INTRODUCTION
Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders are a delightful treat that combines savory ham and melted cheese between soft rolls, all baked to perfection. This recipe not only pleases the taste buds but also offers a variety of benefits that make it a great addition to any meal plan. In this article, we will explore how to make these delicious sliders while keeping them healthy and suitable for various dietary needs.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
This recipe is perfect for those looking for a quick meal prep option. Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders can be made in less than an hour and are ideal for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. They provide a lighter option compared to traditional sandwiches, making them a great choice if you’re aiming for a balanced meal that promotes weight loss. Additionally, with the right substitutions, you can easily make these sliders gluten-free or low-carb, catering to a variety of dietary needs.
HOW TO MAKE Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders
Making Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders is simple and straightforward. With a few easy steps, you can prepare a dish that your family will love. Whether you are looking for a healthy version or just something delicious, these sliders hit the spot.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Small whisk or spoon
- Knife for slicing
- Oven
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 0.75 cup melted butter
- 1.5 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1.5 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1.5 tablespoons poppy seeds
- 1 tablespoon dried minced onion
- 24 mini sandwich rolls
- 1 pound thinly sliced cooked deli ham
- 1 pound thinly sliced Swiss cheese
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
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Gather all ingredients. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Mix melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, and dried minced onion in a bowl until well combined.
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Separate the tops from the bottoms of the rolls; arrange the bottom pieces in a layer in the prepared baking dish. Layer about half of the ham onto the rolls; add a layer of Swiss cheese and top with the remaining ham slices.
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Place the tops of the rolls onto the sandwiches. Pour the mustard mixture evenly over the rolls, making sure to coat them well.
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Bake in the preheated oven until the rolls are lightly browned and the cheese has melted, about 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and slice into individual rolls through the ham and cheese layers to serve.
HOW TO SERVE Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders
These sliders are delicious on their own, but you can also enhance your meal with some healthy side options. Serve the sliders with a crisp side salad that includes dark leafy greens like spinach or romaine. Adding some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette dressing can provide extra fiber and nutrients.
When serving, keep portion control in mind. One or two sliders can be satisfying, especially with a side of vegetables or a light soup, making it a balanced meal.
STORAGE & FREEZING: Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders
If you have leftovers, these sliders store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the sliders in the oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for about 10 minutes, until heated through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked sliders. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you are ready to enjoy them, bake the frozen sliders directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time until warmed through and golden.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
When looking for a side to pair with these sliders, consider a light vegetable soup. A bowl of tomato basil soup or a hearty vegetable minestrone could complement the rich flavors of the ham and cheese. Alternatively, serve them with carrot sticks and hummus for a crunchy, fiber-packed side that balances the meal.
VARIATIONS
Healthier Version
For a healthier take, swap the white sandwich rolls for whole wheat or gluten-free rolls. You can also use low-fat cheese and reduced-sodium ham to cut down on calories and sodium, making it a great high protein meal option without compromising flavor.
High-Protein or Low-Carb Version
For a low-carb variation, replace the sandwich rolls with lettuce wraps or cloud bread. This not only reduces carbs but also increases the freshness of the sliders, making them a lighter option that supports weight loss goals.
Air Fryer or Oven-Baked Version
If you prefer a quicker method, these sliders can also be made in an air fryer. Place the assembled sliders in the air fryer basket and cook at 300 degrees F (150 degrees C) for about 10 minutes. This air fryer method results in crispy tops and gooey cheese without the wait of a traditional oven.
FAQs
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Can I make Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free rolls and check that the ham and cheese are also gluten-free for a completely gluten-free meal. -
Are these sliders suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can assemble the sliders ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake them, making it easy to have a quick meal on hand. -
How can I reduce calories in this recipe?
To reduce calories, use whole wheat rolls, low-fat cheese, and lower sodium meats. You can also decrease the amount of butter or substitute it with a light spread. -
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They can also be frozen before baking for later use.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders
If you want to save time during busy weekdays, these sliders are a great meal prep option. You can assemble the sandwiches the night before and store them in the fridge. This way, when you come home from work or activities, you can quickly bake them for dinner. Additionally, consider making a double batch on the weekend and freezing half for an easy meal later on.
In conclusion, Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders are not only a tasty treat but also a healthy choice that fits into various diets. They are versatile, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion or craving. Enjoy this delightful recipe that promises to be a crowd-pleaser while giving you the balance you seek in a meal!
Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders
Ingredients
Method
- Gather all ingredients and preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, and dried minced onion until well combined.
- Separate the tops from the bottoms of the rolls; arrange the bottom pieces in a layer in the prepared baking dish.
- Layer about half of the ham onto the rolls, add a layer of Swiss cheese, and then top with the remaining ham.
- Place the tops of the rolls onto the sandwiches and pour the mustard mixture evenly over them, ensuring they are well coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the rolls are lightly browned and the cheese has melted, about 20 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and slice into individual rolls through the ham and cheese layers to serve.