Mini Ham And Cheese Rolls Recipe

Name: Mini Ham And Cheese Rolls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons dried minced onion; 1 tablespoon prepared mustard; 2 tablespoons poppy seeds; 0.5 cup margarine, melted; 24 dinner rolls; 0.5 pound chopped ham; 0.5 pound thinly sliced Swiss cheese

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons dried minced onion
1 tablespoon prepared mustard
2 tablespoons poppy seeds
cup margarine, melted
24 dinner rolls
pound chopped ham
pound thinly sliced Swiss cheese

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 325F (165C).
In a small mixing bowl, combine the dried minced onion, mustard, poppy seeds, and melted margarine. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Carefully slice each dinner roll in half, creating a sandwich-like structure.
Place a slice of Swiss cheese and a portion of chopped ham between the two halves of each roll.
Arrange the prepared sandwiches on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Drizzle the poppy seed mixture generously over the tops of the sandwiches, ensuring each one is coated.
Bake the sandwiches in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sandwiches are golden brown.
Once baked, remove from the oven and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Ham and Swiss Cheese Sandwiches with a poppy seed topping!

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	145	-
Total Fat	9g	12%
Saturated Fat	3g	15%
Cholesterol	18mg	6%
Sodium	277mg	12%
Total Carbohydrate	10g	4%
Dietary Fiber	1g	3%
Total Sugars	2g	-
Protein	6g	11%
Vitamin C	0mg	0%
Calcium	87mg	7%
Iron	1mg	4%
Potassium	50mg	1%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

Mini Ham and Cheese Rolls are a perfect combination of savory ham, melted Swiss cheese, and soft dinner rolls, all baked together with a buttery, flavorful topping. This simple yet indulgent snack has become a crowd-pleaser at parties, family gatherings, and casual meals alike. Here's a look at the history, regional variations, and fun facts behind this delectable treat.

History of Mini Ham and Cheese Rolls

The origins of Mini Ham and Cheese Rolls can be traced back to the United States, where they became popular as a quick and easy snack or appetizer. These little sandwiches are believed to have evolved from the classic combination of ham and cheese, a pairing that has long been a staple in many culinary traditions. The concept of using small rolls as the base likely came from the widespread popularity of slider-style sandwiches, which became especially popular in the 20th century. Over time, different variations of this dish emerged, including the use of Hawaiian rolls, various fillings, and different flavorings for the buttery glaze.

Regional Variations

Mini Ham and Cheese Rolls have become a beloved snack across the U.S., but regional variations exist depending on local preferences and available ingredients. In some parts of the country, sweet Hawaiian rolls are the bread of choice, adding a subtle sweetness that complements the savory filling. In other regions, people might use soft dinner rolls or slider buns. The filling itself can vary, with some adding turkey, roast beef, or even different types of cheese like cheddar or provolone. Spices and condiments such as honey mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and onion powder are often incorporated into the butter glaze to add a unique twist to the flavor profile.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

While Mini Ham and Cheese Rolls are often compared to other sandwich-based dishes like sliders or croissant sandwiches, they have distinct characteristics that set them apart. The key difference lies in the way they are assembled and baked. Unlike traditional sliders, where the sandwiches are made individually, Mini Ham and Cheese Rolls are typically made using a whole pack of dinner rolls, with the top sliced off, the filling added, and the entire loaf baked together. The buttery glaze poured over the top before baking gives them a rich, flavorful finish that is not usually found in other similar sandwiches. This method also keeps the rolls soft and moist, unlike other baked sandwiches that might dry out during cooking.

Where Mini Ham and Cheese Rolls Are Typically Served

Mini Ham and Cheese Rolls are a versatile dish, often served at parties, gatherings, and events such as tailgates, birthdays, or casual get-togethers. Their finger-food nature makes them ideal for buffets or potlucks, where guests can grab a quick bite. They are also a popular choice for holiday gatherings, especially around Christmas or Thanksgiving, when quick and easy appetizers are in demand. Many people also make them for simple family dinners or as an afternoon snack, as they are easy to prepare and loved by both kids and adults alike.

Interesting Facts About Mini Ham and Cheese Rolls

While originally a savory dish, some variations of Mini Ham and Cheese Rolls incorporate sweet ingredients like brown sugar or honey in the glaze to create a unique balance of sweet and salty flavors.
The popularity of Hawaiian rolls in this dish stems from the trend of using sweet rolls for savory fillings, which provides a delightful contrast between the bread and the filling.
Mini Ham and Cheese Rolls are incredibly adaptable, and you can swap out the ham for turkey, roast beef, or even vegetarian options like grilled vegetables or tofu for those with dietary restrictions.
Although often associated with comfort food, the dish has become trendy at high-end cocktail parties and events, with some chefs adding gourmet cheeses and exotic condiments to elevate the flavor.

