Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Slice the slider buns horizontally and set the top and bottom halves aside.
If using onions, thinly slice and sauté in a skillet with a little butter until golden and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Set aside.
Spread a generous layer of barbecue sauce on the cut side of the bottom buns, creating a sticky, flavorful base.
Layer slices of ham evenly over the sauced buns, covering all the surface for maximum flavor.
Place slices of cheese over the ham, allowing them to melt into each layer when baked.
If using, sprinkle sautéed onions over the cheese for added sweetness and texture.
Top each slider with the upper bun half and brush the tops with melted butter mixed with garlic powder for a golden, flavorful crust.
Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and bake for 15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and the sliders are heated through.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the tops to brown slightly and become crispy.
Take the sliders out of the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to settle.
Use a sharp knife to slice through the sliders, pulling apart the messy, cheesy layers for serving.
Enjoy these warm, gooey sliders with your favorite sides, savoring the smoky, sweet flavors and crispy edges.