The name “funeral sandwiches” may sound unusual, but these warm, buttery ham and cheese sliders are a beloved comfort food in many parts of the United States. Despite the somber name, they’re served at all kinds of occasions—from family gatherings and potlucks to game days, holiday parties, and casual lunches.
So why are they called funeral sandwiches? And what makes them so popular? Let’s take a closer look.
Why Are They Called Funeral Sandwiches?
Funeral sandwiches earned their name because they’re commonly served at post-funeral receptions, where friends and family gather to share a meal and support one another.
These sandwiches became a favorite because they are:
- Easy to prepare in large batches
- Budget-friendly
- Simple to transport
- Warm and comforting
- Easy to serve to a crowd
Over time, they became associated with these gatherings, even though they’re now enjoyed for many other occasions.
What Are Funeral Sandwiches?
Funeral sandwiches are baked ham and cheese sliders made with soft dinner rolls, layered with sliced ham and cheese, then brushed with a flavorful butter topping before baking until golden and melty.
The result is a warm, savory sandwich with a buttery, slightly crispy top and gooey melted cheese inside.
Ingredients
You’ll need:
For the Sandwiches
- 12 soft Hawaiian rolls or dinner rolls
- 12 slices deli ham
- 6 slices Swiss cheese (or cheddar, provolone, or mozzarella)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon or yellow mustard (optional)
For the Butter Topping
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
How to Make Funeral Sandwiches
Step 1: Prepare the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Without separating the rolls, slice the entire sheet of rolls horizontally.
Place the bottom half into a greased baking dish.
Step 2: Add the Filling
Spread a thin layer of mustard or mayonnaise if desired.
Layer with:
- Ham
- Cheese
Place the top half of the rolls back on.
Step 3: Make the Butter Glaze
In a bowl, whisk together:
- Melted butter
- Dijon mustard
- Worcestershire sauce
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Parsley
- Poppy seeds
Brush generously over the tops of the rolls.
Step 4: Bake
Cover loosely with foil.
Bake for 15 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake another 5–10 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the cheese has melted.
Step 5: Serve
Allow the sandwiches to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
They pair well with:
- Potato salad
- Coleslaw
- Pickles
- Chips
- Soup
- Fresh fruit
Delicious Variations
Try different combinations such as:
- Turkey and cheddar
- Roast beef and provolone
- Chicken and mozzarella
- Ham with pepper jack
- Vegetarian with grilled vegetables and cheese
Storage Tips
Leftover sandwiches can be:
- Refrigerated for up to 3 days
- Reheated in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 10 minutes
- Frozen (wrapped well) for up to 2 months
Why Everyone Loves Them
Funeral sandwiches have remained popular because they’re:
- Quick to make
- Great for feeding a crowd
- Comforting and filling
- Easy to customize
- Perfect for holidays, parties, picnics, and family gatherings
Their unusual name reflects a long-standing tradition of bringing simple, homemade food to families during times of loss. Today, however, these warm ham-and-cheese sliders are enjoyed far beyond funeral receptions and have become a classic comfort food for any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for an easy baked sandwich recipe, funeral sandwiches are a delicious, crowd-pleasing option that’s as practical as it is comforting.