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Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Sliders: A Delightful Snack for Any Occasion

In the world of quick and scrumptious snacks, few can rival the ease and appeal of air fryer ham and cheese sliders. Perfect for game days, casual gatherings, or even as a delightful treat for lunch, these sliders are not only delicious but also remarkably simple to prepare. Using an air fryer not only ensures a crispy finish but also makes the cooking process faster and healthier than traditional frying methods. Let’s dive into how to make these scrumptious little bites!

Ingredients

To create these mouth-watering sliders, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Slider buns: 8 mini rolls (soft, brioche, or regular)
• Ham: 8 slices of your choice (honey-cured, smoked, or even a vegetarian alternative)
• Cheese: 8 slices of your preferred cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or Gruyère work wonderfully)
• Butter: 4 tablespoons, melted
• Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon
• Onion powder: ½ teaspoon
• Dried parsley: 1 teaspoon (optional, for a touch of freshness)
• Mustard: 2 tablespoons (optional, to add a bit of zing)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sliders

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Before you start assembling, preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) for about 3-5 minutes. This will ensure even cooking and a golden-brown finish.

2. Assemble the Sliders: Slice the slider buns in half horizontally. Spread mustard on the inside of the bottom halves if you’re using it for extra flavour. Layer each slider with a slice of ham followed by a slice of cheese. Finally, place the top halves of the buns back on.

Step 2: Make the Butter Mixture

1. Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder, onion powder, and dried parsley if using. This heavenly mixture not only adds richness but also infuses the sliders with aromatic flavours.

2. Brush the Sliders: Using a pastry brush, generously brush the tops of the assembled sliders with the garlic butter mixture. This helps to achieve a deliciously crispy crust when air-fried.

Step 3: Air Fry the Sliders

1. Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the sliders in the basket of the air fryer. Ensure they don’t touch too much to allow for even cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to do this in batches.

2. Cook the Sliders: Set the air fryer to 180°C (356°F) and cook the sliders for about 6-8 minutes. Halfway through, check on them and give the basket a shake to ensure even cooking. You’re looking for the cheese to be melty and the buns to be toasted to a lovely golden brown.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Cool and Serve: Once cooked, let the sliders cool for a minute before serving. This step allows the cheese to set slightly, making them easier to handle.

2. Garnish (Optional): For an extra touch, sprinkle a bit of fresh parsley on top before serving. Pair with your favourite dipping sauce or enjoy them as-is.

Conclusion

Air fryer ham and cheese sliders are an exceptional addition to your snacking repertoire. They offer a satisfying bite with a perfect balance of flavours and textures—crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside. Whether for a party or a cozy night in, these sliders are sure to impress both friends and family alike.

So, the next time you’re in need of a quick and delightful treat, break out the air fryer and give these scrumptious ham and cheese sliders a go! Savour every bite, knowing that you’ve created something truly delicious with minimal fuss. Happy munching!