The aroma of crispy prosciutto filling the kitchen is a true sign that the holidays are near. I can still taste the delightful combination of textures and flavors that make these Crispy Prosciutto and Cheese Sliders a must-have on my seasonal menu. Each bite brings together soft dinner rolls, sweet fig preserves, and luscious melting cheese, proving that delicious appetizers don’t have to be complicated. Not only are these sliders an effortless way to impress your guests, but they’re also a delightful crowd-pleaser that can be prepped in advance for that extra holiday cheer. With a buttery Dijon topping that brings it all together, you’ll find yourself reaching for another slider before you even finish the first. Ready to elevate your appetizer game at your next gathering? Let’s dive into the delicious details!

Why Are These Sliders So Irresistible?

Decadent and Simple: These Crispy Prosciutto and Cheese Sliders boast the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making them a standout at any gathering.
Rich Flavor Fusion: The sweet fig preserves and rich prosciutto create a unique taste sensation that’s truly unforgettable.
Easy to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time, allowing you to spend more time with your guests!
Crowd-Pleaser: Their delightful combination is sure to satisfy all palates, just like other favorites such as Potato Cheese Sticks and Sweet Sour Chicken.
Make Ahead Options: Prepare them up to the baking stage, so you can pop them in the oven just before your guests arrive for a fresh, hot treat.
Embrace the holiday spirit with these sliders that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Crispy Prosciutto and Cheese Sliders Ingredients

For the Sliders

  • Prosciutto – Adds a rich, salty flavor and turns crispy when baked; feel free to substitute with bacon for a different twist.
  • Dinner Rolls – Soft and fluffy, they provide an excellent base; using slider-sized rolls works best for even baking.
  • Fig Preserves – Offers a delightful sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the salty prosciutto; swap it for apricot preserves for a fruity variation.
  • Shredded Fontina Cheese – Melts to create a creamy texture; mozzarella can be used as a substitute for similar melting qualities.
  • Shredded Swiss Cheese – Adds a nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients; consider using Gruyère for a richer taste.

For the Topping

  • Salted Butter – Enhances the overall flavor and helps the toppings stick; unsalted butter can be used if watching sodium intake.
  • Dijon Mustard – Provides a zesty kick; honey mustard or yellow mustard can serve as great alternatives.
  • Worcestershire Sauce – Enriches the dish with savory depth; feel free to skip it if watching sodium.
  • Poppy Seeds – Adds a touch of visual flair and crunch; if unavailable, sesame seeds make a lovely substitute.
  • Chopped Fresh Thyme – Infuses a delightful herbal aroma; don’t hesitate to swap with rosemary or parsley for a different herbaceous note.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Prosciutto and Cheese Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready. This temperature is perfect for achieving that mouthwatering, crispy texture in your Crispy Prosciutto and Cheese Sliders. While the oven heats up, gather all your ingredients and equipment, ensuring a smooth cooking experience.

Step 2: Crisp the Prosciutto
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the slices of prosciutto in a single layer. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn, as crispy prosciutto is essential for adding texture to the sliders.

Step 3: Prepare the Rolls
While the prosciutto is baking, take your soft dinner rolls and slice them in half horizontally. Spread a generous layer of fig preserves on the bottom halves, ensuring each roll is evenly coated. Then, layer on shredded fontina and Swiss cheeses, followed by the crispy prosciutto once it’s out of the oven. Place the top halves of the rolls back on to create complete sliders.

Step 4: Make the Butter Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine melted salted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chopped fresh thyme, minced garlic, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk together until the mixture is well blended. This buttery Dijon sauce will add a rich flavor to your Crispy Prosciutto and Cheese Sliders, making them irresistible.

Step 5: Bake the Sliders
Carefully pour the butter mixture evenly over the assembled sliders, ensuring every bite is coated in flavor. Cover the sliders with aluminum foil, then place them in the oven and bake for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the sliders from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Slice the assembled sliders for easy serving, and consider garnishing with fresh thyme for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm, and watch your guests delight in these Crispy Prosciutto and Cheese Sliders as they savor every delicious bite.

Expert Tips for Crispy Prosciutto and Cheese Sliders

Crisp Prosciutto: Ensure the prosciutto is baked until very crispy; this texture contrast is vital for the sliders’ overall success.

Room Temperature Butter: Start with room-temperature butter for easier mixing of the sauce, ensuring a smooth and flavorful coating for your Crispy Prosciutto and Cheese Sliders.

Cooling Time: Allow the sliders to cool slightly after baking. This helps the cheese set and keeps everything from sliding apart when you slice them.

Freezing Option: Prepare the sliders up to the baking step, then freeze them. Bake them directly from the freezer, just add a few extra minutes for cooking time.

Cheese Melting: Combine different cheeses to enhance flavor. Fontina and Swiss offer a great melt, but feel free to experiment with others like Gruyère for added depth.

What to Serve with Crispy Prosciutto and Cheese Sliders

The perfect accompaniment can elevate your festive gathering, enhancing the delicious flavors of your sliders.

  • Crisp Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the sliders’ richness. The crunch of the greens balances the soft and cheesy textures beautifully.

  • Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and Brussels sprouts bring seasonal warmth and earthy flavors to your table. Their natural sweetness complements the savory sliders perfectly.

  • Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of warm garlic bread is irresistible and pairs well with the sliders. It’s a delightful option for soaking up extra fig preserves or melted cheese!

  • Cheese Board: Creating a small charcuterie spread featuring cheeses, olives, and nuts enhances your gathering’s experience. The variety of flavors will intrigue your guests and invite them to explore more delightful bites.

