Welcome to the ultimate guide for crafting the most irresistibly delicious Ham and Cheese Sliders, famously known as Funeral Sandwiches! This iconic dish, beloved for its comforting flavors and incredible ease of preparation, is a true crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Whether you’re looking for a clever way to utilize leftover holiday ham or simply craving a savory, sweet, and cheesy delight, these sliders are your answer. Simple to assemble and bursting with flavor, they promise a memorable culinary experience.
Discover the Magic of Funeral Sandwiches: The Ultimate Ham and Cheese Sliders
There’s a reason why these delightful little sandwiches have earned such a dedicated following. Known by many names, most commonly Ham and Cheese Sliders or the more intriguing Funeral Sandwiches, this recipe offers a perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and incredible taste. They’re exceptionally versatile, serving beautifully as an appetizer, a party snack, a light lunch, or even a comforting dinner. The unique combination of fluffy sweet rolls, savory ham, melty Swiss cheese, and a tangy-sweet butter sauce creates an explosion of flavors that is truly addictive.
For those who frequently find themselves with an abundance of leftover ham after festive holidays like Christmas or Easter, this recipe is a godsend. Instead of mundane repetitions, transform your holiday roast into something fresh and exciting. These sliders make meal planning stress-free and delicious, ensuring that no flavorful morsel goes to waste. The recipe is also incredibly adaptable, easily made with high-quality deli ham, making it a year-round favorite.
My husband, for instance, is absolutely enamored with these ham and Swiss sliders. While Swiss cheese offers a classic and undeniably delicious pairing with ham, the beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. Don’t let a preference for a different cheese stop you – feel free to experiment! We’ll dive into various cheese options and other substitutions later in this guide.
The name “Funeral Sandwiches” often sparks curiosity. It’s said to be a regional moniker, primarily used in parts of the American South and Midwest, due to their popularity as an easy-to-prepare, comforting dish often brought to post-funeral gatherings. They require minimal effort to assemble and can be made in advance, making them an ideal choice for such somber occasions, or indeed, any event where ease and deliciousness are paramount. Have you heard this term used before? Regardless of what you call them, these sliders are guaranteed to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Essential Ingredients for Epic Ham and Cheese Sliders
Crafting these legendary sliders requires only a handful of simple, readily available ingredients. The magic truly happens when these components come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures.
Slider Components:
- Hawaiian Sweet Rolls (or Dinner Rolls): The foundation of our sliders! King’s Hawaiian Rolls are highly recommended for their signature sweetness and soft, fluffy texture, which beautifully complements the savory fillings. Any quality dinner roll can be substituted, but the Hawaiian rolls add a special touch.
- Ham: The star of the show. You can use leftover holiday ham, thinly sliced deli ham (like Black Forest or honey ham), or even thick-cut ham steak, diced. The choice depends on your preference and what you have on hand.
- Swiss Cheese Slices: A classic pairing with ham. Swiss cheese melts beautifully, adding a creamy, slightly nutty flavor that enhances the overall experience. However, don’t hesitate to explore other cheese options for a different flavor profile.
Signature Butter Sauce Ingredients:
This savory-sweet sauce is what truly elevates these sliders from good to extraordinary. It infuses the rolls with flavor and helps create that irresistible golden-brown crust.
- Butter: Melted butter is the base, carrying all the delicious flavors.
- Brown Sugar: Adds a delightful sweetness that caramelizes slightly during baking.
- Dijon Mustard: Provides a crucial tangy, slightly pungent kick that cuts through the richness of the ham and cheese, balancing the sweetness of the rolls and brown sugar.
- Worcestershire Sauce: A secret weapon for depth of flavor, adding umami and a subtle savory complexity.
Optional Enhancements:
- Onion Powder: For a subtle savory onion flavor.
- Poppy Seeds: Often sprinkled on top for a classic look and a delicate nutty crunch.
- Pickles: Small gherkins or dill pickle slices can be added inside the sandwiches for a burst of briny freshness.
Ingredient Flexibility:
Cheese Alternatives: If Swiss isn’t your favorite, these sliders are equally delicious with sharp cheddar, creamy provolone, smoky gouda, or even Monterey Jack for a milder profile. The key is a cheese that melts well.
Rolls Choices: While King’s Hawaiian Rolls are our top recommendation for their unique sweetness and texture, any soft dinner rolls can be used. Consider brioche rolls for an extra rich flavor or potato rolls for a tender bite.
