FoodLatestRecipe

Ham Delights

Michele , ,

Experience the quintessential Southern gathering staple with a modern twist—introducing our revamped Ham Delights. Elevating this classic appetizer, we’ve infused rich Gouda cheese and a dash of everything bagel seasoning for a flavor-packed punch.

These individual-sized sandwiches, cherished by guests of all ages, seamlessly enhance tailgates, girls’ nights, and neighborhood get-togethers. With just 10 minutes of hands-on preparation, this dish is a party menu essential. Even if your friends are familiar with Ham Delights, prepare to be asked about the secret behind your exceptionally flavorful version.

Pro tip: Time your recipe prep and baking to ensure your guests savor the sandwiches fresh out of the oven. Consider doubling the batch—this crowd-pleaser tends to disappear quickly.

Ingredients for Ham Delights:

  • Cooking spray: For easy bun removal from the baking dish.
  • Mayonnaise: A luscious spread blended with Dijon mustard, pure maple syrup, and flaky sea salt to top the buns before filling.
  • Dijon mustard: Imparts a pungent flavor that complements the ham and cheese.
  • Pure maple syrup: Infuses a subtle sweetness to elevate the flavor of the buns.
  • Flaky sea salt: Adds a delicate crunch of salty goodness; can be substituted with kosher salt.
  • Hawaiian dinner rolls: Perfectly sweet and tender; other bun varieties, sweet, savory, or plain, can be used.
  • Deli ham slices: Opt for your preferred meat without breaking the bank.
  • Gouda cheese slices: Freshly sliced from the deli counter for the ultimate meltiness.
  • Unsalted butter: Melted to glaze the buns for additional richness and adherence for the topping.
  • Everything bagel seasoning: Infuses flavor, texture, and an appealing presentation; can be swapped with poppy seeds, sesame seeds, or a mix of flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

How to Make Ham Delights:

Essentially creating a giant sandwich, these cheesy rolls come together with less than 10 minutes of hands-on time. Follow the detailed instructions below for a delicious outcome:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F and coat a 13- x 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  2. Stir together mayonnaise, mustard, maple syrup, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
  3. Split rolls horizontally, spread mayo mixture on both cut sides, and arrange ham and cheese.
  4. Brush with butter, sprinkle seasoning, transfer to baking dish, cover, and bake for 8 minutes.
  5. Remove foil and bake until golden brown, 5 to 7 minutes. Serve immediately.

Variations for Ham Delights:

Feel free to customize your sliders with these variations:

  • Cheese: Experiment with Swiss, provolone, white Cheddar, pepper Jack, or any preferred freshly sliced cheese.
  • Meat: Choose your favorite deli meat, from turkey to roast beef or chicken.
  • Bread: Substitute Hawaiian rolls with any soft, sweet roll or plain white buns.
  • Flavorings: Enhance the mayonnaise mixture with Worcestershire, dark brown sugar, spicy brown mustard, or onion/garlic powder for added flavor.
  • Add-ons: Incorporate sliced onion, pineapple, pickles, jalapeños, or other toppings before baking.
  • Toppings: Swap everything bagel seasoning with poppy seeds, sesame seeds, flaky sea salt, or freshly cracked black pepper.

Can I Make Ham Delights Ahead?

Assemble sliders up to Step 4 in advance, refrigerate wrapped for up to two days, and bring to room temperature before baking as directed. To reheat leftovers, cover and heat in a preheated 350°F oven or toaster oven until hot throughout.