  • Honey Mustard Dip: Serve a small bowl of honey mustard on the side for dipping. Its sweet and tangy profile complements the salty prosciutto and adds an extra layer of flavor.

  • Sparkling White Wine: Offer a chilled glass of bubbly to elevate your gathering. The acidity and effervescence will cut through the richness and cleanse the palate beautifully between bites.

Whether you’re making a festive charcuterie board or refreshing sides, these pairings will create a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for enjoying your Crispy Prosciutto and Cheese Sliders!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Prosciutto and Cheese Sliders are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline meal prep! You can assemble the sliders up to 24 hours in advance, simply preparing them up to the baking stage. Once you’ve constructed them, cover with foil and refrigerate to keep them fresh. Just before your guests arrive, bake directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure they’re bubbly and golden. For even longer storage, you can freeze the assembled sliders and bake them from frozen, adding about 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you’ll achieve that delicious, warm slider experience with minimal effort!

Variations & Substitutions for Crispy Prosciutto and Cheese Sliders

Feel free to customize these sliders to match your taste preferences or dietary needs, creating endless flavor possibilities!

  • Turkey Bacon: Swap out prosciutto for turkey bacon to lighten the dish while still keeping that crispy essence. It’s a great option for those watching their fat intake.

  • Goat Cheese: For a tangy twist, replace the fig preserves with creamy goat cheese. This variation offers a delightful contrast that pairs beautifully with the savory flavors.

  • Pepper Jack: Add some heat by using pepper jack cheese in place of fontina or Swiss. This spicy kick will elevate your sliders and please heat lovers at your gathering.

  • Savory Spreads: Instead of fig preserves, try a savory spread like olive tapenade for a briny alternative. It’s perfect for Mediterranean-themed gatherings or simply for something different.

  • Herb Alternatives: If fresh thyme isn’t on hand, substitute it with dried Italian herbs or even dill. Each option adds a unique herbal note to the butter sauce.

  • Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and coconut oil in place of butter for a plant-based take. You won’t miss the cheese in these satisfying sliders!

  • Sweet & Spicy: For a fun twist, drizzle a bit of honey or a sriracha-infused sauce alongside the fig preserves. This marriage of flavors will keep your guests guessing!

Remember, many of these variations work great with similar recipes, like Prosciutto Wrapped Mozzarella or even as an accompaniment to a delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches. Enjoy experimenting with your sliders!

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Prosciutto and Cheese Sliders

Room Temperature: Enjoy the sliders immediately after baking for best taste; if left out, consume within 2 hours to avoid spoilage.

Fridge: Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave to restore warmth and texture.

Freezer: Freeze assembled but unbaked sliders for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, cook from frozen, adding an extra few minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: For optimal results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring that the cheese remains gooey and the prosciutto retains its crispy texture.

Crispy Prosciutto and Cheese Sliders Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best prosciutto?
When selecting prosciutto for your Crispy Prosciutto and Cheese Sliders, look for slices that are silky and have a slightly sweet aroma. The color should be a lovely pink hue with some marbling of fat. Avoid any packages with excessive dark spots, indicating aging or poor quality.

How should I store leftovers?
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing them to avoid sogginess. To reheat, pop them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Can I freeze the assembled sliders?
Absolutely! Prepare the sliders up to the baking step, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, simply cook them straight from the freezer, adding an extra few minutes to the baking time.

What if my cheese doesn’t melt well?
If you’re experiencing issues with cheese not melting properly, ensure you’re using fresh, shredded cheese for optimal meltability. Mixing cheeses can help! For a great melt, pair your Swiss and fontina with mozzarella or Gruyère. Also, remember to bake the sliders covered with foil for part of the time to retain moisture and support melting.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Of course! If you’re serving the sliders to guests, it’s wise to check for any dietary restrictions. These sliders contain gluten from the rolls and dairy from the cheese. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free rolls, and for dairy-free alternatives, options like vegan cheese can be used, though texture may differ.

Crispy Prosciutto and Cheese Sliders

Irresistibly Cheesy Crispy Prosciutto and Cheese Sliders

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These Crispy Prosciutto and Cheese Sliders combine savory prosciutto, creamy cheeses, and sweet fig preserves, making them the perfect holiday appetizer.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 sliders
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Sliders
  • 6 ounces Prosciutto Feel free to substitute with bacon.
  • 12 pieces Dinner Rolls Slider-sized works best.
  • 1/2 cup Fig Preserves Apricot preserves can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 cup Shredded Fontina Cheese Mozzarella can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 cup Shredded Swiss Cheese Gruyère can be used for a richer taste.
For the Topping
  • 1/2 cup Salted Butter Unsalted butter can be used.
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard Honey mustard or yellow mustard can be alternatives.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Optional if watching sodium.
  • 1 tablespoon Poppy Seeds Sesame seeds can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon Chopped Fresh Thyme Rosemary or parsley can be used as alternatives.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking Sheet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Parchment Paper

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it's hot and ready.
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the slices of prosciutto in a single layer. Bake until golden brown and crispy for about 8-10 minutes.
  3. Slice dinner rolls in half horizontally and spread fig preserves on the bottom halves. Layer on shredded fontina and Swiss cheeses, followed by the crispy prosciutto.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.
  5. Pour the butter mixture over the sliders. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 10 minutes, then remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and tops are golden.
  6. Allow sliders to cool for a few minutes, slice for serving, and garnish with fresh thyme if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliderCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 15gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

These sliders can be prepared in advance up to the baking stage. They also freeze well for later use. Just adjust cooking time when baking from frozen.

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