Easy Ham & Cheese Breakfast Sliders

There’s something truly magical about gathering the family around the breakfast table, especially when Ham & Cheese Breakfast Sliders are on the menu. These delightful handheld breakfast treats have been a staple in our family’s weekend tradition for as long as I can remember. My grandmother first introduced these sliders to us during a holiday gathering, and they quickly became our go-to breakfast for special occasions and lazy Sunday mornings alike.

These sliders combine the classic combination of ham and cheese with soft, buttery dinner rolls, creating a breakfast that’s not only delicious but also brings everyone to the table with smiles. What I love most about this recipe is how it evokes those precious moments of togetherness – the laughter, the shared stories, and the simple joy of breaking bread with loved ones.

As a mother of three, I’ve found that these Delicious sliders are the perfect way to feed a hungry family without spending hours in the kitchen. They’re easy to prepare ahead of time, allowing you to focus on what truly matters – creating memories around the breakfast table. Let’s dive into this cherished family recipe that has brought warmth to our kitchen for generations.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

The beauty of Ham & Cheese Breakfast Sliders lies in their simplicity. Most of these ingredients are pantry and refrigerator staples that many families already have on hand:

1 package (12 count) of Hawaiian sweet rolls (or any dinner rolls)
3/4 pound thinly sliced ham (I prefer honey ham for that touch of sweetness)
8 ounces sliced Swiss cheese (cheddar or American work wonderfully too)
6 large eggs, scrambled
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 tablespoon dried minced onion
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon poppy seeds (optional)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients harken back to simple family breakfasts – nothing fancy, just good honest food that brings people together. My grandmother always said that the secret to these sliders was using quality ham and not skimping on the butter sauce. She was right, as grandmothers usually are about these things.

Timing

One of the reasons these Ham & Cheese Breakfast Sliders have become such a beloved family tradition is that they’re relatively quick to prepare, giving you more time to spend with your loved ones rather than being stuck in the kitchen:

Preparation time: 15-20 minutes
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 35-45 minutes

If you’re planning a special family breakfast but don’t want to wake up at dawn to prepare it, here’s a little secret passed down through our family: you can assemble these sliders the night before, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. In the morning, just let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes while your oven preheats, then bake as directed. This make-ahead option has saved many of our holiday morning celebrations!

Step-by-step Instructions

Let me walk you through creating these beloved Ham & Cheese Breakfast Sliders, just as I would teach my own children:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
Prepare the scrambled eggs: In a large bowl, beat the eggs with a splash of milk, salt, and pepper. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and scramble the eggs until just set but still slightly moist. They’ll continue cooking in the oven, so it’s okay if they’re a bit underdone. Set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the rolls: Without separating the individual rolls, use a large serrated knife to slice the entire package of dinner rolls in half horizontally. Place the bottom half in the prepared baking dish.
Create the spread: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Spread this mixture evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. This adds a tangy, creamy element that elevates these sliders beyond the ordinary.
Begin layering: Arrange half of the cheese slices over the mayonnaise mixture, covering the entire surface. This bottom layer of cheese helps prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
Add the ham: Layer the ham slices evenly over the cheese. My grandmother always folded each slice to create height and texture in the sliders.
Add the eggs: Distribute the scrambled eggs evenly over the ham layer.
Finish with cheese: Top with the remaining cheese slices, ensuring complete coverage.
Complete the assembly: Place the top half of the rolls over the layered ingredients.
Prepare the butter sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, maple syrup, dried minced onion, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds (if using), and garlic powder. This glorious mixture is what transforms ordinary rolls into something magnificent.
Apply the butter sauce: Pour this mixture evenly over the tops of the rolls, allowing it to seep down the sides and into the sandwiches. Don’t rush this step – it’s the key to those caramelized, flavorful tops that everyone fights over.
Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
Serve: Let the sliders cool for about 5 minutes before cutting along the lines of the individual rolls. Serve warm, perhaps with a drizzle of maple syrup for those who like a sweeter breakfast option.

As my children have grown, I’ve taught each of them how to make these sliders. It’s become something of a rite of passage in our house – when you can make the breakfast sliders on your own, you’re officially a “big kid.” The pride on their faces when they serve these to the family is absolutely priceless.

