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Are you ready to enjoy a tasty treat? These Ham and Havarti Sliders are both savory and simple to make. You can whip them up for a quick lunch, party snack, or family dinner. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have sliders that everyone will love. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and discover how to make these mouthwatering bites together!

Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Deliciously Cheesy: The combination of ham and Havarti cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that is sure to satisfy your cravings.
- Customizable: You can easily swap in different meats or cheeses based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Perfect for Sharing: These sliders are great for parties, game days, or any occasion where you want to serve something everyone will love!
Ingredients
Full list of ingredients for Ham and Havarti Sliders
For these tasty sliders, you will need:
– 12 slider buns
– 1 pound sliced ham
– 8 ounces Havarti cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh arugula or spinach for garnish
These ingredients create a savory blend. Each item plays a key role in flavor and texture.
Substitute options for key ingredients
You can switch out some ingredients if needed:
– Slider buns: Use whole wheat buns or gluten-free options for a healthier choice.
– Sliced ham: Turkey or chicken can work well if you want a lighter flavor.
– Havarti cheese: Try gouda or mozzarella for a different cheese taste.
– Unsalted butter: Olive oil or a dairy-free spread can replace the butter.
– Dijon mustard: Yellow mustard or honey mustard adds a nice touch too.
These swaps let you adjust the sliders to fit your taste or dietary needs.
Recommended serving suggestions for sliders
Serve these sliders with fun sides to make a meal:
– Pair them with a fresh salad for a light option.
– Serve with sweet potato fries for a twist on tradition.
– Add dipping sauces like honey mustard or barbecue for extra flavor.
These ideas make your slider meal even more enjoyable. Explore different combinations to find what you love!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating the oven and preparing the baking dish
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This heat helps cook the sliders evenly. While the oven warms, grab a baking dish. Coat it lightly with cooking spray or butter. This step keeps the sliders from sticking.
Creating the mustard butter mixture
In a small bowl, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. Add 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the melted butter. Then, mix in 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Finally, add a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk all the ingredients until they blend well. This mixture gives the sliders a tasty top.
Assembling the sliders in the dish
Take your slider buns and slice them in half. Keep the top and bottom halves attached. Place the bottom halves in the greased baking dish. Start layering by adding half of the sliced ham. Make sure to cover every bun. Next, add a generous layer of Havarti cheese on the ham. Then, add the rest of the ham on top.
Baking instructions and timing
Gently place the top halves of the buns over the stacked ham and cheese. Drizzle the mustard butter mixture on top of the buns. Sprinkle poppy seeds over the sliders for extra flavor. Cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake for 15 minutes. This keeps the cheese melty and warms the ham.
Final touches and serving preparation
After 15 minutes, remove the foil. Bake for an extra 5-10 minutes. Look for bubbling cheese and golden-brown tops. When done, take the dish out and let it cool for a few minutes. Use a spatula to lift the sliders carefully. Garnish with fresh arugula or spinach. Slice the sliders for serving, and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
How to achieve the perfect cheese melt
To get that perfect melt with Havarti cheese, you need to use low heat. Bake your sliders at 350°F (175°C) for the right time. Cover them with foil for the first part of baking. This keeps the heat in and helps the cheese melt nicely. After 15 minutes, take off the foil to let the top brown. The cheese should be gooey and stretchy. If you want more flavor, mix in some shredded cheese with the Havarti.
Suggestions for spice adjustments
Want to add a kick to your sliders? You can tweak the spices to fit your taste. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. If you love herbs, sprinkle in some dried oregano or thyme. For a sweet touch, mix in a bit of honey with your mustard. Always taste the mustard butter mixture before you add it to the sliders. Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking as well.
Best practices for keeping sliders moist
Moist sliders are key to a tasty bite. Make sure to cover the baking dish with foil while baking. This traps steam, keeping the sliders soft. Use unsalted butter for the mixture, as it adds richness without overpowering. Serve sliders right after baking for the best texture. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container to keep them from drying out. A little extra melted butter on top before serving can also help add moisture back in.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for high-quality, fresh ham and cheese for the best flavor and texture in your sliders.
- Customize Your Cheese: While Havarti is delicious, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Swiss or Gruyère for different flavor profiles.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the sliders in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve!
- Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to add other toppings like caramelized onions or sliced jalapeños for an extra kick of flavor.

