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This roast beef sliders recipe on sweet Hawaiian rolls is perfect for parties, tailgates, or a quick family dinner. Layers of tender roast beef, melted provolone cheese, sautéed onions, and a creamy mayo horseradish sauce come together under a buttery poppy seed glaze that makes these sliders unforgettable. The sliders are easy to customize and bring a comforting, rich flavor that feels both homemade and special.
I first made these for a game day gathering, and they quickly became my go-to dish whenever friends come over. The combination of savory and sweet with a little kick from horseradish made everyone ask for seconds.
Ingredients
- Hawaiian slider rolls: their natural sweetness and buttery texture make the perfect base for these sliders. Opt for smaller rolls if possible for ideal serving size
- Thinly sliced roast beef deli meat: look for a sealed container with fresh, tender slices to get the best texture and flavor
- Provolone cheese slices: mild and creamy, perfect for melting without overshadowing the roast beef. Swiss or mozzarella can also be used depending on your taste
- Sweet onion: finely chopped and sautéed in butter to bring out mellow sweetness and depth of flavor
- Minced garlic: added towards the end of cooking the onions, it blends well and lifts the savory notes
- Mayonnaise: adds creaminess to the sauce, creating a smooth base for the horseradish
- Horseradish: provides a gentle spicy tang that pairs wonderfully with roast beef
- Butter: used both for sautéing onions and for making the glaze that crisps the tops of the rolls while adding richness
- Worcestershire sauce: adds umami and complexity to the glaze, enhancing the meat’s flavor
- Dijon mustard: adds a subtle tang and helps tie the glaze ingredients together
- Poppy seeds: sprinkled on top to give the sliders a classic poppy seed bun appearance and a slight crunch
Instructions
- Sauté the onions and garlic:
- Heat two tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped sweet onions and cook slowly for about 8 minutes until they turn golden and soft. Stir in the minced garlic during the last couple of minutes, making sure not to burn it. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the sliders:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a long, sharp bread knife to slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally in half. Arrange the bottom halves closely in a foil-lined 9 by 13 inch baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with non-stick foil.
- Make the horseradish mayo spread:
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and horseradish until smooth. Spread this sauce evenly over the bottom halves of the slider rolls to add creaminess and a slight kick.
- Layer the meat and cheese:
- Fold the roast beef slices in half with the fold facing outwards to create a square shape better suited to the roll tops. Layer half of the roast beef evenly across the rolls. Follow with half of the provolone cheese slices. Repeat with the remaining roast beef and cheese layers, creating generous and even coverage.
- Add the sautéed onions:
- Spread the warm, sautéed onions and garlic evenly on top of the final cheese layer. This adds moisture and a sweet, earthy layer of flavor.
- Top and glaze the sliders:
- Place the top halves of the slider rolls firmly over the layered bottoms. Melt five tablespoons of butter and stir in Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and poppy seeds. Brush or spoon the glaze evenly over the tops of all the sliders. This will create a golden brown, flavorful crust when baked.
- Bake until melty and warm:
- Bake the assembled sliders at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 to 15 minutes, just until the cheese melts, the insides are warmed through, and the top gets a slight crust from the glazed butter.
My favorite part of this recipe has to be the creamy horseradish mayo because it adds that perfect little zing that lifts all the flavors. On a family level, these sliders always bring back memories of lively game nights when everyone gathered around the TV with plates piled high. It’s a dish that invites sharing and conversation.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through, about 10 minutes. You can also freeze fully assembled sliders before baking in a sealed container or wrapped tightly in foil for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swiss cheese or mozzarella can be swapped for provolone without losing the meltiness or mild flavor. For a little more tang, try sharp cheddar but reduce horseradish slightly. If you prefer less spice, omit the horseradish from the mayo mix and serve it on the side for those who want it. If Hawaiian rolls are not available, soft dinner rolls or slider buns work well in a pinch.
Serving Suggestions
These sliders are perfect finger foods for parties and pair nicely with simple sides like coleslaw, potato chips, or a crunchy pickle spear. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables can round out the meal nicely if serving for dinner. A cold beer or sparkling water complements the rich flavors wonderfully.
These roast beef sliders are quick to assemble and perfect for feeding a crowd. Serve them warm and enjoy the mix of savory beef, melty cheese, and sweet glazed tops.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of cheese works best with these sliders?
Mild cheeses like provolone or mozzarella complement the robust roast beef flavor well. Swiss or mild cheddar are good alternatives for variation.
- → Can these sliders be prepared in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the sliders the night before and pour the glaze on top. Store in a covered pan and bake just before serving.
- → How do you keep the rolls from becoming soggy?
To avoid sogginess, toast the bottom halves slightly before spreading the sauce or serve the creamy sauce on the side.
- → What is the purpose of the glaze on top?
The glaze of butter, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and poppy seeds adds flavor and helps create a golden, appetizing crust on the rolls.
- → Can I customize the toppings?
Yes, you can add sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or swap cheeses easily to suit your taste preferences.