Recommended Equipment for Easy Preparation
You won’t need any specialized gadgets for this recipe; just basic kitchen tools will suffice to bring these delicious sliders to life.
- Whisk: Essential for combining the butter sauce ingredients smoothly.
- Small Bowl: For mixing the butter sauce.
- Serrated Knife: Ideal for cleanly slicing the Hawaiian rolls without tearing them, ensuring a neat presentation.
- Non-Stick Cooking Spray: To prepare your baking dish and prevent sticking.
- 8×8 Baking Dish / Casserole Dish: The perfect size for a standard batch of 12 sliders, ensuring they bake evenly and create a cohesive casserole. A larger dish can be used for more servings.
- Plastic Wrap: Crucial for wrapping the baking dish during the marination period, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
For added kitchen safety, especially when handling hot dishes, consider investing in heat-resistant potholders. Accidents can happen quickly in the kitchen, and silicone or other heat-resistant options offer a safer alternative to cloth, preventing potential fire hazards and ensuring peace of mind while baking.
The Importance of Marination: A Flavor Secret
One of the key steps that sets these Funeral Sandwiches apart is the marination period. After assembly, the sandwiches need to rest for at least an hour, and can even be refrigerated for up to 24 hours. This allows the butter sauce to thoroughly soak into the Hawaiian rolls, infusing them with its irresistible sweet and tangy flavors. The bread becomes perfectly moist and tender, and the flavors of the ham, cheese, and sauce meld together harmoniously. This make-ahead capability is fantastic for party planning, allowing you to prepare them well in advance and simply pop them into the oven when your guests arrive.
Crafting Your Ham and Cheese Sliders: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
While the full detailed recipe is provided below, here’s a quick overview to guide you through making these delightful sliders.
Step 1: Prepare the Brown Sugar Mustard Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This is the heart of the slider’s flavor!
Step 2: Assemble the Funeral Rolls
- Begin by lightly spraying your baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Then, drizzle about 3-4 tablespoons of the prepared mustard sauce into the bottom of the dish, tilting the pan to ensure an even coating. This layer will soak into the bottom rolls, adding incredible flavor and preventing them from drying out.
- Using a serrated knife, carefully split the entire slab of Hawaiian rolls horizontally, separating the tops from the bottoms while keeping them connected. Place the bottom halves of the rolls evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Cover the bottom rolls with half of your Swiss cheese slices, creating an even layer.
- Next, layer the ham slices evenly over the Swiss cheese. For the best flavor and texture, aim for about ¾ to 1 pound of ham for 12 sliders.
- Top the ham with the remaining Swiss cheese slices, ensuring generous coverage.
- Carefully place the top halves of the Hawaiian rolls back onto the sandwiches.
- Pour the remaining brown sugar mustard sauce evenly over the tops of the assembled sliders. Ensure every roll is coated to achieve that signature golden, caramelized crust.
- If desired, sprinkle poppy seeds over the tops of the rolls now. They add a lovely visual appeal and a subtle nutty flavor.
- Tightly wrap the baking pan with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally, 2 to 4 hours, and up to 24 hours, to allow the flavors to fully meld and the rolls to absorb the sauce.
- When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the plastic wrap from the baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown, the cheese is bubbly and melted, and the ham is heated through. Keep a close eye on them after 15 minutes to prevent burning.
Preparation and Storage Insights
The make-ahead nature of these sliders is one of their greatest advantages, making entertaining a breeze. Understanding how to properly store and reheat them ensures you can enjoy them anytime.
Make Ahead and Marination: As mentioned, these sliders thrive with a good marination period. Preparing them an hour to a day in advance allows the rolls to soak up the savory-sweet sauce, resulting in maximum flavor. Simply cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
Freezing and Storage: Ham and cheese sliders are surprisingly freezer-friendly! To freeze, ensure they are completely cooled after baking. You can freeze them as individual portions or as a whole tray of leftovers. Wrap each slider or the entire tray tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn. They can be safely stored in the freezer for 3 to 6 months.
Reheating Instructions: To enjoy your frozen Funeral Sandwiches, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. This allows them to cook evenly when reheated. For best results, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 20 minutes, or until golden and melty. Individual portions can also be effectively reheated in an air fryer oven for a quicker, crispier result.
Recipe Variations to Inspire Your Culinary Creativity
One of the best aspects of Funeral Sandwiches is how easily they can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
Cheese Substitutions: While Swiss cheese is a classic, feel free to experiment. Cheddar cheese offers a sharper, tangier note, while provolone provides a milder, stretchier melt. For a smoky twist, try smoked gouda or even pepper jack if you like a little heat.
