Cheesy Ham Sliders on a Portable Charcoal Grill: The Ultimate Camping & Tailgating Recipe

When it comes to group grilling recipes, nothing beats the smoky, melty goodness of cheesy ham sliders cooked over a portable charcoal grill. These buttery golden sandwiches strike the perfect balance between comfort food and gourmet camping snack.

Whether you’re tailgating with friends, gathering around a collapsible outdoor grill before kickoff, or firing up a flat pack fire pit grill on your next camping trip, these sliders deliver flavor, portability, and fire-kissed perfection.

Why Ham Sliders Are the Perfect Camping & Tailgate Recipe

Grilling outdoors isn’t just about eating—it’s about connection. Cooking sliders over a charcoal or wood fire grill brings people together in a way propane stoves simply can’t match. The smoky aroma of burning coals instantly creates an atmosphere of warmth and community.

Here’s why this camping ham slider recipe is always a hit:

  • Easy to transport – Hawaiian rolls, sliced ham, and cheese pack easily into any cooler.
  • Cooked in batches – Feed a hungry crew after a hike, fishing trip, or football game.
  • Smoky fire-kissed flavor – A charcoal grill for camping adds depth you’ll never get indoors.
  • Adaptable to any grill – Works perfectly on everything from the compact BoxFire Grill Pit Stack to the larger RexFire Grill Pit Stack.

These sliders aren’t just food—they’re a tradition in the making for any tailgate or campsite cookout.

Ingredients for Fire-Grilled Ham Sliders

Here’s what you’ll need to make 12 sliders on your portable charcoal grill:

  • 12 Hawaiian rolls, sliced in half
  • ½ lb sliced ham (honey, smoked, or even campfire-roasted ham)
  • 6 slices Swiss or cheddar cheese, cut in half
  • ¼ cup butter, melted
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp poppy or sesame seeds (optional for topping)

Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Grill Ham Sliders Outdoors

Step 1: Preheat Your Grill

Set up your portable charcoal grill, flat pack fire pit grill, or camping wood fire grill. A model like the RingFire Flame Pit Stack makes camp cooking easy.

Step 2: Assemble the Sliders

On the bottom half of the rolls, layer ham and cheese. Place the tops back on to form sandwiches.

Step 3: Make the Butter Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and honey. This creates a savory-sweet glaze that adds a rich, tangy punch to your sliders.

Step 4: Brush & Grill

Brush the glaze generously on top of the rolls. Sprinkle with seeds for extra crunch.

Step 5: Grill Over Fire

Place the sliders on your tailgate charcoal grill (like the Switch Grill Stack). Cover with foil or a griddle lid to trap heat. Grill 3–4 minutes, flip carefully, then grill another 2–3 minutes until golden brown and melty.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Let cool slightly, then dig in! Perfect with a cold drink around the campfire or at the stadium.

Pro Tips for Group Grilling Success

  • Pack smart – Use resealable bags for cooler storage.
  • Fuel choice matters – Use charcoal briquettes for tailgating and hardwoods like oak or hickory for camping.
  • Skip propane – A charcoal grill (no propane needed) is safer, eco-friendlier, and more portable.
  • Make a double batch – If you’ve got a HexFire Grill Pit Stack, grill 24 sliders instead of 12. They’ll vanish fast.
  • Choose rugged gear – Heavy-duty options like the Full Weld Grill Stack or Foundry Grill Stack are built for serious campers.

Why Charcoal & Wood Fire Beat Propane for Tailgating

The great grilling debate—charcoal vs propane—always comes up at tailgates. Here’s why charcoal wins for sliders:

  • Charcoal grills (like the Switch Grill Stack) deliver that deep, smoky flavor that elevates ham and cheese.
  • Wood fire grills (like the RexFire Grill Pit Stack) create an authentic campfire cooking experience.
  • Eco-friendly fire pit grills reduce waste and last longer than disposable propane setups.

A flat pack fire pit grill gives you durability, sustainability, and flavor—all in one.

FAQ: Ham Sliders & Outdoor Grilling

1. What is the best small outdoor grill for sliders?
For portability, the BoxFire Grill Pit Stack or Switch Grill Stack are top picks. They pack flat, set up quickly, and are perfect for Hawaiian roll sliders.

2. What type of grill is healthiest?
Charcoal and wood fire grills are healthiest for outdoor cooking. Hardwoods like oak or hickory burn clean, while propane can sometimes leave a chemical aftertaste.

3. What is the safest outdoor grill for camping?
The safest grills are low-profile, sturdy fire pit grills like the Torchline Grill Stack or Full Weld Grill Stack. They’re stable, durable, and keep flames contained.

4. What are flat outdoor grills called?
They’re called flat pack grills. Models like the HexFire Grill Pit Stack fold down slim for transport but expand into a full cooking surface.

5. What are the three main types of outdoor grills?

For tailgating and camping, charcoal and wood fire grills win hands down.

These cheesy ham sliders on a portable charcoal grill aren’t just a recipe—they’re an outdoor tradition. Whether you’re camping deep in the woods, hosting a backyard fire grill night, or tailgating before the big game, these sliders bring people together with smoky flavor and shared moments.

Pack your Hawaiian rolls, ham, and cheese, grab your favorite StackFire Grill Pit, and let this recipe be the highlight of your next adventure.

🔥 Ready to fire up your own tradition? Explore the StackFire Stacks collection for the best portable charcoal grills designed for camping, tailgating, and beyond.