gooey cheese is universally loved. The buttery, garlicky top crust adds an extra layer of deliciousness that makes them irresistible.
  • Versatile for Any Occasion: From game day gatherings to holiday brunches, casual family dinners to elegant appetizers, these sliders are appropriate for virtually any event. Their bite-sized nature makes them ideal for snacking or as part of a larger spread.
  • Perfect for Leftovers: Have some leftover holiday ham? This recipe is a fantastic way to repurpose it into something fresh and exciting, giving your ham a delicious second life.
  • Customizable: Easily adapt the cheese, ham quantity, or even add extra toppings to suit your family’s preferences.

In essence, these Honey Mustard Ham Sliders offer maximum flavor with minimal effort, making them a true culinary gem for busy households and enthusiastic entertainers alike.

A glass baking dish filled with prepared Honey Mustard Ham Sliders, ready to be served.
A delicious batch of Honey Mustard Ham Sliders, warm and ready to enjoy.

Essential Ingredients for Flavorful Sliders

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the perfect synergy of its components. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the iconic flavor and texture of these Honey Mustard Ham Sliders. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each element is important:

Gather Your Simple Ingredients:

  • Hawaiian Sweet Rolls: These soft, slightly sweet rolls are the cornerstone of a great slider. Their inherent sweetness beautifully complements the savory ham and tangy honey mustard. While the classic sweet version is preferred for this recipe, many brands now offer a butter-flavored Hawaiian roll which can be used if you desire a less sweet, more savory profile. The soft texture allows them to absorb the buttery glaze, creating an incredibly tender bite.
  • Deli Ham: Thinly sliced deli ham is ideal for these sliders, providing a delicate texture that melts perfectly with the cheese. You can opt for your favorite variety – honey ham, smoked ham, or even black forest ham all work wonderfully. This recipe is also a fantastic opportunity to use up any leftover cooked ham you might have from a holiday feast, ensuring no delicious ham goes to waste. The quantity is flexible; adjust it to your personal preference for a lighter or heartier slider.
  • Provolone Cheese: Provolone is chosen for its mild, slightly nutty flavor and, most importantly, its excellent melting capabilities. It creates a smooth, gooey layer that binds the ham and rolls together beautifully. However, don’t hesitate to experiment! Cheddar, American, Swiss, Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a spicier pepper jack are all excellent alternatives that will melt well and add their unique character to the sliders.
  • Homemade Honey Mustard Sauce: This easy-to-make sauce is the heart of the sliders. It requires just three ingredients:
    • Mayonnaise: Provides a creamy base and richness. Use your favorite high-quality brand for the best flavor.
    • Honey: Adds natural sweetness that balances the mustard’s tang and enhances the ham’s flavor.
    • Dijon Mustard: Delivers that signature pungent and slightly spicy kick that defines honey mustard. For a milder flavor, you could use yellow mustard, but Dijon provides a more sophisticated depth. This homemade sauce is incredibly simple, and you might even want to whip up a little extra to serve on the side for dipping!
  • Melted Butter Glaze: This simple yet powerful glaze transforms the plain slider buns into golden, flavorful masterpieces. It consists of:
    • Salted Butter: Real butter is essential here for its rich, unmistakable flavor. Margarine won’t offer the same depth. Salted butter is generally preferred, but unsalted will work too; no additional salt is typically needed.
    • Minced Dried Onion: Crucial for adding a savory, aromatic depth without the harshness or texture of fresh onion, which can be too strong when baked. If you only have onion powder, use about 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste) as it is much more concentrated.
    • Poppy Seeds (Optional): While they don’t contribute significantly to the taste, poppy seeds add a classic visual appeal and a very subtle textural crunch to the top of the buns, making the sliders look even more enticing.

Each component contributes to the overall success of these sliders, ensuring every bite is packed with delicious, well-balanced flavor.

All the ingredients for Honey Mustard Ham Sliders laid out: Hawaiian rolls, mayonnaise, deli ham, provolone cheese, honey, Dijon mustard, butter, dried onion, poppy seeds, and fresh parsley.
All the simple ingredients you’ll need for these irresistible sliders.

Crafting Your Perfect Honey Mustard Ham Sliders: Step-by-Step Instructions

Making these delightful sliders is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Follow these simple steps to create a batch of perfectly cheesy, warm, and flavorful Honey Mustard Ham Sliders:

