Classic Funeral Sandwiches Recipe (A Make-Ahead Favorite)

There’s something truly special about a dish that brings comfort and warmth, especially when shared with loved ones. This Classic Funeral Sandwiches Recipe, with its savory ham, melted Swiss, and sweet-tangy glaze baked into King’s Hawaiian rolls, is more than just a meal; it’s a hug in sandwich form, perfect for those moments when we need a little solace or a simple, delicious gathering.

I remember countless afternoons in my grandmother’s kitchen, the scent of cinnamon and warm butter filling the air as she taught me that the best recipes are often the simplest, made with love and shared with joy. It’s that same spirit of heartwarming generosity that these savory sliders embody, reminding me of all the sweet memories we’ve created around the table.

This delightful dish is not only incredibly easy to prepare, making it a dream for busy hosts, but it’s also wonderfully adaptable for any gathering, big or small. My top tip? Always taste your glaze before brushing; a little adjustment can make all the difference!

What You Need to Make This Recipe

Crafting these delightful sliders, often known as a classic Funeral Sandwiches Recipe, requires just a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create something truly magical. The King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls provide that perfect tender base, while the blend of Dijon, Worcestershire, and onion powder in the buttery glaze elevates the deli ham and Swiss cheese to pure perfection. You’ll find the complete list of ingredients and precise measurements in the recipe card below.

How to Make Funeral Sandwiches Recipe

Whipping up this Funeral Sandwiches Recipe is a breeze! You’ll start by assembling the ham and Swiss onto the sweet King’s Hawaiian rolls. Next, a quick whisk of butter, Dijon, Worcestershire, onion powder, and poppy seeds creates that irresistible savory-sweet glaze. Pour it over your sliders, let them soak up the goodness, and then bake until golden and bubbly. It’s a simple process that yields incredibly satisfying results.

Classic Funeral Ham & Swiss Sliders

These beloved Funeral Sandwiches Recipe sliders feature layers of savory ham and nutty Swiss cheese on soft Hawaiian rolls, baked in a delectable buttery, mustard, and poppy seed glaze. They’re perfect for potlucks, parties, or an easy family meal, always a crowd-pleaser.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 12 pieces

Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 280

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Sandwiches

• 1 package King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls (12 count)
• 1 lb Deli ham thinly sliced (such as Black Forest or honey ham)
• 8 oz Swiss cheese thinly sliced

For the Poppy Seed Glaze

• 1/2 cup Unsalted butter melted
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp Onion powder
• 1 tbsp Poppy seeds

Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Small Mixing Bowl
• Saucepan or microwave-safe bowl
• Pastry brush (optional)
• Sharp serrated knife

Method

 

Prepare the Sandwiches

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Using a long, sharp serrated knife, carefully slice the entire block of Hawaiian rolls horizontally through the middle, keeping them connected. Place the bottom half of the rolls in the prepared baking dish.
3. Layer the ham over the bottom rolls, ensuring an even layer. Then, place the Swiss cheese slices over the ham. Finally, place the top half of the rolls over the cheese layer.

Make the Glaze

1. In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Remove from heat and stir in the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and onion powder until well combined.
2. Stir in the poppy seeds. This is your signature Funeral Sandwiches Recipe glaze.

Bake and Serve

1. Evenly pour the poppy seed glaze over the top of the assembled sandwiches. You can use a pastry brush to ensure full coverage if desired.
2. Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 10 minutes. This allows the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld.
3. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the tops of the rolls are golden brown and slightly crispy. Be careful not to overbake, as the glaze can burn.
4. Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Let the sandwiches rest for 5 minutes before cutting along the original roll perforations to separate them. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Funeral Sandwiches Recipe!

Notes

Make Ahead Tip: Assemble the sandwiches and pour the glaze over them. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. If baking from cold, you might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time. These sliders are best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days and reheated gently in the oven or microwave.

Pro Tips for Making This Funeral Sandwiches Recipe

Crafting the perfect batch of this Funeral Sandwiches Recipe is all about those little touches that elevate a good dish to a great one. Don’t rush the assembly; neatly stacking the ham and cheese ensures every bite is perfectly balanced.

My Secret Trick: I always give the assembled sliders a good 10-15 minutes to rest after pouring the glaze over them and before baking. This allows those beautiful flavors to truly meld and soak into the rolls, making them incredibly moist and flavorful.