Roll Alternatives: While King’s Hawaiian Rolls deliver that signature sweetness, you can use other soft dinner rolls. Brioche buns will add a buttery richness, and potato rolls offer a slightly denser, yet still tender, texture. You can also explore savory rolls if you prefer less sweetness.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options: It’s easy to adapt this recipe for plant-based diets. Swap out the ham for your favorite plant-based ham slices or even thinly sliced smoked tofu or tempeh. For a vegan version, replace butter with a plant-based butter alternative, Swiss cheese with vegan cheese slices, and ensure your rolls are dairy and egg-free (King’s Hawaiian rolls contain butter and eggs, so look for a suitable vegan dinner roll or bake your own).
Gluten-Free Adaptation: For those avoiding gluten, the main change will be the rolls. King’s Hawaiian Rolls are not gluten-free, so opt for a quality gluten-free dinner roll. Many excellent brands are available, or for the ambitious home baker, numerous homemade gluten-free Hawaiian roll recipes exist online.
Smaller or Larger Servings: Easily adjust the recipe by using a smaller baking dish for fewer servings or by scaling up the ingredients and using a larger dish (or multiple dishes) to feed a bigger crowd. Simply adjust the ingredient quantities proportionally.
Add a Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce (like Sriracha or Tabasco) to your butter sauce mixture, or swap regular Dijon for a spicy brown mustard.
Herbaceous Touches: A sprinkle of garlic powder or dried minced onion in the butter sauce can add another layer of savory flavor. Fresh chopped chives or parsley sprinkled on top after baking also add freshness and color.
Beyond Ham: While ham is traditional, this recipe works wonderfully with other meats. Consider using thinly sliced roast turkey for Cranberry Turkey Sliders, or even thinly sliced roast beef with provolone for a “French Dip” inspired slider.
Sugar-Free Considerations: This recipe, as written, contains 7 grams of sugar per serving, primarily from the brown sugar and Hawaiian rolls. If sugar intake is a concern, check the nutrition labels of your ingredients and consider using sugar substitutes in the butter sauce and opting for lower-sugar bread options if available.
Expert Tips for the Best Ham and Cheese Sliders
Achieve perfection with your Funeral Sandwiches every time by keeping these helpful tips in mind:
- Poppy Seed Preference: Poppy seeds are a common topping, adding a nutty crunch and classic visual appeal. However, if you or your guests have seed allergies or dietary restrictions, they can be easily omitted without compromising flavor. If you do include them, sprinkle them generously over the butter sauce before baking.
- Mustard Matters: While Dijon mustard provides a sophisticated tang, yellow mustard can be used as a substitute if preferred, particularly for those with seed sensitivities, as some Dijon varieties contain whole or ground mustard seeds.
- Ham Selection: Both leftover holiday ham and high-quality deli ham work wonderfully. Leftover ham can be sliced or shredded, offering a heartier texture. Deli ham provides a consistent, thinner slice which can be nice for layering. Experiment to find your favorite!
- Cheese Versatility: Sliced or shredded Swiss cheese can be used. Pre-sliced cheese offers convenience, while shredded cheese can sometimes melt more evenly and create a more integrated layer. Use what you have on hand or what you prefer.
- Pre-cutting Rolls for Easy Serving: For effortless serving, gently pull apart or lightly score the individual Hawaiian rolls with a knife before baking. This ensures they remain connected during baking but are easy to separate and serve warm. Alternatively, you can slice the entire sheet of rolls in half, assemble, and then cut into individual portions after baking.
- Embrace Customization: This recipe is incredibly forgiving and adaptable. Don’t hesitate to adjust the quantities of cheese or ham to your liking. If you crave extra cheesy goodness or a double layer of ham, go for it! The goal is to create sliders that you and your loved ones will adore, using ingredients readily available in your kitchen.
- Preventing Sogginess: Ensure you don’t over-drench the rolls with sauce. While the marination is key, too much liquid can make the bottoms soggy. A good coating on the pan and tops is sufficient.
- Achieving a Crispy Top: For an extra crispy, golden-brown crust, you can briefly place the sliders under the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the very end of baking, watching them carefully to prevent burning.
What to Serve Alongside Your Funeral Sandwiches
These delightful sliders pair well with a variety of side dishes, complementing their rich flavors and making for a complete meal or a satisfying spread for a party.