Variations
Different types of cheese to use in sliders
You can switch up the cheese in your sliders for fun. Cheddar offers a sharp taste. Swiss cheese adds a nutty flavor. Provolone melts well and has a mild taste. Pepper jack gives a spicy kick. Each cheese brings its own unique flavor, making your sliders special.
Adding vegetables or other proteins for variety
Want to mix it up? Add layers of veggies like roasted peppers or sautéed onions. Fresh spinach or arugula gives a nice crunch. You could also use turkey or chicken instead of ham. This way, you can customize your sliders to fit your cravings.
Making sliders gluten-free or low-carb
To make gluten-free sliders, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. Look for brands that offer gluten-free options. For a low-carb version, skip the buns and use slices of cucumber or bell pepper. This keeps the taste while making it healthier.
Storage Info
Best way to store leftover sliders
To keep your leftover sliders fresh, place them in an airtight container. If you don’t have one, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. This helps prevent the buns from getting dry. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing.
Reheating suggestions for optimal taste
When you’re ready to enjoy your sliders again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sliders on a baking sheet. Cover them with foil to keep them moist. Heat for about 10 to 15 minutes. This method keeps the cheese melty and the buns soft. You can also use a microwave for quick reheating. Just heat them for about 30 seconds, but know the buns might get a bit chewy.
Freezing options for sliders
If you want to freeze your sliders, assemble them without baking. Wrap each slider in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They will last for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, remove the sliders from the freezer, let them thaw in the fridge overnight, and then bake as directed. This way, you can enjoy fresh, warm sliders anytime!
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat in these sliders?
Yes, you can! These sliders are great with other meats. Try turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Roast beef adds a nice flavor, too. You can use any deli meat you like. Just make sure the meat pairs well with Havarti cheese. This cheese melts nicely and balances flavors.
How can I make these sliders ahead of time?
You can prepare the sliders a few hours in advance. Assemble them as the recipe says, but do not bake them yet. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge. When you’re ready, bake the sliders straight from the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time for best results.
What dipping sauces pair well with Ham and Havarti Sliders?
Dipping sauces can really enhance your sliders. Honey mustard brings a sweet and tangy kick. Barbecue sauce adds a smoky flavor that goes well with ham. You can also try ranch dressing for a creamy dip. For a zesty option, sriracha mayo mixes heat with creaminess. Pick your favorite and enjoy!
In this blog post, we covered how to make delicious Ham and Havarti Sliders. You learned about the key ingredients, easy steps for baking, and tips for perfecting the sliders. We also explored variations and how to store leftovers. Remember, these sliders can be customized to fit your taste. Think about different cheeses or meats to try. Making these sliders is fun and allows for creativity. Enjoy every bite and share with other
Cheesy Ham & Havarti Sliders
Delicious sliders filled with ham and melted Havarti cheese, perfect for gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
- 12 count slider buns
- 1 pound sliced ham
- 8 ounces Havarti cheese, sliced
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
- to taste salt and pepper
- for garnish fresh arugula or spinach
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even baking temperature for the sliders.
In a small mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well blended.
Carefully slice the slider buns in half horizontally, keeping the top and bottom halves connected. Place the bottom halves snugly in a greased baking dish to create a sturdy base.
Start by layering half of the sliced ham evenly over the bottom buns. Make sure to cover the surface completely for a delicious bite every time. Next, place a generous layer of Havarti cheese slices on top of the ham, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully as it bakes.
Add the remaining sliced ham on top of the cheese, creating a hearty filling, then gently place the top halves of the buns over the stacked ingredients to complete the slider assembly.
Drizzle the mustard butter mixture evenly across the tops of the sliders, ensuring every bun gets a nice coating for flavor. Sprinkle poppy seeds generously over the slider tops for added taste and a delightful crunch.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture, and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. This will help melt the cheese and warm the ham thoroughly.
After 15 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the tops are a golden brown, indicating a crispy finish.
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Gently lift the sliders from the dish with a spatula, being careful not to break apart the components.
Garnish the sliders with fresh arugula or spinach for a burst of color and freshness. Slice the sliders for easy serving, and enjoy the melty, savory goodness!
Arrange the sliders on a platter and serve with a side of dipping sauces like honey mustard or barbecue for an added kick!
Keyword appetizer, cheese, ham, sliders
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