Nutritional Information

While these Ham & Cheese Breakfast Sliders are certainly an indulgent treat rather than an everyday breakfast, it’s still helpful to understand their nutritional profile. The values below are approximate per slider (based on a 12-count package of rolls):

Calories: 320-350 calories
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 650mg

These sliders are meant to be a special breakfast treat rather than an everyday staple. In our family, we typically serve these alongside fresh fruit to balance the meal. The protein from the eggs, ham, and cheese makes these quite filling, which helps prevent overindulging.

My grandmother always said, “Everything in moderation, including moderation itself.” These sliders perfectly embody that philosophy – they’re a way to celebrate togetherness with something a little special, a little indulgent, but made with love.

Healthier Alternatives

While I cherish the original recipe passed down through our family, I understand that dietary needs and preferences vary. Here are some adaptations we’ve made over the years to accommodate different family members:

Lighter version: Use whole wheat dinner rolls, reduced-fat cheese, lean ham (or turkey ham), and egg whites instead of whole eggs. Reduce the butter by half and increase the Worcestershire sauce slightly to maintain flavor depth.
Dairy-free option: Substitute the cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use plant-based butter. These alternatives have come a long way in recent years!
Lower carb: Skip the rolls entirely and layer the ingredients in a greased baking dish, essentially creating a breakfast casserole. Cut into squares and serve with a side of fresh fruit.
Vegetarian version: Replace the ham with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, and mushrooms. The eggs and cheese still provide ample protein.
Added nutrients: Mix finely chopped spinach or other vegetables into the scrambled eggs to sneak in some extra nutrients. My children have never detected the spinach when it’s well incorporated!

Remember, family recipes are living things that evolve with each generation. While I treasure the original version my grandmother taught me, I’ve found that thoughtful adaptations can help preserve the tradition while accommodating modern dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

In our family, breakfast is often a leisurely affair, especially on weekends when we have more time to linger around the table. Here are some of our favorite ways to serve these Ham & Cheese Breakfast Sliders:

Fresh fruit platter: The sweetness and acidity of fresh fruits like berries, melon, and citrus help balance the richness of the sliders. My grandmother always arranged the fruit in a rainbow pattern, which the children love.
Yogurt parfaits: A lighter side option with layers of yogurt, granola, and fresh berries provides a nice contrast in both flavor and texture.
Crispy hash browns: For heartier appetites, especially during holiday mornings, crispy hash browns or home fries complement the sliders perfectly.
Simple green salad: For a brunch setting, a light salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the sliders beautifully.
Hot beverage bar: Set up a self-serve station with coffee, hot chocolate, and various teas. Include flavored creamers, cinnamon sticks, and whipped cream to make it special.

For special occasions, consider creating a “slider bar” where family members can customize their own sliders with additional toppings like avocado slices, hot sauce, extra maple syrup, or a variety of mustards. This interactive approach makes breakfast feel extra special and caters to individual preferences.

In our home, we always serve these sliders family-style, passing the dish around the table and allowing everyone to take their portion. There’s something deeply connective about sharing food this way – it reinforces the communal nature of the meal and encourages conversation.

Common Mistakes

Through years of making these sliders for family gatherings, I’ve learned a few lessons the hard way. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Overcooked eggs: Remember that the eggs will continue cooking in the oven. If you scramble them until they’re completely dry, they’ll become rubbery in the finished sliders. Keep them slightly underdone initially.
Skimping on the butter sauce: This sauce is what transforms ordinary dinner rolls into something magical. Make sure it’s evenly distributed over all the rolls, reaching the edges. If the outer rolls seem dry after baking, they likely didn’t get enough sauce.
Rushing the baking process: The covered baking time allows the heat to penetrate through all layers without burning the tops. Don’t skip this step or reduce the time significantly.
Using cold ingredients: If you’re using ingredients straight from the refrigerator, especially the ham and cheese, they might not heat through completely during baking. Let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before assembly.
Cutting too soon: Allow the sliders to rest for about 5 minutes after removing them from the oven. This lets the cheese set slightly and makes for cleaner cutting and serving.
Not using a serrated knife: A regular knife can compress the rolls when cutting. A serrated knife makes clean cuts without squishing your beautiful creation.

My grandmother always said that cooking is as much about patience as it is about ingredients. These sliders reward a methodical, unhurried approach – which is perhaps why they’re so perfect for family gatherings where we intentionally slow down and connect with one another.

