Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders
Growing up, every summer meant fishing trips with my dad out of Racine, Wisconsin. On some days, we’d head out on “The HABIT,” my dad’s friend Grandpa Kenny’s boat. I’ll never forget the meaning behind that name—“How About Boat Insurance Today”—or the feeling of heading down into the galley to make ham and cheese sandwiches with yellow mustard for everyone. Even today, whenever I make a ham and cheese sandwich, I’m transported back to those early mornings on Lake Michigan. This slider recipe is a bougie take on those galley sandwiches—hot, cheesy, smoky, and soaked in a buttery garlic-chive glaze. It’s built on those same memories but dressed for a party.
Racine, WI Inspired Hot Ham, Bacon, and Swiss Sliders
Glenn Connaughton
12 Sliders
15 minutes
90 minutes
370
American
Main Dish
These sliders take the classic ham and cheese sandwich and turn it into something unforgettable. Soft brioche buns are filled with layers of thick-cut deli ham, crispy bacon, and creamy Swiss cheese, all finished with a rich garlic-chive butter glaze that soaks into every bite. Baked or smoked until golden and melty, these sliders pack the kind of flavor that makes you stop and savor. Inspired by childhood memories on the water, they bring comfort food to the table in a way that’s both nostalgic and elevated.
Ingredients
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- Brioche slider buns (12-count)
- 12 slices deli ham
- 8 slices bacon, cooked until crispy
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- Dijon mustard, for spreading
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- 1½ sticks unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- ¼ cup minced onion
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions
- Build the Sliders: Cut the slider buns in half horizontally. Spread Dijon mustard on the bottom halves, then layer on the ham, bacon, and Swiss cheese. Place the top buns back on.
- Prep the Pan: Transfer the assembled sliders to a baking dish or foil pan. Use a skewer or fork to poke holes in the tops of each bun so the glaze can soak in.
- Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, garlic, onion, Worcestershire sauce, chives, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
- Soak and Chill: Brush the sauce generously over the tops of the sliders, making sure it drips into the holes. Cover with foil and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- Bake or Smoke: Preheat oven or smoker to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake covered for 20 to 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking until the tops are golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot and melty straight from the pan. These sliders are best enjoyed fresh from the oven or smoker.
