If you’re craving something irresistibly flavorful yet wonderfully simple, the Canadian Bacon and Havarti Cheese Sliders with Pesto Glaze Recipe is about to become your new go-to. These sliders are an absolute celebration of bold, savory ingredients balanced with a fresh, herbaceous pesto glaze that’s brushed on top, creating a delightful combination of melty cheese, smoky Canadian bacon, and soft Hawaiian rolls. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just want a tasty snack that feels special, this recipe delivers maximum satisfaction with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, but each one plays a crucial role in making these sliders burst with flavor. From the rich butter that melds with fragrant pesto to the creamy Havarti that melts perfectly, every addition is essential to their signature taste and inviting texture.
- 1 stick butter (1/2 cup): Provides the luscious base that carries the pesto glaze and keeps the tops golden and crispy.
- 2 tablespoons pesto: Brings a vibrant herbal punch that brightens the entire sandwich.
- 1-3 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tangy kick that complements the savory Canadian bacon.
- 1 tablespoon dried minced onion: Imparts gentle sweetness and depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Gives a slight heat that lingers pleasantly on the palate.
- 1 package Hawaiian rolls (12 rolls): Their soft texture and natural sweetness perfectly cradle the sandwich filling.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Creates a creamy layer that binds the ingredients and adds moisture.
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional): Balances the mayo with a hint of sweetness for extra richness.
- 12-14 ounces Canadian bacon (about 24 small slices): The star protein of this slider, offering smoky and salty notes.
- 8 ounces sliced Havarti cheese: Melts beautifully for a smooth, buttery finish.
How to Make Canadian Bacon and Havarti Cheese Sliders with Pesto Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pesto Butter Mixture
Start by melting the butter halfway in a microwave-safe bowl; it should be mostly melted but still slightly solid to keep a great texture. Stir in the pesto, Dijon mustard, dried minced onion, and red pepper flakes. This mixture is the flavor powerhouse of your sliders, providing the perfect herbaceous and spicy glaze. Let it sit for a few minutes so all those flavors can marry beautifully while you prepare the rest of the sandwich.
Step 2: Preheat Oven and Split Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F which is just the right temperature for a gentle melt and crisp. Using a sharp serrated knife, carefully slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally – but don’t separate each roll; keep them together as a whole sheet to make assembly and baking much easier. Placing the bottom half on a rimmed baking sheet sets the stage for layering.
Step 3: Mix the Mayonnaise Spread
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and sugar. The sugar is optional but highly recommended because it gives the spread a slight sweetness that complements the salty Canadian bacon. If you prefer a straightforward mayo flavor, feel free to skip the sugar and just spread mayonnaise alone.
Step 4: Assemble the Sliders
Spread the mayo mixture onto the bottom half of the rolls. Then layer the Canadian bacon evenly across, ensuring every bite gets a generous portion of smoky meat. Top the bacon with the luscious slices of Havarti cheese, which will melt into a dreamy blanket of flavor in the oven. Place the top half of the rolls snugly on top.
Step 5: Glaze and Bake
Brush the pesto butter mixture evenly over the tops of the rolls, handing out those vibrant green, herby notes that make these sliders unforgettable. Cover them with aluminum foil sprayed with nonstick spray to keep the cheese from sticking, and bake for 12 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake an additional 2 to 5 minutes until the tops are nicely browned and crispy, being careful not to burn the bottoms. This browning step adds a perfect crunch and caramelized flavor.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once baked, use a sharp knife to slice the sliders into individual sandwiches. Serve them hot for the ultimate gooey cheese pull and let everyone enjoy the inviting aroma and glorious layers of flavor.
How to Serve Canadian Bacon and Havarti Cheese Sliders with Pesto Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these sliders just a little more, fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley on top add an extra pop of green and freshness, echoing the pesto glaze. A few thinly sliced cherry tomatoes on the side can also offer a juicy contrast that’s hard to resist.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with crisp coleslaw or a crunchy Caesar salad to add a touch of freshness and crunch alongside the soft and savory sliders. For something warm, consider serving with roasted sweet potato wedges or classic kettle-cooked chips for a fun and casual meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging these sliders on a large wooden board layered with parchment paper for a rustic, party-ready vibe. For a brunch setting, you can serve smaller slider bites on decorative picks alongside a bowl of dipping pesto or marinara sauce to add an interactive and fun element.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover sliders, wrap them tightly in foil or store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for an easy next-day meal or snack that tastes almost as good as freshly baked.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked assembled sliders by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed for fresh-from-the-oven goodness.
