Irresistible Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Sliders on Hawaiian Pretzel Rolls: Your Go-To Quick Recipe
Sliders are truly one of the most versatile and enjoyable mini-sandwiches you can make. They’re a guaranteed hit with kids, the perfect bite-sized snack for game day gatherings, and make for a wonderfully easy lunch or dinner any time of the week. This recipe takes the beloved classic and elevates it, featuring savory ham and melty Swiss cheese nestled in sweet and salty Hawaiian pretzel rolls, all brought to crispy, golden perfection in your air fryer in under 10 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Quick & Easy Slider Recipe
Forget your average ham and cheese sandwich! These sliders transform a simple concept into an irresistible treat that’s not only incredibly delicious but also fantastically convenient. Here’s why this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen:
- Effortless Preparation: With an air fryer, these sliders come together in literally minutes. From prep to plate, you’re looking at less than 10 minutes, making them ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Have leftover holiday ham from Christmas, Easter, or another special occasion? This recipe is a brilliant and delicious way to use it up, transforming it into something new and exciting.
- Versatile Ingredient Use: Don’t have leftover ham? No problem! High-quality deli ham works just as wonderfully, making this a recipe you can enjoy year-round.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of sweet Hawaiian pretzel rolls, savory ham, creamy Swiss cheese, and a tangy butter topping creates a symphony of flavors and textures that everyone will love. They’re soft, crispy, and packed with flavor.
- Kid-Friendly & Portable: Their small size makes them perfect for little hands, and they’re easy to pack for school lunches or picnics.
- Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether you need a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, an appetizer for a party, or a delicious addition to your game day spread, these sliders fit the bill perfectly.
Katie’s tip
If you’re a fan of these savory sliders, don’t miss out on our fantastic air fryer turkey sliders! They’re an excellent solution for Thanksgiving leftovers and equally quick to prepare.
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Essential Ingredients for Perfect Air Fryer Ham & Cheese Sliders
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful sliders. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need, along with insights into why each component is key to the overall flavor and texture:
- 1 package of Hawaiian Pretzel Slider Rolls (11 oz): These are the star of the show! The unique blend of sweet Hawaiian bread with a savory pretzel crust provides an incredible base that gets beautifully toasted and flavorful in the air fryer. Brands like King’s Hawaiian are perfect for this.
- 3 slices Spiral Ham (or about ½ pound deli ham): Whether you’re using up holiday leftovers or fresh deli slices, a good quality ham is crucial. Spiral ham offers a wonderful texture and often has a sweet glaze that complements the rolls. If using deli ham, choose a thinly sliced variety for easy layering.
- 4 slices Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese melts wonderfully and has a distinct nutty, slightly sweet flavor that pairs exceptionally well with ham. Its excellent melting properties ensure a gooey, satisfying center for each slider.
- 3 Tbsp Garlic Aioli: This adds a creamy, flavorful layer to the bottom bun. The garlic infusion brings an extra depth of savory taste that elevates the sandwich beyond a simple mayo.
- 1 Tbsp Butter, melted: Melted butter forms the base of our savory topping, ensuring the buns get a golden, crispy exterior and a rich flavor.
- ½ Tbsp Dijon Mustard: Dijon provides a sharp, tangy kick that cuts through the richness of the ham and cheese, adding a sophisticated layer of flavor to the butter mixture.
- ½ tsp Onion Powder: This subtle addition contributes a warm, aromatic sweetness that enhances the overall savory profile without overpowering other flavors.
- ½ tsp Worcestershire Sauce: A secret weapon for umami! Worcestershire sauce adds a complex, savory depth that brings all the flavors of the butter topping together.
Smart Ingredient Tips & Flavor Variations
Customize your sliders to your liking with these helpful tips and easy substitutions:
- Rolls Flexibility: If Hawaiian pretzel rolls aren’t available or you prefer a different flavor, feel free to use regular Hawaiian slider rolls (without the pretzel coating) or even your favorite non-Hawaiian dinner rolls.
- Cheese Alternatives: While Swiss is classic, cheddar cheese is an excellent substitute that also pairs beautifully with ham, offering a sharper, more familiar flavor. Provolone or Gruyere could also work well for a different twist.
