There’s something undeniably nostalgic about the aroma of Hawaiian Ham and Pineapple Sliders wafting through the house. It takes me back to summer afternoons spent with my family, when the kitchen became a bustling hub of laughter and joy. As a child, I often helped my grandmother prepare for our weekend barbecues, where everyone gathered to enjoy the sun, good company, and, of course, delicious food. One of the star dishes at these gatherings was a variation of these sliders—tender rolls filled with savory ham, sweet pineapple, and gooey cheese.
I remember one particular summer, when I was about ten years old, my cousins and I were tasked with making our own version of sliders. We created a fun competition, each of us adding our special twist to the recipe. I opted for a generous helping of pineapple, having fallen in love with its sweetness paired with the salty ham. As we rushed to the kitchen, laughter echoed, and the air was filled with our playful banter. When it was time to taste our creations, we all gathered at the picnic table, the sun shining down as we savored each bite, smiles spread wide across our faces. It was in those moments that I realized how food could bring people together—each slider we crafted became a vessel of memories and connections.
Now, as an adult, I recreate these sliders for my family, reminding myself that cooking is not just about the food but about the experiences we create around it. This recipe is so easy that even kids can join in, making it perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even a cozy night in. With just a few simple ingredients—dinner rolls, Black Forest ham, pineapple chunks, and mozzarella cheese—you can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes!
So, gather your loved ones, embrace the warmth of shared cooking, and enjoy these delightful Hawaiian Ham and Pineapple Sliders. They’re not just a dish; they’re a celebration of togetherness, much like the sunny summers of my childhood.
How to Make Hawaiian Ham and Pineapple Sliders
Ingredients
- 1 package of 12 dinner rolls (such as King’s Hawaiian)
- 14 to 18 slices of Black Forest ham (approximately 1/2 pound)
- 1 can of pineapple chunks (well-drained)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Directions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- With a serrated knife, carefully slice the entire package of dinner rolls in half horizontally, ensuring they remain connected. Arrange the bottom half in a greased 13×9-inch baking dish.
- Layer the slices of ham evenly across the bottom rolls, followed by the drained pineapple chunks and a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese. Finally, place the top half of the rolls over the cheese.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and garlic powder. Whisk until blended and then brush this mixture generously over the top of the rolls.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 10-12 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the tops turn golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Once baked, slice the sliders into individual portions and serve them warm.
Storing Suggestion
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Cooking Tips
To enhance flavors, consider adding a touch of pineapple juice to the butter mixture. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for a spicier kick.
Serving Suggestions
These sliders pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or coleslaw. Serve them alongside tropical beverages like mai tais or piña coladas for a festive touch.
Ingredient Substitutions
If Black Forest ham is unavailable, try using honey-baked ham or turkey as a leaner alternative. For a dairy-free option, use vegan cheese instead of mozzarella.
Seasonal Variations
In the summer, consider adding slices of fresh jalapeño for a spicy kick, or replace the pineapple with fresh mango during peak mango season for a tropical twist.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains gluten, dairy, and eggs. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free dinner rolls, and for a dairy-free version, substitute with vegan cheese and butter alternatives.
FAQ:
Can I prepare the sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the sliders and store them in the refrigerator covered with foil for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze these sliders?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled, unbaked sliders. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.
What type of ham is best for these sliders?
Black Forest ham is recommended for its rich flavor, but you can use any deli ham you prefer.
Can I add more toppings to the sliders?
Feel free to add toppings such as sliced bell peppers, jalapeños, or even additional herbs like parsley for added flavor and texture.
What’s the best way to serve these sliders?
These sliders are best served warm, straight out of the oven. You can also offer a selection of dipping sauces like honey mustard or barbecue sauce on the side.
How can I make these sliders spicier?
To increase the spice level, add sliced jalapeños or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the cheese before baking.
Hawaiian Ham and Pineapple Sliders
Ingredients
- 1 package of 12 dinner rolls like King's Hawaiian
- 14 to 18 slices of Black Forest ham about 1/2 pound
- 1 can of pineapple chunks drained
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F.
- Slice the entire batch of dinner rolls in half horizontally, leaving the rolls connected. Place the bottom half in a greased 13x9-inch baking dish.
- Evenly layer the ham slices over the bottom rolls. Then sprinkle the drained pineapple and shredded cheese over the ham. Add the top half of the rolls to complete the sliders.
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and garlic powder. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the rolls.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 10-12 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the cheese is bubbling.
- Slice into individual sliders and serve warm.
