Few things make me as happy as pulling a warm tray of breakfast sliders from the oven while the coffee’s brewing and the kids are still in their pajamas. These Savory Ham & Swiss Sliders are my go-to when I want something that feels cozy and a little special—but still completely doable on a groggy weekend morning. Picture buttery brioche buns, gooey Swiss, smoky ham, silky-soft custard, and golden caramelized onions all baked into handheld bites of comfort. Let’s make brunch feel like a warm hug!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is one I used to make for clients during my personal chef days when they needed an easy-yet-wow-worthy brunch option. Now it’s a staple in our house for weekend mornings, game days, and even holidays.
- Perfect make-ahead brunch option—just bake the next morning!
- Kid-approved and great for serving a crowd
- Fancy-feeling without the fuss (thanks to my egg custard trick)
- Incredible savory-sweet flavor thanks to caramelized onions and Swiss
- Totally customizable with mix-ins or swaps
Ingredients Breakdown
Essentials
- 12 mini brioche slider buns (or Hawaiian rolls)
- 8–10 slices honey ham (about 1/2–3/4 lb), thinly sliced
- 8–10 slices Swiss cheese
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for richness)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
Pro Tips
- Use Gruyère for a nuttier melty vibe
- Hollow out the bun base slightly so the custard can settle in
- Caramelize onions low and slow—don’t rush them!
- Make it veggie by swapping ham for sautéed mushrooms or spinach
- Fresh herbs like chives, thyme, or parsley add a lovely finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a skillet over medium-low heat, warm olive oil and butter. Add sliced onions and a generous pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until deeply caramelized and golden—about 20–25 minutes. Set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
- Slice slider buns horizontally and place the bottom half in the baking dish. Optional: gently scoop out a little of the bottom interior if the rolls are thick.
- Layer ham evenly across the bottom buns, followed by slices of Swiss cheese. Sprinkle the caramelized onions on top.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, heavy cream (if using), Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until fully combined.
- Pour the egg custard gently over the ham, cheese, and onions. Let it soak in for a minute.
- Place the top bun halves over the sliders and press lightly.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter with thyme (or parsley), garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Brush over the tops of the buns.
- Optional: sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds for added texture.
- Bake uncovered for 22–28 minutes or until eggs are set and bun tops are golden. If browning too fast, tent lightly with foil.
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes, then slice into individual sliders using a serrated knife.
- Serve warm as-is or with your favorite side dish!
Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Use day-old buns—they soak up custard better without getting soggy.
- Eggs cook fast! Don’t overbake or the texture will turn rubbery.
- Add custard slowly to avoid flooding one area—use a ladle for control.
- Let the sliders sit before slicing to help everything hold together.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Spicy Kick: Stir a little hot sauce or horseradish into the egg mix.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap ham for roasted red peppers or spinach.
- Herbal Touch: Chopped chives or dill add a fresh finish.
- Cheese Switch: Use cheddar, provolone, or a blend for different flavor profiles.
- Serve With: Fresh fruit salad, arugula greens, or mini roasted potatoes.
- Sauces to Try: Maple mustard glaze or chipotle mayo for dipping!
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the sliders (unbaked) the night before and refrigerate. Just bake in the morning and you’re good to go!
Can I freeze the sliders?
Technically yes, though the custard texture is best fresh. If freezing, bake fully first, then wrap and reheat in the oven for best results.
Will it work without heavy cream?
Absolutely! The heavy cream just adds richness. You can sub all milk if preferred, or use half-and-half.
Can I use different meats?
Totally! Turkey or cooked bacon work beautifully here. Just avoid anything that’s too watery.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 22–28 minutes
Total Time: 50–60 minutes
Ingredients:
- 12 mini brioche slider buns
- 8–10 slices of thin honey ham
- 8–10 slices Swiss cheese
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 3 tbsp butter, melted (for brushing)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme or parsley (optional)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- Sesame or poppy seeds (optional garnish)
Instructions:
- Caramelize onions in butter and olive oil over medium-low heat, about 25 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line or grease a 9×13-inch pan.
- Slice and layer slider buns, ham, Swiss, and caramelized onions.
- Whisk together egg custard and pour evenly over filings.
- Top with bun tops, brush with seasoned butter, and bake for 22–28 minutes.
- Let rest, then cut and serve warm.
Nutrition: ~280 calories per slider
Did you try these sliders? I’d LOVE to hear how they turned out for you! Drop a comment below, snap a photo, and tag me on @thekitchensaid so we can drool over your delicious creations together. Happy brunching!
