Caramelized Onion and Ham Sliders
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Caramelized Onion and Ham Sliders are one of those delightful recipes that brings comfort and flavor to any gathering. These little sandwiches are often the hit of a potluck or family game night—each bite is a perfect blend of sweet caramelized onions, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese, all nestled between soft, pillowy buns. I can’t count the times I’ve made these for brunch with friends or as a quick dinner that the whole family enjoys. Their straightforward preparation and delectable taste make them a must-try in your kitchen!
What Makes This Recipe Special
When it comes to sliders, these Caramelized Onion and Ham Sliders stand out for several reasons. First, they are a breeze to assemble, making them perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend brunches. Secondly, these sliders cater to both adults and kids—what’s not to love about ham and cheese in a fun, handheld form? They’re also a great meal option during gatherings, bringing everyone together over a shared love of tasty bites.
"These sliders were a hit at my last game night! Everyone kept going back for more. I love how easy they were to make!" — A happy home cook
Preparing Caramelized Onion and Ham Sliders
Creating these sliders involves two main components: caramelizing the onions to bring out their natural sweetness, and layering the ingredients for maximum flavor. Don’t worry; the process is easy! You’ll be cooking those onions low and slow, allowing them to become rich and jammy. Once that’s done, mixing in buttery goodness and putting the sliders together is a breeze.
What You’ll Need
Before diving in, gather the following ingredients for an effortless cooking experience:
- 2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large onion, halved and thinly sliced
- Kosher salt
- 4 Tablespoons melted butter
- 1 Tablespoon poppy seeds
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 12 mini Hawaiian rolls
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup honey mustard
- 1 1/2 pounds deli sliced ham
- 1 pound sliced Swiss cheese
Feel free to use other types of cheese if you prefer—cheddar or provolone work great too!
Directions to Follow
Make the Caramelized Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Once hot, add the onion slices and a pinch of salt. Lower the heat to medium-low, and let the onions cook slowly. Stir occasionally until they transform into a beautiful caramel color, about 25 minutes. Once achieved, set them aside to cool slightly.
Preheat the Oven: Bring your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Prepare the Poppy Butter Topping: In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, poppy seeds, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
Assemble the Sliders: Split the mini Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves on a baking sheet. Evenly spread the mayonnaise over the bottom buns, then layer with half the ham slices. Top this with a layer of Swiss cheese, followed by the remaining ham. Add a spread of honey mustard and top with your caramelized onions. Close the sandwiches with the top halves of the rolls.
Add the Poppy Seed Topping: Brush that delicious poppyseed mixture generously over the tops of the buns until coated.
Bake: Pop the assembly into the preheated oven. Bake for about 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is beautifully melted and the tops are golden. If your sliders brown too quickly, feel free to tent them with foil to prevent further browning.
Serve Warm: Enjoy these sliders hot out of the oven—they’re best when gooey and fresh!Serving these Caramelized Onion and Ham Sliders can be as simple or as elaborate as you wish. For a casual approach, serve them on a simple platter with a side of crunchy pickles or potato chips. If hosting a gathering, consider adding a colorful vegetable platter and some craft beers for the adults. These sliders also pair wonderfully with a light salad, bringing a crispness that balances the richness of the dish.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be consumed within 3 to 4 days for the best taste. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350 degrees for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. If you need to freeze them, make sure they’re individually wrapped and can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Helpful Cooking Tips
For perfect caramelized onions, patience is key. You want to cook them low and slow. Don’t rush the process! And if you’re short on time, you can opt for pre-packaged caramelized onions available at some grocery stores. It’s a great shortcut, especially during hectic weeks. Additionally, consider experimenting with different condiments or cheese varieties to customize the sliders to your taste!
Creative Twists
Feel free to mix things up with this recipe! You could swap the honey mustard for a spicy mustard or add slices of apple for a touch of sweetness. For a healthier spin, try using whole grain rolls and turkey instead of ham. Want a vegetarian option? Substitute the ham with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a delightful variation.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to prepare?
Prep and cook time for these sliders is typically around 45 minutes, with 25 minutes dedicated to caramelizing the onions.Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble them the day before, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve.What’s the best way to store extras?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days, or freeze wrapped individually for up to 2 months. Always reheat thoroughly before serving.Enjoy creating these Caramelized Onion and Ham Sliders and watch them disappear from your table! They’re sure to become a favorite in your household too.
Ingredients
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