Whether you're serving them at a party or enjoying them as a quick snack, Mini Ham and Cheese Rolls offer a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that make them a timeless favorite.

FAQ about Mini Ham And Cheese Rolls Recipe

Yes, you can prepare these rolls ahead of time. Once assembled, you can cover them with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove them from the fridge and bake according to the recipe instructions. Some people even find that letting them sit overnight enhances the flavors.

Yes, these rolls can be frozen both before or after baking. To freeze unbaked rolls, assemble them as directed, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time. Alternatively, you can freeze the baked rolls for a quicker option; just reheat them in the oven until warmed through.

To store leftovers, place the rolls in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is a popular choice, you can use other cheeses such as cheddar, provolone, mozzarella, or gouda. The type of cheese you choose will change the flavor profile of the rolls, so feel free to experiment to suit your preferences.

If you don’t have poppy seeds, you can either omit them or substitute with sesame seeds, chia seeds, or even a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for added texture. The poppy seeds contribute a slight crunch and visual appeal, but the rolls will still be delicious without them.

Yes, you can use a different type of bread if you prefer. While dinner rolls are traditional for this recipe, you can substitute with slider buns, soft sandwich rolls, or even croissants. Just make sure the bread is soft and capable of holding the filling without becoming too soggy.

Yes, you can easily make these rolls vegetarian by omitting the ham and replacing it with your favorite vegetarian fillings. Options include grilled vegetables, plant-based deli meats, or even a cheese-only version. Adjust the ingredients to your liking.

The rolls should be baked for about 20 minutes at 325°F (165°C) or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as different ovens may vary slightly in temperature.

Yes, you can substitute regular mustard with honey mustard if you prefer a sweeter flavor. This will give the rolls a slightly different taste, but it will still be delicious.

If you can't find mini dinner rolls, you can use regular-sized dinner rolls or even slider buns. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly if using larger rolls.

Comments

always_hungry

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

Awesome! I substituted turkey for ham. I also added some onion powder that had parsley and green onions mixed in. I used Hawaiian Rolls and added horseradish to the butter glaze. Following another member's advice, I sliced off the tops of the rolls all at once, added the filling, then I replaced the top. After the glazing and baking process, I separated the sandwiches with a serrated knife. This method is faster and easier than trying to cut, stuff, and glaze two dozen tiny sandwiches. I also used a silicone pastry brush to apply the butter mixture.

Nancy

04/27/2008 05:02:24 PM

Fantastic Recipe with slight changes. Line pan w/foil. Use Hawaiin Rolls - without separating into individual rolls, cut top off of dinner rolls. Heat in sauce pan for 2 mins: 1/2 c butter, 1/3 c brown sugar, 2 TBS worcestershire sauce, 2 TBS dijon mustard, 2 TBS poppy seeds, 2 tsp minced onion (optional). Layer ham & cheese over bread bottom. Spread 1/3 of heated butter mixture over ham & cheese then replace bread top and pour remaining butter mixture over top of rolls. Bake for 20 mins.

cookin'mama

03/29/2008 02:30:49 PM

These were a big hit at a party with salads and sandwiches. I made the sandwiches the night before and wrapped them in a double layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil. I mixed together the butter mixture and poured it over the sandwiches right before baking, using less butter and real minced onion. I baked them right in the aluminum foil on a baking sheet. They were gone before I knew it and there was no clean up to speak of! I will make these again!

f8hopeLove

04/03/2013 09:41:40 AM

I tried this as is and I liked it. I made it again using a honey mustard base while putting the majority of the filling inside and spreading some over the top which I ended up preferring. My BIG tip is to slice all 12 rolls while they are stuck together, I used hawaiian sweet rolls. Just take the whole group of the 12 and slice through the whole thing horizontally then you have two halves. Put the bottom half in a foil-lined pan then lay your ham and cheese over the top and then top it with the top half, when it comes out of the oven lift out the whole thing out using the foil then cut them into sandwiches on the marks. Very quick and easy that way!

