Baked ham and cheese party sandwiches are a quintessential crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a casual get-together, game day, or a family celebration. These sandwiches are easy to prepare, can be made in advance, and are always a hit with both kids and adults. The combination of savory ham, melted cheese, and a buttery, slightly sweet topping makes them irresistible. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through creating these delicious sandwiches, ensuring they become a staple at your parties and events.
Ingredients for Baked Ham and Cheese Party Sandwiches:
For the sandwiches:
- 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls
- 1 pound thinly sliced ham
- 12 slices Swiss cheese (or your preferred cheese)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
For the topping:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
How to Make Baked Ham and Cheese Party Sandwiches:
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the rolls:
- Without separating the rolls, slice the entire package in half horizontally. This will create a top and bottom layer of rolls. Place the bottom layer in the prepared baking dish.
- Assemble the sandwiches:
- Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise and Dijon mustard on the cut side of the bottom layer of rolls. Layer the ham evenly over the rolls, followed by the slices of Swiss cheese. Place the top layer of rolls over the cheese to complete the sandwiches.
- Make the topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, and poppy seeds. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Add the topping:
- Pour the butter mixture evenly over the assembled sandwiches, ensuring that the tops of the rolls are well-coated.
- Bake the sandwiches:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the tops of the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Once baked, remove the sandwiches from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Use a sharp knife to cut them into individual sandwiches along the pre-cut lines of the rolls. Serve warm and enjoy!
About the Main Ingredients:
- Hawaiian Sweet Rolls: These rolls are known for their soft, fluffy texture and slightly sweet flavor, making them an ideal choice for these party sandwiches. The sweetness of the rolls complements the savory ham and cheese, creating a perfect balance of flavors. If you can’t find Hawaiian sweet rolls, any soft dinner roll will work as a substitute.
- Ham: Thinly sliced ham is the star protein in these sandwiches. It’s important to choose a high-quality ham with a good balance of flavor and texture. You can use honey ham, smoked ham, or black forest ham, depending on your preference. For a variation, you can also try using turkey or roast beef.
- Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese is a classic pairing with ham, offering a mild, nutty flavor that melts beautifully. However, you can experiment with other types of cheese such as cheddar, provolone, or mozzarella, depending on your taste preferences. The key is to choose a cheese that melts well and complements the ham.
- Mayonnaise and Dijon Mustard: These condiments add creaminess and tang to the sandwiches, enhancing the overall flavor profile. The mayonnaise provides a smooth texture, while the Dijon mustard adds a bit of sharpness and depth. You can adjust the ratio of mayonnaise to mustard according to your taste or even add a bit of honey mustard for a sweeter twist.
- Butter Topping: The butter mixture that is poured over the sandwiches before baking is what sets these party sandwiches apart. The combination of melted butter, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, and poppy seeds creates a rich, flavorful glaze that seeps into the rolls, adding an extra layer of deliciousness. The brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness, while the Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce provide a tangy and savory kick. The poppy seeds and onion powder add texture and a hint of flavor.
Tips for Perfect Baked Ham and Cheese Party Sandwiches:
- Make Ahead: One of the best things about these sandwiches is that they can be made ahead of time. Simply assemble the sandwiches, pour the butter mixture over them, cover with foil, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This makes them a convenient option for busy hosts or for bringing to potlucks.
- Customize: Feel free to customize these sandwiches to suit your preferences. Add sliced pickles, caramelized onions, or a sprinkle of your favorite herbs for extra flavor. You can also try different types of meat and cheese combinations to create new variations.
- Serving Size: This recipe makes 12 sandwiches, but you can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Simply use a larger baking dish or multiple dishes and adjust the quantities of the ingredients accordingly.
- Storage: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.
Baked ham and cheese party sandwiches are a delicious, easy-to-make appetizer that is sure to be a hit at any event. The combination of soft, sweet rolls, savory ham, melted cheese, and a buttery topping makes them irresistible. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a tasty snack, these sandwiches are the perfect choice.
