If you’re on the lookout for a bite-sized delight that bursts with flavor and easy prep, the Canadian Bacon and Havarti Cheese Sliders with Pesto Glaze Recipe is an absolute game-changer. These sliders combine the smoky, savory charm of Canadian bacon with the creamy, buttery melt of Havarti cheese, all glazed with a vibrant pesto butter that brings a fresh-herb twist. Perfect for gatherings, quick dinners, or even a snack that feels special, this recipe embraces simple yet thoughtful ingredients that come together beautifully every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role, from creating the creamy texture and balanced flavors to giving the sliders an irresistible aroma and color. Don’t be fooled by the simplicity; these ingredients elevate the sliders into a truly memorable dish.
- Butter (1 stick or 1/2 cup): The rich base that carries the pesto glaze and helps crisp the tops beautifully during baking.
- Pesto (2 tablespoons): Adds a fresh, herby punch that brightens every bite with basil and garlic notes.
- Dijon mustard (1-3 teaspoons): Brings a subtle tang and mild kick to balance the richness.
- Dried minced onion (1 tablespoon): Offers a mild onion flavor, enhancing depth without overpowering.
- Red pepper flakes (1/2 to 1 teaspoon): Introduce a gentle heat to keep your palate intrigued.
- Hawaiian rolls (1 package of 12 rolls): Sweet, soft, and pillowy—perfect for holding all the delicious fillings.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Creates a creamy layer that complements the ham and cheese wonderfully.
- Sugar (1 teaspoon, optional): Adds a touch of sweetness to balance tart and savory elements.
- Canadian bacon (12-14 ounces; about 24 slices): The savory star protein, offering just the right amount of saltiness and smoky flavor.
- Havarti cheese (8 ounces, sliced): Melts beautifully with a buttery, mild taste that everyone loves.
How to Make Canadian Bacon and Havarti Cheese Sliders with Pesto Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pesto Butter Mixture
Start by gently melting the butter until it’s mostly liquid but still has some soft bits left—this texture helps the flavors blend better. Stir in the vibrant pesto, Dijon mustard, minced onion, and red pepper flakes. Let this flavorful mixture rest at room temperature to thicken slightly, or pop it in the fridge while you work on the sliders. This mixture will create that crave-worthy glossy glaze that ties everything together.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Split the Rolls
Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to get ready for baking. Take a sharp serrated knife and carefully slice your Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally—but keep them connected as one whole tray. This technique ensures the sliders bake evenly and stay together for easy serving.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients on the Bottom Half
On your baking sheet or in a 9×13-inch pan, place the bottom half of the rolls. Stir the mayonnaise and sugar in a small bowl until smooth—you can skip the sugar if you prefer, but this adds a lovely subtle sweetness. Spread this mayo mixture evenly over the rolls, then layer on the Canadian bacon slices, followed by the creamy Havarti cheese on top. The careful layering creates a perfect melty and meaty combination.
Step 4: Assemble and Glaze the Sliders
Place the top half of the rolls back onto the layered bottom. Spoon the pesto butter mixture generously over the tops of the rolls, spreading it out evenly so every slider gets that beautiful herb-infused shine that caramelizes in the oven.
Step 5: Cover and Bake
Cover the assembled sliders with aluminum foil sprayed with nonstick spray—this prevents the cheese from sticking to the foil while trapping heat. Bake for 12 minutes at 350°F, which allows the cheese to melt and the rolls to warm through.
Step 6: Finish Baking for a Crispy Top
After the initial bake, remove the foil and return the slides to the oven for an additional 2 to 5 minutes. Watch closely as the tops brown and crisp to perfection—this step adds that irresistible crunch and golden color. Just be mindful not to burn the bottoms.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Once baked, use a sharp knife to cut the large tray into individual sliders. Serve them hot for the ultimate gooey, savory experience everyone will adore.
How to Serve Canadian Bacon and Havarti Cheese Sliders with Pesto Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like a handful of basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley add a pop of color and amplify the herbal freshness already in the pesto glaze. A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper can also awaken the flavors just before serving.
Side Dishes
Pair these sliders with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or crispy sweet potato fries for a satisfying mix of textures. A bowl of tomato soup on the side brings a cozy feel, making the meal both comforting and exciting.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, arrange the sliders on a large wooden board surrounded by small bowls of extra pesto, mustard, and pickles. You can also serve them mini-skewered with colorful toothpicks—this makes grabbing and sharing easier while highlighting the layers inside each slider beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any sliders left after your feast, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping them tightly sealed helps retain moisture so the bread doesn’t dry out and the flavors stay fresh.