- Aioli Shortcut: No garlic aioli on hand? No problem! Simply use regular mayonnaise and mix in about ½ tsp of garlic powder for a quick and easy garlic-infused spread.
- Enhance Your Sauce: If you opt for non-Hawaiian rolls, consider adding 1 tsp of brown sugar to your butter mixture to introduce a touch of sweetness that complements the ham. For extra texture and flavor, experiment with other seasonings like everything bagel mix, poppy seeds, or dried onion flakes. (Just a friendly note: we tend to skip the poppy seeds to avoid them getting stuck in our teeth!)
- Ham Options: While spiral ham is fantastic, any cooked ham, such as smoked ham or honey ham, can be used. For a richer flavor, consider a thinly sliced Black Forest ham.
Step-by-Step Guide: Making Hawaiian Pretzel Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Sliders
Creating these delightful sliders in your air fryer is incredibly simple. Follow these steps for perfectly golden and melty results every time:
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Begin by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking and a perfectly crispy exterior from the start.
- Prepare the Rolls: Carefully slice your Hawaiian pretzel slider rolls in half horizontally using a serrated knife to create distinct top and bottom bun halves. If your air fryer basket isn’t large enough to accommodate the entire loaf, vertically cut the rolls into smaller, manageable sections (e.g., groups of 3 or 4 sliders). This ensures they fit comfortably and cook evenly without overcrowding.
- Spread the Aioli: On the cut side of the bottom buns, generously and evenly spread 3 tablespoons of garlic aioli. This creamy layer adds moisture and a burst of savory flavor.
- Layer the Ham: Place the 3 slices of spiral ham (or deli ham) on top of the aioli, ensuring it’s evenly distributed across all the slider bottoms. Don’t worry if the ham overlaps slightly; it will cook down.
- Add the Cheese: Neatly place the Swiss cheese slices directly on top of the ham. Arrange them so that each slider section gets a good portion of cheese for maximum melty goodness.
- Prepare the Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and onion powder. Whisk them together until well blended. This mixture will give your sliders that signature golden crust and a boost of savory flavor.
- Brush Top Buns: Using a pastry brush (or a spoon), evenly brush the cut side of the top buns with the prepared butter mixture. Be thorough to ensure all parts of the bun get coated. Avoid brushing the top of the pretzel rolls to protect the pretzel salt.
- Assemble the Sliders: Carefully place the butter-brushed top buns on top of the cheese and ham layers to complete your sandwiches. Press down gently to ensure everything is securely in place.
- Load the Air Fryer: Transfer the assembled sliders into your preheated air fryer basket. Ensure there’s enough space around them for the hot air to circulate. If cooking in batches, avoid overcrowding the basket.
- Air Fry to Perfection: Cook the sliders on the air fry setting for 5-7 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Keep a close eye on them; cooking times can vary slightly depending on your specific air fryer model. You’re looking for the cheese to be gloriously melted and the buns to be beautifully golden and toasted.
- Serve Immediately: Once done, carefully remove the sliders from the air fryer. Using a sharp knife, cut them into individual slider sections if you haven’t already, and serve them hot. Enjoy the crispy, melty, and utterly delicious result!
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With Ham and Cheese Sliders
These savory air fryer ham and cheese sliders are delicious on their own, but they truly shine when paired with the right sides. Here are some fantastic options to complete your meal, whether you’re serving them for lunch, dinner, or as an appetizer:
- Grilled Pineapple: The sweet and tangy flavor of grilled pineapple offers a wonderful contrast to the savory ham and cheese, making it a refreshing side.
- Crispy Hash Browns: Whether homemade or from the freezer (like Trader Joe’s Hash Browns cooked in the air fryer), their crispy texture and potato goodness are a perfect match.
- Golden Onion Rings: The classic pairing of onion rings and sliders is always a winner. Their crunchy exterior and sweet onion interior are irresistible.
- Creamy Potato Salad: A cool, creamy potato salad offers a refreshing counterpoint to the warm, cheesy sliders.
- Zesty Pasta Salad: A vibrant pasta salad, perhaps with a vinaigrette dressing, adds a delightful texture and tangy flavor.
- Classic Potato Chips: Sometimes, simplicity is best. A bag of your favorite potato chips provides that satisfying crunch with minimal effort.