Reheating
Reheat leftover sliders in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F for about 10 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out, then uncover for a few minutes to re-crisp the top. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain their crispy and melty texture.
FAQs
Can I use regular ham instead of Canadian bacon?
Absolutely! While Canadian bacon has a unique smoky flavor and texture, regular ham or even prosciutto can be delicious alternatives. Just keep in mind the flavor intensity and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap out the Canadian bacon for grilled or roasted vegetables such as zucchini slices, mushrooms, or marinated eggplant. The Havarti and pesto glaze will still provide plenty of flavor.
What type of pesto works best for this recipe?
A classic basil pesto is ideal for this recipe because its fresh herbal flavor complements the smoky Canadian bacon and creamy cheese perfectly. You could also experiment with sun-dried tomato pesto for a flavorful twist.
Can I make smaller or larger batches?
Definitely! The recipe is versatile and can be scaled to suit your needs. Just maintain the ratios of ingredients and adjust the baking time slightly based on the size of your sliders or rolls.
What’s a good beverage pairing for these sliders?
These sliders pair wonderfully with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager beer. For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or cucumber for a refreshing balance.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the way the Canadian Bacon and Havarti Cheese Sliders with Pesto Glaze Recipe brings simple ingredients together to create an unforgettable bite. Whether it’s game day, a family gathering, or just a cozy night in, I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try. It’s comfort food meets gourmet in the best way, and I promise your taste buds will thank you.
Print
Canadian Bacon and Havarti Cheese Sliders with Pesto Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 6 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious Canadian Bacon and Havarti Cheese Sliders with a flavorful pesto glaze, layered on soft Hawaiian rolls and baked to golden perfection. These sliders are perfect for parties, gatherings, or a savory snack that combines melted cheese, savory ham, and a zesty butter-pesto topping.
Ingredients
Spread and Glaze
- 1 stick butter (1/2 cup)
- 2 tablespoons pesto
- 1–3 teaspoons Dijon mustard (to taste, used 1 teaspoon)
- 1 tablespoon dried minced onion (or fresh minced onion)
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Sliders
- 1 package Hawaiian rolls (12 rolls)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 12–14 ounces Canadian Bacon (about 24 small slices or your favorite ham)
- 8 ounces sliced Havarti cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, melt the butter halfway in the microwave for 40-60 seconds until mostly melted but still soft. Stir in pesto, Dijon mustard, minced onion, and red pepper flakes. Let the mixture thicken at room temperature or chill briefly while assembling the sliders.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the sliders.
- Slice the Rolls: Using a sharp serrated knife, carefully cut the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally without separating individual rolls. Place the bottom half of the rolls on a rimmed baking sheet or a 9×13-inch pan.
- Prepare the Mayonnaise Spread: Combine the mayonnaise and optional sugar in a small bowl to create a sweet mayo spread. This step can be skipped if preferred.
- Layer Fillings: Spread the mayonnaise mixture (if using) on the bottom half of the rolls, then layer the Canadian bacon evenly over them. Next, layer the Havarti cheese slices on top of the bacon.
- Replace the Top Rolls: Place the top half of the rolls over the layered fillings carefully.
- Apply Butter-Pesto Glaze: Spoon the butter-pesto mixture over the tops of the rolls and spread it evenly to cover all the bun tops.
- Cover for Baking: Cover the baking sheet with aluminum foil sprayed with nonstick cooking spray to prevent cheese from sticking to the foil during baking.
- Bake Covered: Bake the sliders covered at 350°F for 12 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the flavors to blend.
- Bake Uncovered for Crispness: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 2-5 minutes to brown and crisp the tops. Watch closely to ensure rolls do not burn and reach a desirable crisp texture.
- Slice and Serve: Using a sharp knife, cut the slider sandwich into individual portions and serve hot for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of Dijon mustard and red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level.
- The sugar in the mayo spread adds a nice balance of sweetness but can be omitted for a less sweet option.
- Use nonstick spray on the foil to prevent cheese sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Keep an eye on baking time after removing the foil to avoid burning the bottoms of the rolls.
- Hawaiian rolls work best for their sweetness and softness, complementing the savory ingredients.
- Sliders are best enjoyed fresh and hot right out of the oven for melty cheese and crispy tops.