Storage Tips

While these Ham & Cheese Breakfast Sliders are at their absolute best fresh from the oven, family life sometimes requires make-ahead options and strategies for leftovers. Here’s what I’ve learned about storing these beloved breakfast treats:

Make-ahead preparation: You can assemble the sliders completely up to 24 hours in advance, but wait to add the butter sauce until just before baking. Cover the assembled sliders tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator, add the butter sauce, and let stand at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before baking as directed.
Refrigerating leftovers: Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They make a quick grab-and-go breakfast option during busy weekday mornings.
Reheating refrigerated sliders: For best results, wrap individual sliders loosely in foil and reheat in a 325°F oven for about 10-12 minutes. Microwaving is faster (30-45 seconds) but will make the bread slightly chewy rather than crisp.
Freezing: These sliders freeze surprisingly well! Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. This is perfect for busy families – my children love finding these in their lunch boxes (they thaw by lunchtime) or quickly reheating one for an after-school snack.
Reheating from frozen: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if possible, then reheat as above. If reheating directly from frozen, wrap in foil and bake at 325°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.

My grandmother taught me that good planning prevents waste, and these storage methods have helped us enjoy these sliders even during the busiest seasons of family life. There’s something especially comforting about pulling a homemade breakfast from the freezer on a particularly hectic morning.

Conclusion

Ham & Cheese Breakfast Sliders are more than just a recipe in our family – they’re a tradition, a comfort, and a connection to generations past. From my grandmother’s kitchen to mine, and now to my children’s, these sliders have witnessed countless family moments, holiday mornings, and weekend gatherings.

What makes this recipe truly special isn’t just the combination of savory ham, melted cheese, and fluffy eggs nestled between buttery rolls – it’s the memories created around the table while enjoying them together. I can still see my grandmother’s hands deftly assembling the layers, teaching me to be generous with the butter sauce, and reminding me that the most important ingredient in any family recipe is love.

As you bring these sliders to your own family table, I hope they become more than just a delicious breakfast. I hope they become a vehicle for connection, conversation, and the making of memories. Perhaps one day, your children or grandchildren will think of you fondly as they prepare this very same dish for their own families, continuing the beautiful cycle of nourishment that extends far beyond mere sustenance.

In a world that moves increasingly quickly, there’s profound value in these simple traditions that bring us together around the table. So gather your ingredients, call the family to the kitchen, and let the aroma of these baking sliders become part of your family’s story, just as they’ve become part of ours.

FAQs

Can I use different types of rolls for these breakfast sliders?

Absolutely! While Hawaiian sweet rolls offer that perfect combination of softness and slight sweetness, you can use any dinner rolls you prefer. Brioche rolls add richness, while whole wheat rolls provide a nuttier flavor and additional fiber. My mother-in-law even makes these with homemade biscuits split in half, which creates a completely different but equally delicious version.

Is there a way to make these Ham & Cheese Breakfast Sliders ahead of time for a large family gathering?

Yes, these sliders are perfect for entertaining! You can assemble everything the night before, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. In the morning, remove from the refrigerator about 20 minutes before baking to take the chill off, then bake as directed. For very large gatherings, we often prepare multiple trays—some with the classic recipe and others with variations to accommodate different preferences and dietary needs.

My family doesn’t eat pork. What would be a good substitute for the ham?

Turkey ham works beautifully as a direct substitute with a very similar flavor profile. Alternatively, you could use sliced turkey breast, chicken breakfast sausage (pre-cooked and crumbled), or even smoked salmon for a more gourmet version. For vegetarian options, consider using meat alternatives designed to mimic ham, or simply increase the egg portion and add roasted vegetables. The versatility of this recipe is one of its greatest strengths!

The butter sauce seems very rich. Is there a lighter alternative?

The butter sauce does contribute significant flavor and that golden, slightly crisp top that makes these sliders special. However, you can reduce the butter by half and add a tablespoon of olive oil or even chicken broth to maintain the moisture. Another option is to use a butter substitute or even a light brush of egg wash on top, though the flavor profile will change. In our family, we make the full butter sauce for special occasions but use a lighter version for regular weekend breakfasts.

My sliders turned out a bit soggy on the bottom. What might have gone wrong?

This usually happens when too much moisture gets trapped in the bottom layer. Here are a few tips: 1) Make sure your scrambled eggs aren’t too wet; drain them on paper towels if necessary before assembling. 2) The layer of cheese on the bottom actually helps create a barrier against sogginess, so don’t skip it. 3) If you’re making these ahead of time, wait to add the butter sauce until just before baking. 4) Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking, as a properly hot oven helps the bottom crisp up before it can become soggy. My grandmother’s secret was to place the baking dish on a preheated baking sheet, which helps cook the bottom more quickly.