- Crispy Fries: From regular French fries to unique options like Butternut Squash Fries, fries are always a welcome addition.
- Comforting Mac and Cheese: For a hearty and indulgent meal, a side of creamy mac and cheese (or even Mac and Cheese Bites for extra fun) is an excellent choice.
- Tangy Macaroni Salad: Similar to potato salad, macaroni salad brings a refreshing, creamy, and slightly tangy element to the table.
- Classic Deviled Eggs: These elegant, creamy bites are a fantastic addition to any slider spread, adding a touch of sophistication.
- Crisp Coleslaw: The crunchy texture and tangy-sweet dressing of coleslaw provide a refreshing balance to the rich sliders.
- Dill Pickles: A simple side of dill pickles offers a zesty, briny crunch that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the ham and cheese.
- Fresh Green Salad: For a lighter option, a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is a great way to add some freshness and balance.
- Sweet Creamed Corn: The sweetness of creamed corn (or an Air Fryer Corn Casserole) pairs wonderfully with ham, making it a comforting side.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Ham & Cheese Sliders
How Long to Cook Ham and Cheese Sliders in the Air Fryer?
Ham and cheese sliders typically cook for about 5-8 minutes in an air fryer set to 350°F (175°C). The exact time can vary depending on several factors:
- Air Fryer Model and Wattage: Different air fryers have varying power and heating capabilities. A more powerful air fryer might cook them faster.
- Slider Fillings and Thickness: If you use thicker slices of ham or more cheese, it might take an extra minute or two for the cheese to fully melt and the ham to warm through.
- Desired Crispiness: If you prefer a very crispy bun, you might extend the cooking time slightly, but always keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Always check for melted cheese and a golden-brown bun as your indicators of readiness.
How to Reheat Sliders in the Air Fryer?
To reheat sliders in the air fryer, cook them for 3-5 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
For best results, especially if you want to prevent the buns from browning further, you can wrap the sliders loosely in aluminum foil before placing them in the air fryer basket. This helps steam the buns slightly while warming the filling. If you prefer a crispy exterior, reheat them uncovered. Always ensure the cheese is re-melted and the ham is hot.
Can Sliders Be Prepared the Day Before?
Yes, you can absolutely prepare sliders the day before to save time. However, there’s one crucial step to remember:
- Do NOT apply the butter mixture to the top buns when preparing ahead of time. Instead, assemble the bottom buns with the aioli, ham, and cheese. Place the top buns on without the butter.
- Store the assembled sliders (without the butter topping) in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Keep the butter mixture (melted butter, Dijon, Worcestershire, onion powder) separate, also in the refrigerator.
- Just before you’re ready to cook, allow the sliders to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. Then, whisk the butter mixture again (you might need to re-melt it if solidified) and brush it onto the top buns.
This method prevents the buns from becoming soggy during storage and ensures they toast up perfectly in the air fryer when it’s time to cook.
Can I Freeze Uncooked Ham and Cheese Sliders?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked ham and cheese sliders! This is a great meal prep strategy. To do so:
- Assemble the sliders with the aioli, ham, and cheese. Place the top buns on, but do NOT apply the butter mixture.
- Wrap the assembled (unbuttered) sliders tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil, or place them in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag.
- Freeze for up to 1-2 months.
- When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Then, proceed with brushing the butter mixture on the top buns and air frying as directed in the recipe.
Freezing them uncooked ensures the best texture when reheated.
Expert Tips for the Best Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Sliders
Achieve air fryer slider perfection with these professional tips and tricks:
- For Pull-Apart Sliders: If you prefer your sliders to be truly “pull-apart” rather than individually cut, make sure to trim your ham and cheese slices to fit the entire block of rolls before assembly. This way, when the cheese melts, it will bind the individual rolls just enough for that satisfying pull-apart effect.
- Preserving Pretzel Salt: A key detail for pretzel rolls – avoid adding the butter mixture directly to the very top (the pretzel-salted side) of the rolls. The moisture can dissolve or dilute the pretzel salt, diminishing that signature savory crunch. Brush the butter only on the cut-side of the top buns. If using regular Hawaiian rolls, you can brush butter on both sides.