Freezing
These sliders freeze well if you want to prepare them in advance. Wrap the assembled but unbaked sliders tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the sliders with foil and warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil in the last few minutes if you want to bring back that crispy top finish.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of Havarti?
Absolutely! While Havarti brings a creamy, buttery texture, cheeses like Monterey Jack, Swiss, or even a mild cheddar work well if you want to experiment with flavors.
Is it possible to make these sliders vegetarian?
Yes, simply swap out Canadian bacon for grilled vegetables or a plant-based deli slice, and keep the other ingredients the same for a delicious vegetarian option.
How spicy are these sliders?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth, but you can adjust the quantity or omit them for a completely mild version that still bursts with flavor from the pesto and Dijon.
Can I prep these sliders ahead of time?
Definitely. You can assemble the sliders a few hours before baking. Keep them covered in the fridge and add the pesto butter glaze right before cooking to maintain freshness.
What’s the best way to serve these at a party?
Serve them warm on a platter with dipping sauces like extra pesto, mustard, or even a sweet chili sauce. Using colorful toothpicks makes them easy to grab and enjoy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something special about sharing the Canadian Bacon and Havarti Cheese Sliders with Pesto Glaze Recipe with friends and family. Its combination of simple ingredients that come together to deliver a rich, satisfying, and utterly delicious snack or meal is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite comfort food in slider form!
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Canadian Bacon and Havarti Cheese Sliders with Pesto Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 6 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Canadian Bacon and Havarti Cheese Sliders with Pesto Glaze are flavorful, easy-to-make bite-sized sandwiches perfect for parties or a satisfying snack. Soft Hawaiian rolls are layered with savory Canadian bacon, creamy Havarti cheese, and a rich pesto butter glaze that bakes to golden, melty perfection. Sweet and slightly spicy notes from Dijon mustard and red pepper flakes add depth to this delicious baked slider recipe.
Ingredients
Pesto Butter Glaze
- 1 stick butter (1/2 cup)
- 2 tablespoons pesto
- 1–3 teaspoons Dijon mustard (to taste, I used 1 teaspoon)
- 1 tablespoon dried minced onion (or fresh minced onion)
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Sliders
- 1 package Hawaiian rolls (12 rolls)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 12–14 ounces Canadian bacon (about 24 small slices or your favorite ham)
- 8 ounces sliced Havarti cheese
Instructions
- Melt the Butter: In a small bowl, melt the butter halfway in the microwave for 40-60 seconds until mostly melted with some softened bits remaining.
- Mix the Glaze: Stir in pesto, Dijon mustard, minced onion, and red pepper flakes. Allow the mixture to rest at room temperature or refrigerate briefly to thicken while assembling sandwiches.
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
- Prepare Rolls: Using a sharp serrated knife, slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally without separating individual rolls. Place the bottom halves on a rimmed baking sheet or a 9×13 inch pan.
- Make Mayo Spread: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise and sugar (optional for sweetness). This can be skipped if preferred plain.
- Assemble Sliders: Spread the mayo mixture on the bottom half of the rolls. Layer Canadian bacon evenly on top, then add sliced Havarti cheese.
- Top the Sliders: Place the top halves of the rolls over the layered ingredients.
- Add Pesto Butter: Spoon the pesto butter glaze over the tops of the rolls, spreading evenly.
- Cover with Foil: Cover the sliders with aluminum foil sprayed with nonstick spray to prevent cheese from sticking.
- Bake Covered: Bake at 350°F for 12 minutes to warm and melt the cheese.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 2-5 minutes until the tops are golden brown and crispy, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Serve: Cut the sliders individually using a sharp knife and serve hot for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Adjust Dijon mustard and red pepper flakes to taste for desired spice level.
- Use fresh minced onion instead of dried if available for milder flavor.
- Spraying foil with nonstick spray prevents melted cheese from sticking to it.
- Watch the baking closely during uncovered stage to avoid burning the bread bottoms.
- Mayonnaise and sugar mixture is optional, plain mayo works well too.
- These sliders are best enjoyed fresh and warm.
