
Honey mustard ham and cheese on pretzel sliders are the ultimate easy crowdpleaser for any casual gathering. These sliders combine soft pretzel buns with savory Black Forest ham, melty provolone cheese, and a tangy honey mustard spread that’s both comforting and exciting. Their simplicity means you can whip them up quickly while still impressing guests with rich flavors and perfect textures.
I first made these during a big game day party and they disappeared within minutes. Now they’re a goto for any event where finger foods are needed.
Ingredients
- 12 mini pretzel slider buns: made for that signature chewy, slightly salty crust
- 1 pound of thinly sliced Black Forest ham: provides a smoky, lightly sweet flavor that balances the tangy mustard
- 6 slices of provolone cheese: sliced in half for easy melting and mild creaminess
- Quarter cup of honey mustard: the heart of the spread, offering sweetness and zest look for a quality brand with a good balance of ingredients
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: optional, adds creaminess and softens the mustard’s sharpness
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: melted to richly coat the tops and add flavor depth
- Half teaspoon garlic powder: brings a subtle savory kick
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds: for a nutty crunch and attractive topping
- Toothpicks: for serving, so these sliders are easy to enjoy without mess
Instructions
- Prepare the Pretzel Buns:
- Slice each mini pretzel slider bun horizontally using a sharp serrated knife. Try to keep the halves attached if possible to make assembling easier and keep the filling neatly inside.
- Mix the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine honey mustard with mayonnaise if you choose to use it. Stir until smooth and creamy. Mayonnaise adds extra richness that mellows the sharpness of the mustard.
- Layer the Fillings:
- Spread the honey mustard mixture evenly on the cut sides of the buns. Place about two slices of ham on each bottom bun half followed by half a slice of provolone cheese. Replace the top bun halves carefully to avoid squeezing out the filling.
- Prepare the Butter Topping:
- Mix melted butter with garlic powder and sesame seeds in a small bowl. This mixture will give a glossy, flavorful finish to the sliders. Brush or drizzle it generously over the tops of the assembled sliders.
- Bake the Sliders:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Arrange sliders in a baking dish or on a rimmed baking sheet with a little space between each to allow even heating. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 12 to 14 minutes until the cheese melts and sliders are warmed through. Uncover and bake for an additional 2 to 3 minutes if you want the tops extra browned and crisp.
- Serve:
- Insert a toothpick into each slider for easy serving. Enjoy immediately for the best soft, melty, and warm experience with crisped pretzel tops.

One of my favorite parts of this recipe is the pretzel buns. Their salty, chewy texture contrasts beautifully with the sweet honey mustard and smoky ham. I often remember making these for a holiday gathering where everyone kept going back for more, their smiles growing bigger with each bite.
Storage Tips
To keep sliders fresh, cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to two days before baking. If baked ahead, warm gently in the oven before serving to refresh the crust crispness. Avoid microwaving as it softens the pretzel buns too much.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap Black Forest ham for smoked ham for a deeper, woodsy flavor that pairs amazingly with the honey mustard. Honey ham works well too, adding a sweeter profile that complements the tang and cheese. Swiss cheese can replace provolone for a melt that is silky and nutty, adding another flavorful dimension.
Serving Suggestions
For a fun twist, spread a small amount of fig or cranberry jam underneath the cheese. The fruitiness brightens the savory slider and adds elegance for a party crowd. Serve these sliders alongside German potato salad or a tangy coleslaw and a crisp pilsner beer to round out the meal perfectly.

Warm and serve immediately for the best soft, melty texture. They are a guaranteed crowdpleaser.
Your Recipe Questions Answered
- → How can I keep the sliders warm for a party?
After baking, cover sliders loosely with foil and keep in a warm oven around 200°F (90°C). Alternatively, use a slow cooker on warm with a paper towel under the lid to prevent sogginess.
- → Can I make the sliders ahead of time?
Yes, assemble sliders without the butter topping and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Brush with butter mixture and bake just before serving for fresh taste and texture.
- → What can I use if I can't find pretzel slider buns?
Substitute with regular mini slider buns or soft dinner rolls brushed with a baking soda solution and baked briefly to mimic the pretzel crust.
- → How can I add more heat or spice?
Add sliced pickled jalapeños under the ham or mix a bit of hot honey into the mustard spread for a spicy-sweet flavor boost.
- → What is the best way to make the sliders crispier on top?
Uncover sliders during the last few minutes of baking or briefly broil while watching carefully to avoid burning for a crunchy, golden top.