- Batch Cooking for a Crowd: This recipe is incredibly easy to double, triple, or even quadruple to feed a larger group. Just remember to cook in batches if your air fryer basket isn’t large enough to accommodate all the sliders at once. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispiness.
- Know Your Air Fryer: Air fryer cooking times can vary. While 5 minutes was perfect in my Ninja Foodi Dual Zone air fryer, your specific model (e.g., basket, oven-style) might require slightly more or less time. Always monitor your sliders closely during the last few minutes to ensure they reach your desired level of golden toastiness and melted cheese without burning.
- Parchment Paper for Easy Cleanup: Line your air fryer basket with air fryer parchment paper (with holes) for even easier cleanup. It helps prevent any melted cheese or butter from sticking to the basket.
- Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting to load up on fillings, try not to overstuff your sliders. Too much ham or cheese can make them difficult to handle and may prevent even cooking.
More Delicious Air Fryer Ham Recipes You’ll Love
If you’ve enjoyed these ham and cheese sliders, you’ll definitely want to explore more air fryer recipes that put ham to good use. The air fryer is a fantastic tool for quick and easy ham-based meals and sides. Here are some of our favorites:
Easy Air Fryer Mini Ham and Cheese Quiche with Crust
How to Make a Hot Ham and Cheese Bagel in the Air Fryer
Easy Air Fryer Ham Steak with Pineapple
Easy Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
How To Cook Hot Pockets In An Air Fryer
Final Thoughts on Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Sliders
These air fryer ham and cheese sliders on Hawaiian pretzel rolls are more than just a recipe; they’re a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying solution for any meal or snack occasion. Whether you’re looking to efficiently use up leftover holiday ham or simply craving a delicious, hot sandwich, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The combination of sweet and savory notes, along with the irresistible crispy texture from the air fryer, makes these sliders an instant family favorite.
And if you’re exploring the world of air fryer sliders, don’t forget you can even transform frozen White Castle sliders in the air fryer for a fast-food fix at home!
Katie’s tip
For even more fantastic slider ideas and variations, be sure to check out my comprehensive guide to the best air fryer slider recipes!
Easy Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Sliders on Hawaiian Pretzel Rolls
Equipment
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Air Fryer
-
Bread knife
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Pastry brush (or similar)
-
Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 11 ounce Package Hawaiian pretzel slider rolls (such as Kings Hawaiian)
- 3 slices Spiral ham (or about 1/2 pound deli ham)
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 3 tbsp Garlic aioli
- 1 tbsp Salted butter melted
- 1/2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp Onion powder
- 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
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Preheat your air fryer to 350°F
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Slice your Hawaiian pretzel sliders in half horizontally (if needed) to create top and bottom bun halves. If you can’t fit the entire loaf of sliders in your air fryer basket at once, cut vertically into smaller sections
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To the bottom buns, spread garlic aioli evenly
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Top the aioli with slices of spiral ham, evenly distributed
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Place swiss cheese slices on top of ham
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Combine melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and onion powder in a small bowl
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Brush the cut side of the top buns with the butter mixture
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Place the top buns on top of the cheese to create sandwiches
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Add the sliders to your preheated air fryer basket
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Cook sliders on air fry setting for 5-7 minutes at 350°F, or until cheese is melted and buns are toasted
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Remove from the air fryer, cut into slider sections, and serve!
Notes
- You can use regular Hawaiian slider rolls (not pretzel) or even non-Hawaiian rolls if preferred. If you use non-Hawaiian rolls, add 1 tsp brown sugar to your mustard sauce for sweetness
- Cheddar is a good substitute if you don’t like swiss, as it goes well with ham
- You can use regular mayonnaise and add ½ tsp garlic powder in place of the aioli
- Feel free to adjust or add other seasonings like everything bagel mix, poppyseeds, onion flakes, or anything else you like
- If you’d like to make the sliders pull-apart instead of cutting them, trim the ham and cheese slices to fit each bun ahead of time
- I don’t add butter mixture to the top of the pretzel rolls because you’ll ruin the pretzel salt if you do that, but feel free to if you’re using regular Hawaiian rolls
- This recipe easily doubles (or more) to feed a crowd
- 5 minutes was perfect in my Ninja Foodi Dual Zone air fryer, however times may vary slightly with other air fryers
- Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand of ingredients, substitutions, sides, and quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
Nutrition
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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