Ham and Havarti Sliders

Ham and Havarti Sliders came to life in my kitchen one game day afternoon when I needed something satisfying and easy to feed a hungry group and I had deli ham and a block of Havarti and some soft slider buns and so I layered them together and popped them in the oven. I didn’t expect much and but after that first warm and cheesy bite and I knew these would be showing up on our table again and again.

There’s just something about the combination of salty ham and creamy Havarti all nestled in buttery toasted buns that feels like the perfect bite every time. These sliders are fantastic for parties and potlucks and even a fun weeknight dinner and plus you can prep them ahead and bake when ready. If you’re looking for a quick and crowd-pleasing idea and these Ham and Havarti Sliders are it.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Slider buns – Soft and slightly sweet rolls that hold the fillings perfectly.
• Deli ham – Thinly sliced and slightly salty and great for layering.
• Havarti cheese – Smooth and creamy with a mild buttery flavor that melts beautifully.
• Butter – Used for brushing the tops and adding richness while baking.
• Dijon mustard – Adds a slight tang to balance the richness.
• Poppy or sesame seeds – Optional but great for topping with a bit of texture and flavor.
• Garlic powder – Mixed with the butter to give a savory boost.

Tools You’ll Need

• Baking dish or sheet pan – To assemble and bake the sliders evenly.
• Small saucepan – For melting the butter and mixing in seasoning.
• Pastry brush – Helps apply the buttery topping to the buns.
• Knife and cutting board – For slicing cheese or stacking neatly.
• Aluminum foil – To cover the sliders while baking and prevent over-browning.

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by preheating the oven to 350°F and lightly greasing a baking dish or lining it with parchment paper.

Step 2:

I slice the slider buns in half and place the bottoms in the baking dish and then I layer slices of ham and Havarti cheese over each.

Step 3:

Once filled and I place the tops of the buns back on and gently press down.

Step 4:

In a small saucepan and I melt the butter and stir in Dijon mustard and garlic powder and I brush this mixture generously over the tops of the sliders.

Step 5:

I sprinkle the tops with sesame or poppy seeds for a little extra flair and flavor.

Step 6:

I cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes and then remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 5–7 minutes until the cheese is melty and the tops are golden.

Step 7:

I let them cool for just a couple of minutes before serving warm and gooey.

Tips

If you want to prep ahead and you can assemble the sliders and refrigerate them covered for up to 24 hours before baking. I also like to add a thin layer of honey mustard or even a few caramelized onions for an extra punch of flavor. If you’re not a Havarti fan and Swiss or provolone also work beautifully. Toast the buns for a few minutes before assembling if you like extra texture on the base.

Ways to Serve

As a party appetizer or game day snack

With a side of coleslaw or potato salad for lunch

Paired with soup for a cozy and easy dinner

Packed into foil and taken on a picnic or road trip

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Ham and Havarti Sliders ahead of time?

Yes and assemble them and keep refrigerated and then bake just before serving.

What’s a good substitute for Havarti cheese in Ham and Havarti Sliders?

Swiss and provolone or even cheddar are great alternatives that still melt well.

Can I freeze Ham and Havarti Sliders?

You can and but for best texture and I recommend freezing them after baking and then reheating in the oven.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try these Ham and Havarti Sliders soon! They’re warm and cheesy and just the thing for sharing with friends or family. Let me know how you make them your own or what twists you try!

Happy Cooking!

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