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These Ham and Pineapple Sliders are perfect for a crowd pleasing party snack or a warm family dinner when you want something a little sweet a little savory and a lot comforting. The buttery potato rolls soak up all the tangy sweet richness of the sauce while the ham and pineapple bring a tropical twist that always feels a little festive. This is my number one choice when I need to whip up something fast that everyone will love.
The first time I brought these to a game night they vanished before I could even set the serving tray down. Now my friends request them every time we have a get together because they are just that addictive.
Ingredients
- Martin’s Dinner Potato Rolls: soft and fluffy texture holds everything together Pick the freshest pack to avoid squished rolls
- Sliced Deli-Style Ham: brings rich salty notes Go for a well marbled ham for the best flavor
- Fresh or Canned Pineapple: adds bright tangy sweetness Fresh slices offer more texture but canned works beautifully
- Swiss Cheese: perfectly melty and mild Choose pre sliced for convenience or from the deli for extra taste
- Unsalted Butter: base of the sauce ensures buttery richness Grab a high quality stick for more flavor
- Shallot: minced shallot gives subtle sweetness and depth Look for firm dry shallots with tight skin
- Dijon Mustard: wakes up the sauce with tanginess Smooth Dijon is ideal but grainy will also work
- Brown Sugar: a touch of caramel sweetness that balances out the ham Pick a fresh packet without clumps
- Worcestershire Sauce: adds umami and rounds out the glaze
- Salt: enhances all the flavors Use fine salt so it blends well
- Fresh Parsley: adds color and a fresh note Snip just before serving for best appearance
Instructions
- Prepare the Rolls:
- Split the dinner rolls horizontally with a sharp bread knife keeping the top and bottom halves in one piece for easier assembly Arrange the bottom halves close together in a greased baking dish
- Layer the Fillings:
- Evenly distribute the sliced ham over the bottom rolls Then place a slice of pineapple on top of each spot Add a slice of Swiss cheese over each mound pressing gently so the toppings stay in place
- Add the Top Rolls:
- Carefully lift the top halves of the rolls and position them neatly on top of the fillings aligning with the bottom rolls so each slider is stacked evenly
- Make the Sauce:
- In a small saucepan melt the butter over medium heat Add the minced shallot and cook for one minute stirring so it softens and releases its aroma Remove from heat Quickly whisk in the Dijon mustard brown sugar Worcestershire sauce and salt until the mixture is fully combined
- Brush and Bake:
- Using a pastry brush generously coat the tops of the sliders with the prepared butter sauce Make sure to cover the edges so every bite gets flavor Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about ten minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden and slightly crisp
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the warm sliders just before serving Transfer to a platter and enjoy while gooey and fragrant
My favorite part is the sauce that soaks into the rolls making every bite rich and savory I once made two pans for a family reunion and one disappeared before I could even get a photo Now my niece insists we make them for every picnic
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers wrap the sliders tightly in foil to keep them soft Store them in the fridge for up to three days Warm them in the oven covered with foil so they do not dry out You can also reheat individual sliders in the microwave for quick lunches
Ingredient Substitutions
Honey ham will give a sweeter note if you want extra caramel flavor Swap Swiss cheese for provolone or mozzarella for a milder taste Dijon mustard gives the sauce zing but a little yellow mustard will work if that is all you have
Serving Suggestions
Pair these sliders with a simple green salad or baked sweet potato fries for a rounded meal They are also perfect as a party platter alongside fruit skewers or pickles Sometimes for a brunch I add a breakfast twist with a scrambled egg layer
Cultural and Historical Context
Hawaiian pizza inspired the classic ham and pineapple flavor combo in the slider and its roots trace back to the mid twentieth century These sliders channel tiki party vibes and always spark conversation about favorite sweet and savory foods
Seasonal Adaptations
Use grill marks on fresh pineapple slices for a summer barbecue feel Add thin slices of ripe peach with the pineapple in peak season Swap out the ham for leftover holiday turkey for a festive winter crowd pleaser
Success Stories
Once at a birthday picnic these sliders disappeared in minutes and I had so many requests for the recipe they are now a staple for family birthdays and showers Guests always remember them as the recipe to request any time we gather
Freezer Meal Conversion
You can assemble these sliders up to the sauce step wrap them tightly and freeze for up to one month When ready to serve thaw in the refrigerator and bake as directed Brush extra sauce on before baking for best results
Once you try these ham and pineapple sliders you will see how quickly they become a most requested favorite. They are the easiest way to make a crowd happy and bring a little tropical fun to any table.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of ham works best?
Deli-style sliced ham provides both flavor and easy layering for these sliders. Choose your favorite brand or smoked variety for added depth.
- → Should I use fresh or canned pineapple?
Both fresh and canned pineapple slices work well, bringing sweetness and moisture. Fresh delivers a brighter flavor, while canned offers convenience.
- → How do I prevent soggy sliders?
Don't overdo the glaze; a light brushing prevents soggy bread. Baking at 350°F also helps crisp the tops while keeping centers moist.
- → Can these be made in advance?
You can assemble sliders ahead and refrigerate. Brush with glaze just before baking to ensure freshness and ideal texture.
- → What cheese alternatives work?
Swiss provides a classic taste, but provolone or mozzarella also melt well and complement ham and pineapple flavors.