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Introduction
These Independence Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleasing sandwiches for backyard barbecues, Fourth of July celebrations, game days, potlucks, and family gatherings. Made with tender shaved deli ham slow-cooked in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, these sliders are incredibly easy to prepare and packed with bold flavor. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with juicy, saucy ham that’s perfect for piling onto soft slider buns. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or looking for a simple party recipe, these sliders are guaranteed to disappear fast.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds shaved deli ham
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 16 slider buns
Optional Toppings
- Swiss cheese slices
- Provolone cheese
- Cheddar cheese
- Dill pickle slices
- Coleslaw
- Crispy fried onions
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ham
Place the shaved deli ham into the slow cooker. Use your hands to gently separate the slices so they heat evenly and don’t clump together.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard until smooth and well combined.
Pour the sauce evenly over the ham, making sure all of the meat is coated.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on Low for 2 to 3 hours, stirring once or twice during cooking if convenient. The ham should be hot, tender, and coated in the thick, flavorful sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the Sliders
Stir the ham well before serving. Spoon a generous portion onto each slider bun.
If desired, top each slider with cheese, pickles, coleslaw, or your favorite toppings.
Serve immediately while warm.
Variations & Tips
Make It Cheesy
Add a slice of Swiss, provolone, or cheddar cheese to each slider. For melted cheese, place the assembled sliders on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes.
Add More Sweetness
For a sweeter flavor, use honey barbecue sauce or stir an additional 1 to 2 tablespoons of brown sugar into the sauce before cooking.
Add a Tangy Twist
Mix in a tablespoon of pickle juice or a little extra Dijon mustard just before serving for a brighter, tangier flavor.
Make Ahead
Prepare the ham mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it after it cools. Reheat in the slow cooker on Low or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if the sauce becomes too thick.
Serving a Crowd
Keep the slow cooker on the Warm setting during parties so guests can build their own sliders. This keeps the buns fresh and prevents them from becoming soggy.
Conclusion
These Independence Sliders are a simple yet satisfying recipe that’s perfect for entertaining. The combination of tender ham, smoky barbecue sauce, sweet brown sugar, and tangy Dijon mustard creates an irresistible filling that’s delicious on soft slider buns. With minimal prep and easy slow cooker cooking, this recipe is ideal for holidays, cookouts, tailgates, and casual family dinners. Make a batch for your next gathering, and don’t be surprised when everyone comes back for seconds!
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