Roast Beef Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls

There’s something deeply comforting about a warm, melty roast beef slider fresh out of the oven. The sweet, fluffy Hawaiian rolls, the savory roast beef, the gooey cheese, and that golden buttery glaze—it all just hits right.

I first whipped up these roast beef sliders on a rainy Sunday when we had a bunch of friends coming over to watch the game. I wanted something casual but indulgent, something you could pick up with one hand but that felt hearty and special. These sliders delivered all that and more.

This is the kind of recipe that becomes a regular in your rotation. Whether it’s for a family gathering, potluck, holiday party, or just a cozy weeknight dinner, these sliders are reliable crowd-pleasers. They come together quickly, are easy to make ahead, and have that irresistible sweet-and-savory combo everyone loves.

Stick around—because once you know how simple and satisfying this recipe is, you’ll want to make it again and again.

Why I Love This Recipe

I always say that the best recipes don’t just taste good—they feel good to make. And this one? It checks all the boxes.

These roast beef sliders are a game-changer. Why? Because they’re perfect for just about every occasion. You can serve them as party appetizers, a lunchbox surprise, or a cozy dinner with soup on the side. They’re also super portable and reheat like a dream.

But what really makes them special is how they balance flavors and textures. The soft and lightly sweet Hawaiian rolls hug layers of thinly sliced roast beef and melty provolone or Swiss cheese. Then comes the magic: a buttery glaze made with Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic that soaks into the rolls and crisps up beautifully in the oven.

These sliders are savory, tangy, buttery, cheesy—and just a little sweet. Every bite is balanced and satisfying. They feel like comfort food but are elegant enough to serve at any gathering. And if you’re someone who loves a recipe that earns you compliments without a ton of stress, this one’s it.

Ingredients for Roast Beef Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls

Before we get started, let’s talk about what makes these sliders pop. The secret isn’t just in what you use—but how you layer it.

Here’s everything you’ll need for this cozy, flavor-packed dish:

• Hawaiian rolls – You’ll need one package of 12 rolls. These are the heart of the recipe. Their subtle sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory roast beef and rich glaze.
• Roast beef – Thinly sliced deli-style roast beef works best. Go for a quality cut with visible marbling for added flavor and moisture.
• Cheese – Provolone and Swiss are classic choices here, but you can swap in your favorites (more on that in the substitutions section).
• Butter – Unsalted is best so you can control the salt level in the glaze. This is what gives the sliders that golden, crispy top.
• Dijon mustard – Adds just the right amount of tanginess to balance the richness.
• Worcestershire sauce – Deepens the umami and ties the flavors together.
• Garlic powder – For a mellow garlic flavor without overwhelming the dish.
• Poppy seeds (optional) – Sprinkle them on top for a little crunch and classic slider style.

All of these ingredients are easy to find and budget-friendly. And if you’ve got a few pantry staples, you’re already halfway there.

How Much Time Will You Need

This recipe is quick and efficient—especially when you’re feeding a hungry group. Here’s how the time breaks down:

• Prep time: 10–15 minutes
• Cook time: 20–25 minutes
• Total time: Around 35–40 minutes

That’s all it takes to create a warm, cheesy, flavor-packed dish that tastes like it came straight from a gourmet deli.

How to Make These Roast Beef Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls

Let’s walk through it, step by step. You don’t need any special equipment—just a baking dish, a small saucepan, and a knife for slicing.

Step – 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

While that heats up, grab a 9×13 baking dish and lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray. Set aside.

Step – 2: Slice the Rolls

Using a long serrated knife, slice the entire package of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally—do not separate the rolls. You want to create one big “slab” of tops and bottoms.

Place the bottom half of the rolls into your prepared baking dish.

Step – 3: Add the Roast Beef

Layer your sliced roast beef evenly across the bottom half of the rolls. Don’t be shy—pile it on for a nice meaty bite in each slider. If the roast beef is in long strips, you can fold or cut it to fit the shape of the rolls.

Step – 4: Add the Cheese

Lay slices of cheese over the roast beef, making sure each mini sandwich will get a melty, gooey portion. Depending on the size of your cheese slices, you might need to tear them to fit evenly.

Step – 5: Add the Tops

Carefully place the top half of the rolls back on, gently pressing them down so the whole sandwich stays together.

Step – 6: Make the Buttery Glaze

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, stir in Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Whisk everything together until fully combined.

Step – 7: Glaze the Rolls

Using a pastry brush or spoon, evenly spread the butter mixture over the tops of the rolls. Let the sauce drip down into the crevices—it’s what gives the sliders that golden, flavorful finish.

If you’re using poppy seeds, sprinkle them on now.

Step – 8: Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Then uncover and bake for another 8–10 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and slightly crispy.

Step – 9: Slice and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the sliders rest for 5 minutes. Then use a sharp knife to slice between the rolls. Serve them warm—and get ready for everyone to ask for seconds.