Perfect Side Dishes:
For fresh balance, consider a crisp Watermelon Salad or Grape Salad. For something heartier and comforting, explore Easy and Delicious Broccoli Casserole, Easy Cheesy Green Beans, or a creamy Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams. BLT Pasta Salad, Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish, Pear Salad, Sauerkraut Salad, and Creamed Corn Casserole are also excellent choices.
Complementary Main Dishes (if serving as an appetizer):
If sliders are an appetizer, they pair well with comforting mains like Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese, Easy Macaroni Salad, Wilted Spinach Bacon Pasta, Crockpot Cabbage Rolls, or Crockpot Mushroom Pasta Casserole.
Sweet Endings (Desserts):
Conclude your meal with a delightful dessert such as Easy 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars, fruity Bisquick Blackberry Cobbler or Bisquick Peach Cobbler, a refreshing Delicious Easy Fruit Salad, or a classic Marbled Cherry Pie Cake.
Refreshing Drinks:
Quench your thirst with homemade favorites like Crockpot McDonald’s Sweet Tea, a vibrant CopyCat Sonic Ocean Water, the sweet and tangy Red Robin Freckled Lemonade, a fun Coke Slushie, or a zesty CopyCat Sonic Cherry Limeade.
When to Serve These Crowd-Pleasing Sliders
The beauty of Funeral Sandwiches lies in their versatility. They are perfect for almost any occasion where you need an easy-to-prepare, universally loved dish:
- Potlucks and Gatherings: Their make-ahead nature and casserole-style baking make them ideal for sharing.
- Picnics and Outdoor Events: Easy to transport and serve, they’re a picnic essential.
- Holiday Celebrations: A staple for Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day, or any time a festive, fuss-free bite is needed.
- Post-Holiday Meals: After Christmas or Easter, they offer a fantastic way to transform leftover ham into another delightful meal.
- Game Day or Movie Night: An effortless snack that always disappears fast!
Creative Ideas for Leftover Ham Recipes
Beyond these sensational sliders, ham leftovers offer a treasure trove of possibilities to create new, exciting meals.
- Ham and Bean Soup: A hearty and comforting classic perfect for chilly days.
- Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese with Ham: Elevate your favorite cheesy pasta with savory ham pieces.
- Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Grits: A Southern comfort food staple, made even easier in the slow cooker.
- Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes and Ham: A delightful casserole combining tender potatoes, rich cheese, and flavorful ham.
- Ham and Swiss Ciabatta Sandwich: A gourmet sandwich experience with a creamy garlic aioli.
- Slow Cooker Ham Casserole: A creamy, cheesy, and incredibly easy casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Whether you’re hosting a party, feeding your family, or simply looking for an easy yet impressive dish, these Funeral Sandwiches, or Ham and Cheese Sliders, are an absolute winner. Their irresistible combination of sweet and savory flavors, coupled with their incredible ease of preparation, ensures they’ll become a cherished recipe in your kitchen for years to come. Enjoy the deliciousness!
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Funeral Sandwiches AKA Ham and Cheese Sliders
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Ingredients
Brown Sugar Mustard Sauce
- ½ cup Butter Melted
- 2 Tablespoon Brown Sugar
- 2 Tablespoon Dijon Mustard
- 3 Tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
Funeral Rolls
- 12 Hawaiian Rolls 1 package
- ¾-1 pound Ham
- 8 oz Swiss Cheese
- Poppy Seeds Optional
Instructions
Brown Sugar Mustard Sauce
- Whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire Sauce until combined.
Funeral Rolls
- Spray baking dish with non-stick spray. Then drizzle 3-4 tablespoons of mustard sauce in the baking dish and move around to coat the bottom.
- Split Hawaiian Rolls and place the bottom rolls in the pan. Cover in half of the swiss cheese
- Cover swiss cheese with ham and then top with remaining swiss cheese.
- Place top buns on top of sandwiches, cover with remaining mustard brown sugar sauce.
- If you are adding poppy seeds sprinkle them over the top now.
- Wrap the baking pan in plastic wrap tightly and refrigerate for 1 to 24 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees when you are ready to bake the Funeral Sandwiches.
- Remove plastic wrap and bake for 15-20 minutes until the tops are golden brown. Make sure to check them at 15 minutes so they do not burn.
Kitchen Tools
- 8X8 Pan
Nutrition
Calories from Fat 180