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Elevate simple Hawaiian rolls into irresistible party bites with these savory turkey and Swiss cheese sliders topped with an everything bagel butter that takes them to the next level. These crowd-pleasing appetizers combine the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors in every bite. After perfecting this recipe through countless game days and gatherings, it's become our most requested party food.
Last weekend, I served these at a game day gathering, and they disappeared before halftime. Sometimes the simplest recipes using ready-made ingredients create the most memorable dishes.
Essential Ingredients
- Hawaiian Sweet Rolls: For soft, slightly sweet base
- Deli Turkey: Thin-sliced works best
- Swiss Cheese: Creates perfect melt
- Quality Butter: Forms flavor-packed topping
- Dijon Mustard: Adds subtle tang
- Worcestershire Sauce: Creates depth of flavor
- Everything Bagel Seasoning: The secret flavor enhancer
Detailed Cooking Instructions
- Roll Preparation:
- Begin by slicing the entire package of Hawaiian rolls horizontally without separating them. This creates one large bottom piece and one large top piece, maintaining the pull-apart nature of the final dish. Place the bottom half in a foil-lined baking dish sprayed with nonstick cooking spray.
- Strategic Layering:
- Layer thin-sliced deli turkey evenly across the bottom half. The turkey not only provides protein but creates a moisture barrier that helps prevent soggy bottoms. Top with an even layer of Swiss cheese, completely covering the turkey.
- Flavor-Packed Topping:
- Melt butter and whisk in Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and everything bagel seasoning. This savory mixture infuses the rolls with incredible flavor while creating a beautiful golden crust during baking. Brush generously over the top of the assembled sliders.
- Perfect Baking:
- Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes, then uncover for the final 5 minutes to achieve perfectly golden tops. The covered baking period ensures the cheese melts completely while preventing the tops from burning.
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This recipe evolved from wanting to create the perfect party slider that's both easy to make and impressive to serve. The everything bagel butter topping is what truly sets these apart from ordinary ham and cheese sliders.
Make-Ahead Magic
These sliders can be assembled up to 4 hours before baking - perfect for party prep! Assemble completely, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to add 5 extra minutes of covered baking time if cooking directly from the refrigerator.
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Storage Strategy
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. These also freeze beautifully for up to 3 months - perfect for quick future meals.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile sliders work perfectly as:
- Party appetizers alongside other finger foods
- Quick weeknight dinner with a simple side salad
- Game day fare with potato salad or sweet potato fries
- Lunchbox option for hungry kids and adults alike
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Final Thoughts
These Turkey Sliders represent the perfect balance of convenience and impressive flavor. Each bite delivers the comfort of a sandwich transformed into something special through thoughtful preparation. Whether you're hosting a game day gathering or looking for an easy family dinner, this recipe proves that simple ingredients combined with the right technique create something truly crave-worthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
- Yes, prepare up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate covered until ready to bake.
- → What can I substitute for everything bagel seasoning?
- Use poppy seeds, sesame seeds, dried minced onion, or Italian seasoning.
- → Can I use other meats or cheeses?
- Yes, ham, roast beef, chicken, cheddar, or provolone all work well.
- → How do I reheat leftovers?
- Warm in 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual sliders.
- → Why keep the rolls connected?
- It's easier to assemble and keeps the fillings from falling out when serving.