Substitutions

There’s lots of room to make this recipe your own. Here are some tasty substitutions that still keep the magic alive:

• Meat: Try turkey, pastrami, or even pulled pork instead of roast beef. Thin-sliced prime rib would also take this to another level.
• Cheese: Swiss and provolone are the classics, but mozzarella, Havarti, white cheddar, or pepper jack bring their own twist.
• Mustard: No Dijon? Use spicy brown or even honey mustard for a slightly sweeter kick.
• Bread: If you don’t have Hawaiian rolls, try soft dinner rolls or brioche sliders. Just make sure they’re fluffy and slightly sweet.
• Gluten-Free: Swap in gluten-free slider rolls and make sure your Worcestershire sauce is GF-certified.

Play around with what you have—this recipe is flexible and forgiving.

Best Side Dishes for Roast Beef Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls

Want to round out the meal? These sliders pair perfectly with a variety of sides. Here are three no-fail options:

• Creamy coleslaw – Adds a cool, crunchy contrast to the warm, melty sliders.
• Oven-baked potato wedges – Hearty and satisfying without overpowering the main dish.
• Tomato basil soup – Dip the sliders in it for the ultimate cozy meal combo.

These sides keep things casual but complete—and are just as easy to whip up as the sliders themselves.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation matters—especially when you’re serving a crowd. You want something that looks as good as it tastes. These roast beef sliders are naturally cute and compact, but with a few small tweaks, you can elevate them from simple to stunning.

One of my favorite tricks is to place them on a wooden serving board lined with parchment. Slice them cleanly, but keep them nestled together in groups of four or six. That slightly rustic, casual-chic look gets people reaching for seconds.

Garnish the serving tray with sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme for a pop of color and a subtle aroma. Want to go a step further? Add a ramekin of horseradish mayo or au jus on the side for dipping.

If you’re serving them at a party, stick small toothpicks or slider picks into the tops for easy grabbing—bonus if they’re decorative. For game day spreads, place these next to chips and dip and watch them disappear first.

Tips and Tricks to Make This Recipe Better

Want next-level sliders that taste like you got them from a cozy bistro? These are my tried-and-true tips:

• Toast the bottom buns before layering anything on them. A quick 3-5 minutes in the oven will help prevent sogginess and give the sliders more structure.
• Warm your roast beef slightly before assembling. Cold roast beef straight from the fridge can cool everything down. A quick 30 seconds in the microwave makes all the difference.
• Don’t skimp on the glaze. It’s the buttery glaze that gives this recipe its signature flavor and golden crust. Make sure to brush it generously and let it seep into all the nooks and crannies.
• Let the sliders rest after baking. This helps the cheese set just enough so they hold together beautifully when sliced.
• Add a little crunch. If you like contrast, tuck a few crispy fried onions inside before baking. It’s a small upgrade with a big payoff.

These small adjustments can take your sliders from “really good” to “why haven’t I made this sooner?”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this is a pretty foolproof recipe, a few missteps can sneak in. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients – Cold roast beef and cheese can make the sliders cook unevenly and cool down fast after baking. Let everything sit out for a few minutes before assembling.
• Not covering the sliders while baking – The foil is essential in the first phase to trap moisture and help the cheese melt without burning the tops.
• Slicing the rolls unevenly – If you don’t slice the Hawaiian rolls evenly, you’ll have some too-thin tops or thick bottoms. Use a sharp serrated knife and take your time.
• Overloading with too much meat or cheese – It’s tempting, I know, but too much filling can make the sliders hard to hold and cause the bread to fall apart. Balance is key.
• Skipping the rest time – Fresh from the oven, the sliders are piping hot and gooey. Give them 5 minutes to set before slicing—it makes serving way easier.

If you keep these tips in mind, your sliders will turn out perfectly every time.

How to Store It

Leftovers? Lucky you! These sliders store and reheat beautifully.

Storing:
Place any leftover sliders in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:
To reheat, wrap the sliders in foil and place them in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes. This keeps the bread soft and the filling warm without drying it out. You can also microwave them for 30 seconds if you’re in a rush, but the texture is better with oven reheating.

Freezing:
Want to prep ahead? Assemble the sliders, wrap tightly in foil, and freeze (before baking). When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.

FAQ

Can I make these roast beef sliders ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble them fully (minus the glaze), cover tightly with foil, and store in the fridge up to a day in advance. Just add the glaze right before baking.

Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely. Soft dinner rolls or brioche buns work well. Just make sure they’re small, fluffy, and hold up to the glaze and baking.

Can I serve these cold?
Technically, yes—but they really shine when served warm. The cheese melts, the glaze crisps up, and the flavor is much better that way.

What cheese works best?
Swiss and provolone are classics, but you can also try white cheddar, Havarti, or even pepper jack if you like a little spice.

Are these good for kids?
Yes! Kids love the sweet rolls and gooey cheese. You can leave out the Dijon mustard in the glaze if your little ones prefer a milder flavor.

Print