Name: Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 Hawaiian rolls; 2 cups leftover ham, sliced; 8 slices Swiss or cheddar cheese; 4 tablespoons butter, melted; Poppy seeds for topping (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 4.1 from 22 reviews

If you’re searching for a cozy, crowd-pleasing snack that transforms your leftover meats into something truly special, this Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe is exactly what you need. Soft Hawaiian rolls loaded with savory ham and melty Swiss or cheddar cheese, all brushed with buttery goodness and baked until golden, create an irresistible treat that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for casual gatherings, game days, or just an easy family dinner, these sliders make every leftover slice of ham shine in a fresh, delicious way.

Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with this recipe is a breeze because every ingredient here is simple but packs a flavorful punch. Each one plays a crucial role: the Hawaiian rolls bring that perfect soft and slightly sweet base, the ham adds savory depth, cheese creates a luscious melt, and the buttery drizzle ties everything together with a golden finish.

12 Hawaiian rolls: These fluffy, slightly sweet rolls are the perfect slider base that keeps things soft and inviting.
2 cups leftover ham, sliced: Utilizing your leftover ham not only saves food but infuses the sliders with a rich, smoky flavor.
8 slices Swiss or cheddar cheese: Choose your favorite to add creamy, gooey goodness that melts beautifully between the rolls.
4 tablespoons butter, melted: This butter will be brushed on top, ensuring a golden crust and adding mouthwatering richness.
Poppy seeds for topping (optional): A little sprinkle adds a lovely texture and an eye-catching finish, though you can skip if you prefer.

How to Make Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish

Kick things off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the perfect heat to get those sliders warm and the cheese melting just right. While the oven warms, grab your baking dish and generously spray it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent any sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Slice the Rolls and Layer the Goodness

Carefully slice your Hawaiian rolls horizontally—keep the hinge intact if you prefer easier serving next time. Layer the bottom halves with your sliced leftover ham, then top evenly with cheese. This careful layering allows the cheese to melt into the savory ham, creating that irresistible ooey-gooey effect.

Step 3: Assemble and Butter Up the Sliders

Place the top halves of the rolls back onto the stacked ham and cheese. Now comes the magic touch: brush the tops generously with melted butter. This little step will bring that beautiful golden crust everyone loves. If you’re feeling fancy or nostalgic, sprinkle poppy seeds over the buttered tops for a classic finish.

Step 4: Bake Until Perfectly Golden

Pop your assembled sliders into the oven and let them bake for about 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll want to watch for the cheese to get all melty and for the tops to turn a gorgeous golden brown. The warmth and aroma by this point will have your whole kitchen humming with anticipation.

Step 5: Cool Slightly and Serve Warm

Once out of the oven, let your sliders rest for a few minutes. This cooling step helps everything set just enough so that when you cut through the soft rolls, gooey cheese, and tender ham, your sliders hold their shape—but are still delightfully warm for eating.

How to Serve Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe

Garnishes

While these sliders shine on their own, a few simple garnishes can elevate the experience. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley brightens the look and adds a subtle herbaceous note, or a dollop of tangy mustard on the side can provide a pleasant contrast to the richness.

Side Dishes

Complement your sliders with light and fresh sides like a crisp green salad or crunchy coleslaw to balance the buttery softness. For heartier options, classic potato chips or oven-roasted vegetables pair beautifully and make the meal feel complete without stealing the spotlight.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress guests? Serve the sliders on a wooden board layered with parchment paper—this rustic charm invites people to dig in. Alternatively, you can skewer each slider with a decorative toothpick or mini flag, making them perfect for parties or casual buffet-style meals.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra sliders (though they rarely last long), wrap them tightly in foil or place in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days, making for easy lunches or snacks later in the week.

Freezing

You can freeze these sliders pre-baked or after baking. To freeze, wrap them well in plastic wrap followed by foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through to retain that fresh-baked texture.

Reheating

To bring your leftovers back to life, reheat the sliders in a 350°F oven for about 10 to 15 minutes. This gentle warming method helps restore the buttery top and melty cheese without drying out the bread, unlike microwave heating which can often make the rolls rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! While Swiss or cheddar are classic choices, feel free to experiment with provolone, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a little kick. Each cheese brings its own personality and melting behavior, so have fun discovering your favorite combo.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Hawaiian rolls?

Soft dinner rolls or slider buns work well as alternatives. Just make sure whatever bread you use is soft enough to complement the melty cheese and ham without overpowering the overall slider experience.

Can I make this Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe vegetarian?

Yes, swap the ham with slices of grilled vegetables like eggplant or zucchini, or use plant-based deli slices. The cheese and buttery topping will still give you that comforting, melty goodness everyone loves.

Is it possible to add a sauce or spread?

Definitely! A smear of honey mustard, mayonnaise, or even a touch of Dijon on the rolls before assembling can add another layer of flavor and keep the sliders moist and vibrant.

How do I make sure the sliders don’t get soggy?

Brushing the tops with melted butter and baking at the right temperature ensures the rolls get a nice crust. Also, avoid adding wet ingredients directly to the bread—patting ham dry and using cheese slices rather than shredded can help reduce moisture buildup.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about a recipe that takes humble leftovers and turns them into a warm, delicious bite everyone will ask for again and again. This Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe is an absolute keeper—easy, comforting, and endlessly adaptable. So grab those Hawaiian rolls and leftover ham, get baking, and prepare to be the hero of your next meal or gathering!