These Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Sliders are a quick and tasty treat! Soft rolls are filled with savory ham and gooey cheese, then crispy-edged thanks to the air fryer. Yum!
These little sandwiches are super fun to make, and I can never eat just one! I usually serve them at parties, and they disappear before I can say “sliders!” 😂
The best part? They’re so easy to throw together! Just layer everything, pop them in the air fryer, and voila! Perfect for a snack or game day munchies.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: Hawaiian rolls add a sweet touch and soft texture. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using sesame seed buns or even whole wheat sliders for a healthier option. Just be mindful that the flavor will change slightly.
Ham: While I love classic sliced ham, turkey or chicken deli meat works well for a lighter option. You can also try a vegetarian version using roasted vegetables, mushrooms, or even tofu for a twist.
Cheese: Swiss and cheddar are my favorites because they melt beautifully. If you prefer stronger flavors, gouda or pepper jack can add a nice kick. Vegan cheese is a great substitute if you’re avoiding dairy.
Butter Mixture: Unsalted butter is key for control over saltiness. You can swap it for olive oil or a vegan butter alternative for a dairy-free version. Adjust the garlic powder based on your taste—feel free to add more!
How Do You Ensure the Perfectly Golden Brown Sliders?
Achieving that golden brown top is all about the right technique with your butter mixture. It creates an amazing crust and extra flavor. First, make sure to brush it evenly over the tops of the buns.
- Melt the butter, then mix in mustard, poppy seeds, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Use a pastry brush to apply the mixture generously but evenly across the tops.
- Keep an eye on the sliders while cooking—your air fryer may cook faster than expected. If they start browning too much, you can cover with foil for the remainder of the cooking time.
How to Make Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (such as Hawaiian rolls)
- 12 slices of ham (or more, depending on preference)
- 12 slices of cheese (Swiss or cheddar works well)
For the Butter Mixture:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes total. You’ll spend around 5 minutes prepping and mixing your ingredients, then 8-10 minutes cooking in the air fryer. It’s quick and perfect for a delicious snack or meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
First, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your sliders cook evenly and get that perfect golden brown crust on top!
2. Prepare the Butter Mixture:
While your air fryer is heating up, melt the butter in a small bowl. Once melted, stir in the Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together until it’s well combined and set aside.
3. Assemble the Sliders:
Next, take your pack of slider buns and slice them in half horizontally, keeping them as one piece. Place the bottom half of the buns in a greased air fryer basket. Layer the ham slices evenly over the buns, followed by a layer of cheese on top of the ham.
4. Add the Top Half:
Now, place the top half of the slider buns over the cheese layer. This creates a delicious sandwich that will be full of flavor!
5. Brush on the Butter Mixture:
Using a brush, gently brush the melted butter mixture generously over the top of the buns. Make sure you cover them evenly so every bite has that tasty glaze!
6. Cook in the Air Fryer:
Carefully place the assembled sliders in the air fryer basket. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t overcook!
7. Slice and Serve:
Once they’re done, carefully remove the sliders from the air fryer and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Then, slice them apart and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious air fryer ham and cheese sliders!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss and cheddar are great options, feel free to experiment with your favorites like pepper jack for a kick, or mozzarella for a mild flavor. Just make sure the cheese melts well to create that gooey texture!
What Can I Substitute for Dijon Mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard on hand, you can use yellow mustard, honey mustard, or even a splash of vinegar for some tang. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference, as some substitutes can be stronger in flavor.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes until warmed through to revive that crispy texture!
Can I Prep These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the slider assembly in advance! Assemble the sliders and brush them with the butter mixture, then cover and refrigerate. Just pop them into the air fryer when you’re ready to cook! You might need to add a couple of minutes to the cooking time if they are cold from the fridge.
