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Savory Leftover Easter Ham Sliders with Easy Caramelized Onion Jam Recipe

leftover Easter ham sliders - featured image

These savory sliders transform leftover Easter ham into a juicy, flavorful treat with a sweet and tangy caramelized onion jam. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces leftover Easter ham, thinly sliced
  • 8 slider buns (soft dinner rolls or mini brioche buns, King’s Hawaiian recommended)
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 4 ounces sharp cheddar or gruyère cheese, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon or spicy brown mustard (optional)
  • A few sprigs fresh thyme, leaves stripped (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Make the caramelized onion jam: Heat butter and olive oil over medium-low heat in a large skillet. Add thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions are soft, golden, and fragrant. Add brown sugar and stir to coat.
  2. Add balsamic vinegar: Pour in the balsamic vinegar and continue cooking for 5-7 minutes, stirring often until the jam thickens and becomes glossy. Season with pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Prep the slider buns: Slice buns in half horizontally but keep the layers intact so you can fill and reassemble easily.
  4. Assemble the sliders: Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the bottom halves of the buns. Layer with sliced ham (about 1 ounce per slider), a generous spoonful of caramelized onion jam, and a slice of cheese.
  5. Reassemble and prepare for baking: Place the top halves of the buns over the fillings. Arrange sliders close together on a baking sheet or oven-safe dish to keep them soft and warm during baking.
  6. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake sliders for 10-12 minutes or until cheese melts and buns lightly toast. For extra indulgence, brush tops with melted butter before baking.
  7. Garnish and serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle fresh thyme leaves on top, and serve warm.

Notes

If ham feels dry, warm gently in skillet with a splash of water or broth before assembling. The onion jam should be thick but not runny; reduce longer if needed. Spread mustard on buns to prevent sogginess. Arrange sliders close together to keep buns soft. For a crispier top, separate sliders slightly or broil briefly.

Nutrition

Keywords: leftover ham, ham sliders, caramelized onion jam, Easter leftovers, quick dinner, slider recipe, easy appetizers