Cheese Choice For Ham Sliders: Melty, Gooey, Perfect

There are many different types of cheese that can be used to make ham and cheese sliders. Swiss cheese is a popular choice, as it melts nicely and adds a nutty flavour that pairs well with the ham. Other options include cheddar, provolone, gruyere, Colby Jack, and Monterey Jack. For a more classic option, American mustard can be spread on the buns for a tangy flavour.

What type of bread is best for ham and cheese sliders?

When it comes to the bread for ham and cheese sliders, soft white rolls are the traditional choice. Specifically, Hawaiian sweet rolls are a popular option, known for their slightly sweet flavour and soft, fluffy texture. These rolls typically come in a slab that can be easily sliced in half horizontally, keeping the rolls stuck together so they can be baked in one piece. The standard size for this type of roll is a 12-count package, which fits well in a 9x13-inch baking dish.

However, you can also use other types of soft, white slider buns or rolls. For example, King's Hawaiian Savory Butter Rolls are a good alternative if you prefer a roll that isn't sweet. Or, if you're in the UK and can't get your hands on Hawaiian rolls, any kind of small slider-type roll will work. Just aim for a slab that will fit snugly in your baking dish.

It's worth noting that some recipes suggest lightly toasting the cut sides of the rolls before layering on the fillings. This can help prevent the sliders from becoming too soggy. To do this, place the cut rolls on a baking sheet and broil for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to avoid burning.

Ultimately, the type of bread you choose for your ham and cheese sliders is a matter of personal preference. But if you're looking for that classic, melt-in-your-mouth texture and flavour combination, soft white rolls like Hawaiian sweet rolls are the way to go.

What are the best types of ham and cheese to use?

The best types of ham and cheese to use for sliders will depend on your personal preference, but here are some popular options:

Ham

• Black Forest Ham: This dry-cured, smoked ham originates from Germany's Black Forest region. It has a distinctive smoky flavour and seasoned exterior, adding depth to the sliders.
• Honey Ham: A good substitute for Black Forest ham, honey ham is another type of smoked ham that will add a touch of sweetness to your sliders.
• Virginia Ham: This is another excellent alternative to Black Forest ham, with a similar savoury and slightly sweet flavour profile.
• Deli Ham: Shaved or thinly sliced deli ham is a convenient option that works well in these sandwiches.

Cheese

• Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese is a classic choice for ham and cheese sliders. It melts nicely and adds a nutty flavour that pairs well with the ham.
• Cheddar: Cheddar cheese is a versatile option that can be mild or sharp, depending on your preference. It melts well and is widely available.
• Gruyere: Gruyere cheese has a slightly sweet and nutty flavour that can enhance the taste of your sliders.
• Monterey Jack: This cheese melts beautifully and has a mild, creamy flavour.
• Colby: Colby cheese has a mild, creamy flavour and melts well, making it a good option for sliders.
• Provolone: Provolone is a mild, semi-soft cheese that melts well and can add a creamy texture to your sliders.

When choosing the type of ham and cheese to use, consider the balance of flavours and how well the cheese melts. You can also get creative and experiment with different combinations to find your favourite!

How do you make the sauce?

To make the sauce for your ham and cheese sliders, you'll need a few key ingredients: butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, garlic powder or fresh garlic, onion powder or dried/fresh onion, and salt and pepper.

Start by melting your butter. Then, mix in the remaining ingredients. The exact quantities will depend on your taste preferences and how much sauce you want to make, but a good rule of thumb is to use equal parts butter and Dijon mustard, with a dash of Worcestershire sauce, and then season to taste with the remaining ingredients.

For example, you could mix together 4 tablespoons of melted butter, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds, 1/2 a teaspoon of garlic powder or 1 clove of minced garlic, 1/4 of an onion (finely chopped), and salt and pepper to taste.

Once you've combined all the ingredients, simply brush the sauce over your assembled sliders before baking. This will give your sliders a delicious, tangy, buttery flavour that your guests will love!

How long do they take to cook?

The cooking time for ham and cheese sliders varies depending on the recipe and the number of servings. Most recipes call for baking the sliders in the oven at 350°F (175-180°C). Here is a breakdown of the cooking process and the time required for each step:

Preparation:

Before baking, there are several steps to prepare the sliders. Firstly, gather and measure all the ingredients, including the ham, cheese, rolls, and any additional toppings or sauces. Then, grease or line a baking dish with cooking spray, parchment paper, or foil. Next, assemble the sliders by layering the ham, cheese, and any other fillings on the rolls. This may involve slicing the rolls in half horizontally to create a base and lid. Finally, prepare the sauce or glaze by mixing the ingredients in a separate bowl. The total preparation time can range from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the recipe's complexity and the number of servings.

Baking:

Once the sliders are assembled and the sauce is ready, it's time to bake them. Most recipes recommend covering the baking dish with foil for the initial baking period. The covered sliders are then placed in the preheated oven and baked for about 12 to 15 minutes. This allows the cheese to melt and the flavours to blend without drying out the rolls.

Uncovering and Additional Baking:

After the initial baking period, remove the foil and return the sliders to the oven for an additional 10 to 15 minutes of baking. This step ensures that the tops of the rolls become lightly browned and crispy. The total baking time, including both the covered and uncovered stages, typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the recipe and the number of servings.

Resting and Serving:

Once the sliders are baked, it is essential to let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes it easier to cut and handle the sliders. Finally, use a serrated knife to slice the sliders into individual servings and enjoy! The resting and serving process usually takes around 5 to 10 minutes.

In summary, the total cooking time for ham and cheese sliders, including preparation, baking, and resting, can range from 35 to 50 minutes, depending on the specific recipe and the number of servings. It's important to follow the recipe instructions and adjust the baking time as needed to ensure the sliders are cooked to your desired level of doneness.

Can you prepare them in advance?

Yes, you can prepare ham and cheese sliders in advance. In fact, it is recommended to prepare them a few hours before serving or even a day ahead. This will allow the flavours to meld together and make for a more cohesive sandwich.

To prepare ham and cheese sliders in advance, simply assemble the sandwiches and store them in an airtight container or well-wrapped in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking. You can also freeze the assembled sandwiches for up to six months. Be sure to thaw them overnight before baking.

When you are ready to serve, bake the sliders according to your recipe instructions. Most recipes call for baking the sliders in a preheated oven at 350°F (175-180°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.

Preparing ham and cheese sliders in advance can be a great time-saver and allows you to focus on other dishes or tasks when hosting a party or gathering.

Frequently asked questions