Ham Cheese Sliders Quick

Section: Easy Appetizers and Side Dishes for Any Meal

These sliders combine soft pretzel buns with thinly sliced Black Forest ham, melted provolone cheese, and a tangy honey mustard spread for a satisfying savory bite. A buttery garlic topping with sesame seeds is brushed on top before baking, creating a glossy, flavorful crust. Perfect for gatherings, they are quick to prepare and bake, with tips to keep buns crisp and flavorful. Variations include smoked or honey ham and Swiss cheese substitutions to suit your tastes.

A chef smiles for the camera.
Brought to You By Ryan
Last modified on Fri, 10 Oct 2025 19:37:32 GMT
A plate of ham cheese sliders. Bookmark
A plate of ham cheese sliders. | palatablelife.com

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.
The image and the text is: Hamster.
The image and the text is: Hamster. | palatablelife.com

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.

A plate of ham cheese sliders.
A plate of ham cheese sliders. | palatablelife.com

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.

Ham Cheese Sliders Quick

Soft pretzel buns filled with savory ham, melty provolone, and tangy honey mustard in a quick meal.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Brought to You By: Ryan

Recipe Category: Appetizers and Sides

Skill Level: Perfect for Beginners

Culinary Inspiration: American

Yields: 12 Portion Size (12 mini pretzel sliders)

Dietary Preferences: ~

What You’ll Need

→ Buns

01 12 mini pretzel slider buns

→ Meat

02 1 lb thinly sliced Black Forest ham (approximately 24 slices)

→ Cheese

03 6 slices provolone cheese, cut in half

→ Sauce

04 1/4 cup honey mustard (store-bought)
05 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional)

→ Topping

06 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
07 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
08 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

→ Serving

09 Toothpicks for serving

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 01

Slice each mini pretzel slider bun horizontally, using a sharp serrated knife for clean cuts. Keep halves attached if possible for easier assembly.

Step 02

Combine honey mustard with mayonnaise if using, stirring until smooth to add creaminess and balance acidity.

Step 03

Spread honey mustard mixture on cut sides of buns. Place about two slices of ham and half a slice of provolone on the bottom halves, then replace the bun tops.

Step 04

Mix melted butter with garlic powder and sesame seeds. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the assembled sliders.

Step 05

Preheat oven to 350°F. Arrange sliders on a rimmed baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and bake 12 to 14 minutes until cheese melts and buns are warmed. Remove foil and bake 2 to 3 more minutes for browning if desired.

Step 06

Secure each slider with a toothpick for easy handling and serve immediately to enjoy gooey cheese, warm ham, and crisped pretzel tops.

Handy Tips

  1. To prevent soggy buns, toast cut sides lightly for 3 minutes before assembly.
  2. Arrange sliders with small gaps on the baking sheet for even melting and browning.
  3. Assemble up to 24 hours in advance; store covered and add butter topping just before baking.

Must-Have Tools

  • Sharp serrated knife
  • Rimmed baking sheet or baking dish
  • Small mixing bowls
  • Basting brush

Potential Allergens

Always review ingredient labels for allergens, and consult a professional if needed.
  • Contains dairy from provolone cheese
  • Contains gluten in pretzel buns
  • Contains eggs if mayonnaise is used
  • Contains sesame seeds

Nutritional Details (Per Portion)

Nutritional information is provided for reference and shouldn’t replace expert guidance.
  • Calories: 116
  • Fats: 7 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 3 grams
  • Proteins: 9 grams