When making your glaze, ensure your butter is fully melted and all the ingredients are well combined. A quick whisk ensures every slider gets an even coating of that delicious, golden sauce.

For an extra crispy top, remove the foil during the last 5-7 minutes of baking. This allows the rolls to get beautifully golden brown and the poppy seeds to toast up nicely.

Fun Variations for Funeral Sandwiches Recipe

Part of the joy of baking and cooking is making a recipe truly your own, and this Funeral Sandwiches Recipe is wonderfully versatile! If you’re looking to switch things up, here are a few ideas.

Cheese Swaps

While Swiss is classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses! My friend loves when I use provolone or even a sharp white cheddar for a bolder flavor profile. Muenster also melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture.

Meat Alternatives

Beyond deli ham, consider using thinly sliced turkey or roast beef for a different twist. A combination of ham and turkey can be lovely too. For a spicier kick, my brother always asks me to add a thin slice of pepperoni or salami.

Glaze Enhancements

Want to play with the glaze? A tiny dash of garlic powder can add another layer of savory depth. Or, for a touch more sweetness, a teaspoon of brown sugar can be delightful, especially when paired with a spicier mustard.

What to Serve With Funeral Sandwiches Recipe

These delightful sliders, our beloved Funeral Sandwiches Recipe, are so versatile that they pair beautifully with a variety of sides, making them perfect for any occasion, from a casual brunch to a comforting family dinner. I often find myself reaching for simple, fresh accompaniments to balance their savory richness.

A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is always a lovely choice, adding a refreshing contrast. For something a bit more substantial, a warm bowl of [[Hearty Beef Stew]] or a creamy tomato soup makes for a wonderfully comforting meal. My mom always pairs them with a simple fruit salad, especially in the warmer months, as the sweetness of the fruit is a perfect counterpoint to the savory ham and cheese. A quick side of [[Easy Chicken Noodle Soup]] can also be a delightful pairing, creating a comforting and complete meal.

How to Store Funeral Sandwiches Recipe

One of the beauties of this Funeral Sandwiches Recipe is how well it keeps, allowing you to enjoy those comforting flavors even after the first sitting. Proper storage ensures they remain as delicious as when they first came out of the oven.

Refrigeration

If you have any leftovers, simply transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 2-3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, I like to pop them back into a preheated oven (around 300°F/150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through, for that freshly baked feel.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked sliders! Assemble them as directed, but don’t add the poppy seeds yet. Wrap the pan tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. They can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before adding the poppy seeds and baking as usual. My personal tip? Always write the date on the foil, so you know exactly when they were prepared!

Nutritional Benefits

While this Funeral Sandwiches Recipe is undeniably a comforting treat, it also offers some noteworthy elements. The deli ham provides a good source of protein, and Swiss cheese contributes calcium for bone health. Paired with the whole grains of the King’s Hawaiian rolls, this dish offers a satisfying blend, proving that a treat can be both indulgent and nourishing when made with simple, quality ingredients.

FAQs

Faq 1

Can I prepare this Funeral Sandwiches Recipe the night before?

Absolutely! You can assemble the sliders and pour the glaze over them, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.

Faq 2

What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?

While Dijon adds a unique tang, a good quality spicy brown mustard can be substituted in this Funeral Sandwiches Recipe. Start with a slightly smaller amount and adjust to your taste preferences.

Faq 3

Can I make these sliders vegetarian?

Certainly! To make a vegetarian version of this Funeral Sandwiches Recipe, omit the ham and fill with slices of smoked Gouda or provolone, perhaps with a layer of caramelized onions or roasted red peppers.

Faq 4

How do I prevent the rolls from getting soggy?

Allowing the sliders to sit for a bit after glazing helps the rolls absorb the liquid evenly. Also, avoid over-glazing. Baking covered initially and then uncovered helps achieve a perfect balance of moisture and a crisp top for your Funeral Sandwiches Recipe.

Conclusion

There you have it, dear bakers — a truly timeless Classic Funeral Sandwiches Recipe that’s sure to bring smiles and comfort to any table. It’s a dish that, much like my grandmother’s heartfelt treats, embodies the simple joy of sharing good food and creating lasting memories. So, gather your ingredients, infuse them with a little love, and delight in the magic of homemade goodness. Happy baking, and may your kitchen always be filled with sweet aromas and even sweeter moments!