These ham and cranberry sliders are perfect for a tasty snack or party treat! They’re soft, sweet, and packed with flavor, thanks to the savory ham and tangy cranberry sauce.
Honestly, these little sandwiches are so easy to make! I love to whip them up for game days or holiday gatherings. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a sweet and salty combo, right? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: Small soft dinner rolls are ideal for sliders. If you can’t find slider buns, use Hawaiian rolls for a sweet twist, or cut larger rolls into mini sizes.
Deli Ham: I recommend using a good quality deli ham for the best flavor. If you want a healthier option, turkey or chicken deli meat works great too!
Swiss Cheese: While Swiss cheese adds a nice flavor, provolone is a great alternative. If you prefer a sharper taste, you can also try cheddar.
Cranberry Sauce: Whole berry cranberry sauce is the best for texture. In a pinch, you can use leftover cranberry sauce from Thanksgiving. Or blend fresh cranberries with a bit of sugar to make your own!
Poppy Seeds: These add a nice crunch and flavor, but they’re optional. If you don’t have them, try sesame seeds or skip them altogether!
How Do You Keep Your Sliders from Getting Soggy?
To prevent soggy sliders, there are a couple of key steps to follow:
- First, don’t overload the sliders with cranberry sauce. A thin layer is all you need for flavor without the sogginess.
- When spreading the butter mixture on top, make sure it’s not dripping down the sides of the buns.
- Cover with foil while baking but uncover it for the last few minutes to allow the tops to crisp up.
Following these tips will keep your sliders perfect and ready to enjoy without falling apart!
Ham And Cranberry Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (small soft dinner rolls)
- 1 pound sliced deli ham
- 6 slices Swiss cheese (or provolone), halved
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry preferred)
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
For Garnishing:
- Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 30 minutes before you can enjoy these delicious sliders. Easy and quick for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Set your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your sliders are perfectly baked when you’re ready to pop them in!
2. Prepare the Buns:
Take your slider buns and slice them in half horizontally. Make sure to keep the tops and bottoms attached if you can. Place them in a baking dish that is about 9×13 inches—this will hold all your sliders nicely!
3. Add the Cranberry Sauce:
Evenly spread the cranberry sauce over the bottom halves of the slider buns. This adds a sweet, tangy layer that pairs beautifully with the savory ham.
4. Layer the Ham and Cheese:
Now, layer the sliced deli ham evenly over the cranberry sauce. On top of that, add the half slices of Swiss or provolone cheese.
5. Cover with the Top Buns:
Place the top halves of the slider buns onto the cheese. Now you have your little sliders ready to be topped!
6. Mix Your Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, and dried thyme. This will give your sliders a flavorful crust!
7. Brush the Topping:
Brush this delicious butter mixture evenly over the tops of each slider bun. Make sure they are well-coated for maximum yumminess!
8. Bake the Sliders:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the sliders are heated through.
9. Brown the Tops:
After 15 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes. This will help brown the tops of the sliders just right.
10. Final Touches:
Once done, take the dish out of the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes, then you can insert decorative picks to hold the sliders together and garnish with fresh thyme if you’re feeling fancy!
11. Serve and Enjoy:
These sliders are the perfect warm appetizer or snack. Serve them up and enjoy the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors in every bite!
These ham and cranberry sliders are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Meats for the Sliders?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute the ham with turkey, chicken, or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that the flavor pairs well with the cranberry sauce.
How Can I Make These Sliders Spicier?
If you want a kick, add a few slices of jalapeños or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the butter mixture before brushing it on the buns. This will give your sliders a nice heat without overpowering the other flavors.
Can I Prepare the Sliders in Advance?
Yes, you can assemble the sliders ahead of time! Prepare them up to step 7, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re chilled.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.