Honey Mustard Ham Sliders

Honey mustard ham and cheese on pretzel sliders bring together soft pretzel buns, savory Black Forest ham, melty provolone, and a tangy honey mustard spread for an irresistible party food. These sliders work perfectly for game nights, picnics, or casual gatherings, where people enjoy easytohandle bites that burst with flavor. I always think of halftime at football games when everyone gathers around, sharing laughs and appetizers that disappear before the next play, and these sliders have been a favorite ever since.

I first brought these sliders to a family reunion and they vanished faster than I expected. Now friends ask me to make them for every party.

Ingredients

• 12 mini pretzel slider buns: Provide a chewy and delicious base. Try to find fresh ones for best texture.
• 1 pound thinly sliced Black Forest ham: For a smoky, tender meat flavor that melts beautifully.
• 6 slices provolone cheese: Cut in half, offering a mild, creamy melt that balances the other flavors.
• Quarter cup honey mustard: For a tangysweet spread that ties the layers together. You can use a good quality store brand.
• Two tablespoons mayonnaise: Optional to add creaminess and mellow acidity in the sauce.
• Three tablespoons unsalted butter: Melted, to brush the tops for a golden finish.
• Half teaspoon garlic powder: For subtle savory notes in the butter topping.
• One teaspoon sesame seeds: To add crunch and visual appeal when baked.
• Toothpicks: For easy serving and holding sliders together.

Instructions

Prepare the Pretzel Buns:

Slice each mini pretzel bun horizontally using a sharp serrated knife to get clean even cuts. If possible keep the halves attached slightly to help with assembly. This step ensures the sliders hold well without falling apart when loaded.

Mix the Sauce:

In a small bowl combine honey mustard with mayonnaise if you want a creamier spread. Stir until smooth. The mayo helps tame the sharpness but feel free to leave it out for a bolder mustard flavor.

Layer the Fillings:

Spread the honey mustard mixture on the cut sides of the bun. Add about two slices of ham on the bottom half, then place half a slice of provolone cheese on top of the ham. Replace the top bun carefully.

Prepare the Butter Topping:

In another small bowl mix the melted butter with garlic powder and sesame seeds. This mixture adds a glossy golden finish and deeper flavor when baked.

Bake the Sliders:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius. Place the assembled sliders side by side in a baking dish or rimmed sheet pan but leave a small gap between each for heat circulation. Cover loosely with foil. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes until the cheese melts and the buns are warmed through. For extra browning uncover and bake for 2 to 3 more minutes.

Serve:

Use toothpicks to secure each slider before serving to keep them together. Serve immediately to enjoy the gooey cheese, warm ham, and crisp pretzel tops at their best.

My favorite part is brushing the butter mixture on top before baking. It creates such a beautiful glossy brown and seals in flavor. I remember my first batch when the smell filled the whole kitchen and the kids kept sneaking little bites before the party even started.

Storage Tips

Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet covered with foil and warm in a 350 degree oven for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as the pretzel buns can become tough or soggy. If possible, brush a little extra melted butter on top before reheating for freshness.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap Black Forest ham with smoked ham for deeper smoky notes that pair well with mustard. Try honey ham to enhance the sweet profile, especially if you like sweeter bites that balance the provolone cheese. Use Swiss cheese instead of provolone to bring a nuttier, slightly sweet flavor and a silkier melt which adds decadence.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders shine alongside tangy coleslaw or a refreshing German potato salad to complement their savory richness. A crisp pilsner beer is a perfect beverage match bringing balance to the meal. For a creative twist, add a dollop of fig or cranberry jam beneath the cheese for a sophisticated sweet and savory contrast that elevates every bite.

These sliders are an easy crowd pleaser that reheats well and can be customized to taste. Serve them warm and enjoy.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ How do I keep sliders warm for serving?

Cover sliders loosely with foil and place in a warm oven (about 200°F/90°C), or use a slow cooker set to warm with a paper towel between lid and sliders to avoid sogginess.

→ Can sliders be prepared in advance?

Yes, assemble without the butter topping, refrigerate up to 24 hours, then add butter mixture and bake just before serving to ensure freshness.

→ What if pretzel slider buns aren’t available?

Use regular mini slider buns or soft dinner rolls brushed with baking soda solution and baked briefly to mimic pretzel texture and flavor.

→ How can I add heat to these sliders?

Add pickled jalapeño slices under the ham or mix hot honey into the mustard spread for a spicy-sweet kick.

→ What’s the best way to get a crispy top on sliders?

Uncover the sliders for the last few minutes of baking or briefly broil, watching closely to avoid burning for a crunchy, golden finish.