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Easy Ham and Cheese Croissant Sliders: Best Party Appetizer

ham and cheese croissant sliders - featured image

Buttery, cheesy, and irresistibly savory, these easy ham and cheese croissant sliders are the ultimate party appetizer. Ready in under 25 minutes with simple ingredients, they’re perfect for tailgates, potlucks, or any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 mini croissants (or 6 large croissants cut in half)
  • 1 pound deli-sliced ham (honey, smoked, or black forest)
  • 8 slices Swiss cheese
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Pinch of salt and black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice croissants horizontally if not pre-split. Place bottom halves in a 9×13-inch baking dish, cut side up.
  2. Layer ham evenly over the bottom croissant halves, using about 2-3 slices per slider. Fold slices for more substance.
  3. Place a slice of Swiss cheese on top of the ham on each slider. Let cheese come to room temperature for even melting.
  4. Place top halves of croissants back on, cut side down. Press gently.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and honey (if using).
  6. Generously brush the butter mixture over the tops and edges of the croissants. Sprinkle poppy seeds evenly on top.
  7. Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for 10 minutes.
  8. Remove foil carefully. Continue baking for 5-7 minutes, until tops are golden brown and cheese is bubbly. For extra crispy tops, broil for 1-2 minutes.
  9. Let sliders rest for 5 minutes. Use a spatula to separate and transfer to a serving platter. Serve warm.

Notes

For best results, use fresh croissants and sliced cheese (not pre-shredded). The foil step is crucial to melt cheese without burning tops. To prevent soggy bottoms, avoid brushing butter mixture on the bottom halves. Assemble up to 24 hours ahead (without butter mixture) and refrigerate. Reheat in oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: ham and cheese sliders, croissant sliders, party appetizer, easy appetizer, game day food, tailgate food