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
Scale
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.