  1. Prepare Your Baking Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to ensure your sliders don’t stick and can be easily removed.
  2. Slice the Rolls: Carefully slice the entire block of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally using a serrated knife, keeping them connected as much as possible. Place the bottom half of the rolls evenly into the prepared baking dish. This creates a solid base for your sliders.
  3. The bottom halves of all the Hawaiian Rolls in a baking dish.
  4. Mix the Honey Mustard Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, honey, and Dijon mustard. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well combined. This is your delicious homemade honey mustard sauce.
  5. A mixture of mayonnaise, honey and mustard spread on the Hawaiian Rolls.
  6. Assemble the Layers: Spread an even and generous layer of the freshly mixed honey mustard sauce over the bottom half of the Hawaiian rolls in the baking dish, ensuring every corner is covered. Next, arrange the thinly sliced deli ham evenly over the honey mustard layer. Follow this with a layer of provolone cheese slices, making sure each slider is generously covered for maximum cheesiness.
  7. Ham and provolone cheese on top of a mustard mixture on Hawaiian Rolls.
  8. Add Top Buns: Gently place the top half of the Hawaiian rolls back over the ham and cheese layers, completing the sandwich assembly.
  9. Slider rolls on top of sandwiches in a baking dish.
  10. Prepare the Buttery Glaze: In a separate small bowl, melt the salted butter. Stir in the minced dried onion and optional poppy seeds until they are thoroughly combined with the melted butter.
  11. Brush the Glaze: Generously brush this savory butter mixture over the tops of all the slider buns. This glaze is key to achieving that golden, slightly crisp, and incredibly flavorful crust.
  12. Herbed butter on top of Hawaiian Roll sandwiches.
  13. Bake to Perfection: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the sliders are thoroughly warmed through, the ham is hot, and the cheese is beautifully melted and gooey.
  14. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the foil. If desired, sprinkle the tops of the warm sliders with some fresh minced parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and watch them disappear!
  15. Three Honey Mustard Ham Sliders in a pile on a plate.
Collage showing the steps: Hawaiian roll bottoms in a baking dish, honey mustard spread, and layers of ham and provolone cheese.
Building the delicious layers of your Honey Mustard Ham Sliders.
Collage showing the final assembly: top buns placed on sliders, and the savory butter mixture brushed over them.
The final touches: adding the top buns and brushing with the irresistible butter glaze.

Tips & Tricks for the Best Ham Sliders

To ensure your Honey Mustard Ham Sliders turn out perfectly every time, consider these additional tips and customization ideas:

  • Don’t Skimp on the Glaze: The buttery glaze is what gives these sliders their signature golden-brown top and incredible flavor. Be generous when brushing it over the buns for the best results.
  • Even Spreading is Key: Ensure both the honey mustard sauce and the ham and cheese layers are spread evenly across the rolls. This guarantees a balanced flavor in every bite and prevents any dry spots.
  • Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on your sliders. While you want the cheese melted and the ham warmed through, overbaking can dry out the rolls. The foil helps keep moisture in, but check at the 15-minute mark.
  • Custom Cheese Blends: Don’t limit yourself to just one type of cheese! A blend of provolone and Swiss, or cheddar and Monterey Jack, can add interesting depth and flavor complexity.
  • Add a Touch of Spice: For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can be added to the butter glaze or even mixed into the honey mustard sauce.
  • Pre-Assemble Ahead of Time: You can assemble these sliders up to a few hours in advance, cover them with foil, and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply pop them into the preheated oven, possibly adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if they are coming directly from the fridge.
  • Serving Suggestions: These sliders are fantastic on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a simple green salad, a bowl of tomato soup, potato chips, or a side of coleslaw for a complete meal. For parties, arrange them artfully on a platter and watch them disappear!

Frequently Asked Questions About Ham Sliders

Here are answers to some common questions about making and enjoying these Honey Mustard Ham Sliders, ensuring you have all the information you need for a successful culinary adventure.

Can I use a different type of cheese for these sliders?

Absolutely! While provolone offers a classic pairing with ham and melts beautifully, these sliders are incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses like sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor, mild American for a classic deli feel, creamy mozzarella for an extra stretchy melt, nutty gouda or gruyere for a sophisticated touch, or even a spicy pepper jack if you like a little kick. The key is to choose a cheese that melts well and complements the savory ham and sweet-tangy honey mustard sauce. You can even use a blend of two different cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.

What other ingredients can I add to my ham sliders?

The possibilities for customizing these sliders are endless! Beyond the core ham and cheese, you can add thin slices of cooked turkey or chicken for a poultry twist, creating a “club-style” slider. For fresh toppings, consider thinly sliced tomatoes, which hold up well to the baking process and add a touch of acidity and freshness. You’ll want to avoid delicate greens like lettuce or spinach, as they tend to wilt and become soggy in the oven. For extra flavor, consider a sprinkle of garlic powder in your butter glaze, or even a dash of Worcestershire sauce for an umami boost. Caramelized onions, thinly sliced pickles (dill or sweet), or even a layer of crispy bacon can also be delightful additions, added before baking.

Do I have to use a specific amount of ham?

Not at all! This is truly a forgiving recipe when it comes to the amount of ham. The suggested one pound of thinly sliced deli ham is a guideline, providing a generous filling, but you can easily adjust it to your personal preference or what you have on hand, especially if you’re utilizing leftover holiday ham. Feel free to use a little less for lighter sliders or pile on more for a heartier sandwich. If you opt for a significantly thicker layer of ham, you might want to extend the baking time by a few minutes to ensure all the ham is thoroughly warmed through and the cheese is perfectly melted and gooey throughout the layers.