RainbowJewels

08/08/2016 02:04:30 AM

I made two versions of this - one with ham as called for, and another with roast beef and cheddar cheese. I left out the poppy seeds from both because I don't care for them. I flash froze both batches and vacuum sealed for a no fuss meal later that will just need to to be pulled from the freezer and baked.

sugarcat

09/14/2008 02:36:20 PM

Wow... these are GREAT! Such a simple recipe but the melted butter mixture really makes the sandwiches special. I made these for tailgating & was told I must bring them to every tailgate now. I loved the previous suggestion of cutting the individual dinner rolls after "stuffing" them instead of making individual sandwiches. I omitted the poppy seeds (personal preference) & brushed the melted butter mixture on the inside of the sandwiches. Since I did not brush the outsides of the rolls, I reduced the cooking time to 15 minutes so they wouldn't dry out. Thank you for a super simple wonderful recipe!

Tara Eveland

02/15/2015 02:55:56 PM

A Freakin MAZING! The first time I made this I doubled the sauce and it was 'a bit much' lol This time I followed the exact ingredients (leaving out the poppy seeds) and it was amazing! Perfect blend of everything! We never have leftovers! Some tips I took from others and a few from myself: 1. Use HONEY MUSTARD (I use Kens Steakhouse brand) so good! 2. Make sure you chop up the ham it does make a difference 3. Make REALLY SURE you don't fix this then throw in oven. You HAVE to let it sit in fridge at LEAST 6 hours/I prefer overnight but today 6 hours was all I had :) 4. I use honey ham lunch meat, Swiss cheese slices cut into 4, and Kings Hawaiian rolls for the bread :) so good!

MLRHODES0409

09/11/2013 10:47:38 AM

I make these all the time. But aren't those sesame seeds instead of poppy seeds in the picture. In fact, I. Use sesame seed because the black poppy seeds get in your teeth. : ). I, also, spread on inside of bun and outside and wrap in foil. (Individually)

Janis Shirley Pressley-Griffin

12/19/2010 05:37:12 PM

I've made these for over 30 years, but without the minced onion. I don't melt the butter, but let it get very soft and add the mustard to it and mixinto a spread. I then spread the mixture on the rolls (used to use Pepperidge Farm Party Roll, but can't find them anymore, so I use Sarah Lee) after I have cut them in half (try not to break up the rolls) I then sprinkle the poppy seeds on 1/2 of the split rolls, then slices of thin sliced ham and havari or swiss cheese. I wrap in Reynold wrap and put the oven at 350 for 15 minutes. I don't pour butter over them. That's too messy for me. Spreading on the inside makes them delish!!!!

ralloyd

11/29/2008 12:40:32 PM

I have been making somthing similar to these for years and they are always a big hit - even with those who aren't crazy about ham and swiss! My recipe varies by adding 1 or 2 teasp. of Worchestershire sauce and NOT melting the butter. Simply soften it and then mix all the other ingredients (except ham, cheese, rolls). Slice the top of the party roll loaf, spread the softenend butter mixture on both of the cut sides of the rolls, layer ham, cheese, ham and put the top back on the loaf. These can also be baked in foil if you want a softer roll. Yummy with any kind of deli meat/cheese.

Rachelfachorn12

02/02/2014 01:21:09 PM

I love this recipe!!! I used turkey and ham and also put butter mixture inside the rolls and on top and used provoloneccheese and Swis . But Instead of dried minced onion I used fresh onions and it came out PERFECTLY!! I only put them in the oven 10 minutes and I'm glad I did because they would have burned if I put them in 20 minutes but absolutely yummy oh and I used dijorn mustard instead of regular I just like dijon better

Joseph Roberts

11/18/2024 10:59:38 PM

Made it for a party — everyone loved it.

KateSpath

10/26/2024 02:03:33 PM

I make these, but I cannot find the original pan mini rolls in any store anymore. I would like the bread recipe. The smallest Hawaiian Rolls are too big still. We love this recipe.

Patty Ignaszewski

05/13/2023 03:38:47 PM

Super easy and a crowd pleaser.

firemaninil

09/10/2020 11:07:29 PM

These are amazing. Even the kids kept coming back for more of them. Exellent for an easy evening or a heavier lunch. Bring them out for party/handout type events they will be a hit.

Donna Jefferson

06/11/2020 08:29:44 PM

We LOVE this quick and easy yet very tasty dinner.

shar crockett

05/17/2020 01:03:05 AM

These were so so easy to make. I used leftover Easter ham. Easy peasy! The sauce is so so nummy! My family loves it!

Corinne Helderman Yelton

02/04/2020 10:53:42 PM

Awesome, wouldn’t change a thing!

MizVicki

11/29/2019 10:52:38 PM

Made this for the the team working outside in the cold. They loved it!

Jackie Tarpley

11/05/2019 01:28:47 AM

Great party food

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