If you’re looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer, these Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders for Game Day are exactly what you need. Soft rolls filled with savory ham, creamy Havarti cheese, and brushed with a buttery, seasoned topping bake up golden, melty, and irresistible. They’re simple enough for busy weekends, yet special enough to serve at parties, tailgates, and family gatherings.
These sliders are designed to be shared, pulled apart, and enjoyed warm straight from the oven. Whether you’re feeding a hungry game day crowd or just want a no-fuss dinner everyone will love, this recipe checks every box.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders Recipe
These sliders are incredibly easy to make with minimal prep and basic ingredients you can find anywhere. The combination of salty ham and smooth Havarti cheese creates a rich, comforting flavor that appeals to both kids and adults. Baking them together keeps the rolls soft on the inside while the tops turn lightly crisp and buttery. They’re also versatile, making them perfect for game day spreads, potlucks, or quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients for Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders
Slider Base
- 12 slider rolls (Hawaiian rolls or soft dinner rolls)
- 12 slices ham
- 6 to 8 slices Havarti cheese (depending on thickness)
Buttery Topping
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon mustard (Dijon or yellow)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
If you prefer a non-pork option, substitute the ham with sliced roasted turkey, turkey ham, or smoked chicken. Havarti cheese can be replaced with Swiss, provolone, or mozzarella if needed, but Havarti offers the creamiest melt and mild flavor. For a lighter option, reduce the butter topping by a few tablespoons and brush lightly instead of soaking the rolls.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Using a sharp knife, slice the slider rolls in half horizontally without separating them individually. Place the bottom half of the rolls into a greased baking dish.
Step 2 – Add the Filling
Layer the ham evenly across the rolls, folding slices as needed to fit. Place the Havarti cheese slices on top of the ham, covering the surface evenly so every slider gets plenty of cheese.
Step 3 – Assemble the Sliders
Place the top half of the rolls back on, pressing gently to keep everything together.
Step 4 – Make the Butter Topping
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, poppy seeds, and salt until well combined.
Step 5 – Brush and Bake
Brush the butter mixture generously over the tops of the sliders, letting some drip down the sides. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes, until the tops are golden and the cheese is fully melted.
Step 6 – Rest and Serve
Remove from the oven and let the sliders rest for about 5 minutes. Slice along the roll lines and serve warm.
Pro Tips for Success
Use soft, fresh rolls for the best texture and flavor. Don’t skip covering the sliders during the first part of baking, as this helps the cheese melt evenly without over-browning the tops. If your ham is thick-cut, warm it slightly before assembling to ensure even heating. For extra flavor, add a thin layer of mayonnaise or honey mustard inside the rolls before adding the ham.
Flavor Variations
For a sweet-and-savory twist, add a thin layer of honey or apricot preserves under the ham. Turn up the flavor with caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms. Add a touch of heat by mixing a little hot sauce into the butter topping. For a breakfast-style version, use smoked turkey and add scrambled eggs before baking.
Serving Suggestions
These Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders are perfect alongside chips, potato wedges, or a crisp green salad. For game day, serve them with pickles, coleslaw, or a veggie tray with dip. They also pair well with soup for a comforting meal.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through. To freeze, wrap baked sliders tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders for Game Day
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
Description
These Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders for Game Day are soft, buttery, melty, and packed with savory ham and creamy Havarti cheese, making them the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer or easy dinner.
Ingredients
- 12 slider rolls (Hawaiian rolls or soft dinner rolls)
- 12 slices ham
- 6 to 8 slices Havarti cheese
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon mustard (Dijon or yellow)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the slider rolls in half horizontally without separating them.
- Place the bottom half of the rolls into a greased baking dish.
- Layer the ham evenly over the rolls.
- Add the Havarti cheese slices on top of the ham.
- Place the top half of the rolls back on.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, poppy seeds, and salt.
- Brush the butter mixture generously over the tops of the sliders.
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 5 to 10 minutes until golden and melted.
- Let rest for 5 minutes, slice, and serve warm.
Notes
Covering the sliders while baking helps melt the cheese evenly. Use fresh, soft rolls for the best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~280 |
| Protein | ~12g |
| Carbohydrates | ~22g |
| Fat | ~16g |
| Fiber | ~1g |
| Sodium | ~620mg |
FAQ About Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the sliders up to 24 hours in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate, then add the butter topping just before baking for best results.
What makes Havarti cheese ideal for sliders?
Havarti melts smoothly and has a mild, buttery flavor that complements ham without overpowering it. It also helps keep the sliders moist and creamy.
Can I make these sliders without mustard?
Absolutely. If you don’t like mustard, simply leave it out or replace it with a little honey or mayonnaise in the butter topping.
Are these sliders good for kids?
Yes, they’re mild, cheesy, and easy to eat, making them a great option for kids’ parties and family gatherings.
Final Thoughts
These Ham and Havarti Cheese Sliders for Game Day are everything a party recipe should be: easy, comforting, and guaranteed to disappear fast. With simple ingredients and big flavor, they’re a reliable favorite you’ll come back to again and again.