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How to Make Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sandwiches
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). You’ll want the oven hot and ready to bake these sandwiches to perfection.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
Leave the rolls intact (you can cut them later), and place the entire pack of rolls in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Slice the top of the rolls carefully so they remain connected but are easy to separate once baked.
Next, layer the sandwich fillings. Start with a slice of Swiss cheese on the bottom half of the rolls, followed by a layer of ham, then another slice of cheese on top. Place the top half of the rolls on top of the sandwich fillings, completing the assembly.
Step 3: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Dijon mustard (if using), brown sugar, poppy seeds, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture will create the sweet and savory glaze that gives the sandwich its irresistible flavor.
Pour the butter mixture evenly over the top of the sandwiches, making sure to coat each roll with the flavorful glaze. You can gently press down on the rolls with a spatula to help the butter soak into the bread.
Step 4: Bake the Sandwiches
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake the sandwiches in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes. This will allow the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld together.
After 15 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 5-7 minutes to get the tops golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the sandwiches are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a minute or two before serving. Serve them hot, with the cheese melted, and the Hawaiian rolls still warm and soft.
Serving Suggestions
These Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sandwiches are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a few tasty sides to complete the meal:
- Crispy Fries or Chips: Pair with a side of French fries, sweet potato fries, or crunchy potato chips for a satisfying combo.
- Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy coleslaw complements the richness of the sandwiches and adds a bit of crunch.
- Pickles: The bright acidity of pickles balances the richness of the sandwich and adds a pop of flavor. Consider serving some dill pickle spears on the side or adding pickles inside the sandwich.
- Fresh Salad: For a lighter, healthier option, pair these sandwiches with a simple green salad or a fruit salad for a fresh contrast.
Tips for Success
- Customize the Cheese: Swiss cheese is the classic choice, but you can easily switch it up with other types of cheese like cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Try it with Turkey: If you’re not a fan of ham or want a lighter version, you can use turkey slices instead of ham for a different take on this sandwich.
- Make It Spicy: Add a slice of jalapeño or some hot sauce to give the sandwiches a spicy kick.
- For a Crispy Top: If you like a crunchier topping, sprinkle some extra breadcrumbs or grated Parmesan cheese over the top before baking for added texture and flavor.
- Serve as Sliders: For smaller servings, cut the rolls into individual sliders before baking. This makes them perfect for parties or gatherings!
Final Thoughts
These Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sandwiches are a delightful, easy-to-make dish that brings together the best of sweet, savory, and cheesy flavors. Whether you’re feeding your family, prepping for a party, or just craving something simple and satisfying, these sandwiches are sure to hit the spot. With a perfect balance of melt-in-your-mouth cheese, savory ham, and soft Hawaiian rolls, they are guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy them as a snack, a lunch, or even a dinner for a delicious, comforting meal every time.
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