Are Hawaiian rolls essential for this recipe?

While Hawaiian sweet rolls are highly recommended due to their signature sweetness and soft, fluffy texture that beautifully complements the honey mustard and ham, they are not strictly mandatory. Any soft slider bun or dinner roll will work as a substitute. If you prefer a less sweet profile, some brands offer a butter-flavored Hawaiian roll, or you could opt for a plain brioche bun or a soft potato roll. The inherent sweetness of the Hawaiian rolls creates a delightful balance with the savory ham and tangy mustard, so if you’re choosing an alternative, consider how it will impact the overall flavor profile of your sliders.

How should I store leftover Honey Mustard Ham Sliders?

Leftover Honey Mustard Ham Sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat them, you can place them back in a preheated oven (around 300°F/150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is re-melted and bubbly. Covering them loosely with foil during reheating can help prevent the buns from drying out and ensure even heating. You can also warm individual sliders in a microwave for a minute or so, though the buns might not retain their crispness as well compared to oven reheating.

A small pyramid stack of freshly baked Honey Mustard Ham Sliders on a serving plate, garnished with parsley.
Serve these warm and enjoy the perfect bite-sized sandwich experience!

The Ultimate Honey Mustard Ham Sliders Recipe Card

A few serving plates with a small pile of Honey Mustard Ham Sliders.

Honey Mustard Ham Sliders

With just a few simple ingredients and a little over half an hour, you can effortlessly craft the perfect Honey Mustard Ham Sliders. These mini sandwiches are loaded with melted cheese and boast an irresistible buttery glaze, making them an instant crowd-pleaser!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 6 servings
Author: Brandie Skibinski

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Ingredients

  • 16 ounce package Hawaiian rolls (12 rolls per package)
  • 1 pound deli ham, thinly sliced (use as little or as much ham as you prefer)
  • 6 slices provolone cheese
  • 3 Tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 2 Tablespoons honey
  • 2 Tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 4 Tablespoons salted butter, melted
  • 2 teaspoons minced dried onion
  • 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
  • ½ Tablespoon fresh minced (or dried) parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Carefully slice the entire block of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the rolls connected. Place the bottom half of the rolls evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, honey, and Dijon mustard. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Spread this homemade honey mustard sauce evenly over the bottom layer of the Hawaiian rolls, ensuring full coverage.
  4. Arrange the thinly sliced deli ham in an even layer over the honey mustard sauce. Follow this with a layer of provolone cheese slices, ensuring each slider is generously covered.
  5. Gently place the top half of the Hawaiian rolls back over the ham and cheese layers, completing your sliders.
  6. In another small bowl, melt the salted butter. Stir in the minced dried onion and poppy seeds until thoroughly combined. Generously brush this savory butter mixture over the tops of all the slider buns. This glaze will create a beautiful golden crust and infuse extra flavor.
  7. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the sliders are heated through, the ham is warm, and the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly.
  8. Once baked, remove the foil and, if desired, garnish the tops of the warm sliders with fresh minced parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Please refer to the “Frequently Asked Questions” and “Tips & Tricks” sections above for other substitutions, answers to common questions, and additional guidance to make your sliders perfect every time.

Course: Dinner, Lunch

Cuisine: American

Nutrition Information (Estimated Per Serving)

Calories: 638kcal |
Carbohydrates: 48g |
Protein: 30g |
Fat: 36g |
Sodium: 1423mg |
Fiber: 0.5g |
Sugar: 17g

Nutritional Disclaimer

“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used and specific portion sizes.

Did you make this delicious recipe? We’d love to see it! Share your culinary creation on Instagram by tagging @thecountrycook and using the hashtag #thecountrycook!

More Irresistible Slider Recipes to Try

If you’ve fallen in love with the ease and deliciousness of these Honey Mustard Ham Sliders, you’re in luck! There’s a whole world of slider recipes to explore. Here are some other fantastic variations to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests:

  • Italian Grinder Sliders
  • French Dip Sliders
  • Classic Ham and Cheese Sliders
  • Reuben Sliders
  • Hearty Meatball Sliders
  • Monte Cristo Sliders
  • Big Mac Sliders
  • Zesty Buffalo Chicken Sliders
  • Garlic Bread Italian Sliders
  • Pizza Pull-Apart Sliders
  • Sausage, Egg and Cheese Breakfast Sliders
  • Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
  • Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders
  • Savory Roast Beef Sliders

These Honey Mustard Ham Sliders truly embody the joy of simple, delicious cooking. They’re quick to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe offers a foolproof path to a satisfying meal that everyone will adore. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake up a batch of these unforgettable sliders. Your taste buds, and your guests, will thank you!