If you’re looking for a delightful twist on a classic favorite, this Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food. Imagine soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls cradling perfectly melted cheddar, with a buttery, golden crust that gives you that irresistible crunch. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal, this recipe brings together simple ingredients and straightforward steps to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Get ready to discover why this Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe is such a beloved treat in so many kitchens.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simplicity, with every ingredient playing a vital role in flavor and texture. From the sweet softness of the rolls to the savory, melty cheese and the rich butter that crisps everything to perfection, these components blend together beautifully.
- Hawaiian sweet rolls (1 pack, 12-count): The star of the show, these rolls offer a slightly sweet and pillowy base that elevates the grilled cheese experience.
- Cheddar cheese slices (8–10 slices): Choose a melty cheese like cheddar for that quintessential gooey, stretchy inside.
- Butter (2 tablespoons, softened or melted): Essential for creating that beautiful golden browning on the sandwich’s outside.
- Optional garlic powder: A quick sprinkle adds subtle, aromatic depth to the buttery tops.
- Sliced ham: For a savory, meaty addition that pairs perfectly with the sweet rolls and cheese.
- Tomato slices: Add freshness and a slight tang, balancing richness in every bite.
How to Make Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Rolls
Begin by slicing your entire sheet of Hawaiian rolls horizontally—but don’t slice them apart into individual buns. Keeping the rolls connected like this helps them hold together through the grilling process and makes layering the cheese and fillings much easier.
Step 2: Layer the Cheese (and Optional Fillings)
Next, lay your cheddar cheese slices evenly across the bottom half of the sliced rolls. If you love a little extra savory punch, now is the time to add optional ingredients like slices of ham or fresh tomato. This layering creates pockets of melty, flavorful bliss that you won’t be able to resist.
Step 3: Top and Press
After all your cheesy, meaty goodness is in place, carefully set the top half of the rolls back on, pressing down gently to compact everything together. This also helps the sandwich hold its shape as it grills, ensuring each mini sandwich pulls away neatly when served.
Step 4: Butter Up
Now it’s time to generously brush the tops of the sandwich with softened or melted butter. This step is key to achieving that golden, crisp crust we all know and love on a grilled cheese. For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some garlic powder over the buttered surface before grilling.
Step 5: Grill to Perfection
Heat up your skillet or griddle over medium heat and gently grill your sandwich, cooking each side for about 3–4 minutes. Press down lightly as it cooks to encourage even grilling and ensure that cheese melts uniformly. You’ll know it’s ready when the tops are golden brown and the cheese inside is ooey-gooey.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Once grilled, slice the sandwich into individual mini sandwiches along the original roll lines. Serve these warm, and prepare yourself for a delicious combination of gooey cheese, tender rolls, and crispy exterior that’s simply irresistible.
How to Serve Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe with simple garnishes like a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a few thin slices of green onion. These add a pop of color and a fresh hint of flavor that complements the richness of the sandwich beautifully. A light drizzle of honey mustard or a side of spicy ketchup can also add a zesty kick if you want to mix things up.
Side Dishes
This grilled cheese pairs wonderfully with classic sides like crispy fries or a simple mixed green salad for balance. For a more fun, casual meal, try serving it alongside a cup of tomato soup—the acidity of the soup perfectly counters the sweet rolls and savory cheese. Fresh fruit or pickles also cut through the richness, creating a refreshing contrast on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting a casual get-together or want to impress kids at lunch, presenting the sandwiches as colorful sliders on a large platter is a delightful approach. You can even thread a skewer through each mini sandwich to keep them neat and add a fun touch. To add variety, try mixing different fillings in sections, such as ham and tomato in some and just cheese in others. It’s a great way to cater to diverse tastes while keeping the simple, comforting base intact.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store your Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese sandwiches in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a few hours. For longer storage, refrigeration is best to prevent sogginess and keep the cheese fresh.
Freezing
You can freeze these mini sandwiches, but it’s best to do so before grilling. Wrap the fully assembled sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator before grilling to bring out that delicious fresh-from-the-pan flavor and texture.
Reheating
To reheat leftover grilled cheese, use a skillet or toaster oven rather than a microwave. This reheating method helps restore the crispy, buttery exterior while ensuring the inside cheese is melted and gooey again. A quick 2 to 3-minute cook on medium heat is usually enough to bring these mini sandwiches back to life.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese for this Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar is a classic choice, you can try mozzarella, Swiss, provolone, or even a spicy pepper jack to add different flavor profiles. Just make sure the cheese melts well for that perfect texture.
Is it necessary to keep the rolls connected during preparation?
Keeping the rolls connected helps with ease of assembly and grilling, making sure the sandwiches don’t fall apart. It also allows for a more even press and melt inside. You can separate after grilling if you prefer individual servings.
What if I don’t have Hawaiian rolls?
While Hawaiian rolls add a sweet contrast that’s key to this recipe, you can substitute with any soft, slightly sweet buns or slider rolls. Just keep in mind the overall flavor will be a bit different.
Can I add other fillings besides ham and tomato?
Definitely! Bacon, turkey, sautéed mushrooms, or caramelized onions all make excellent additions that complement the cheese and rolls wonderfully.
How do I prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy?
To avoid sogginess, make sure to use softened butter and grill on medium heat, pressing gently but not too hard. Also, avoid adding overly watery ingredients before grilling, or pat them dry first.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly nothing quite like the combination of fluffy Hawaiian rolls and gooey, golden grilled cheese, and this Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe captures that magic in every bite. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick snack, a party platter, or a cozy dinner, it’s a recipe that brings a smile with every mouthful. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to these irresistible mini sandwiches—you won’t regret it!
Print
Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 mini sandwiches
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese sandwiches combine the sweet, fluffy texture of Hawaiian rolls with melted cheddar cheese for a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. Perfect as a snack or party appetizer, these mini sandwiches are easy to prepare, customizable with optional ham or tomato slices, and grilled to golden perfection with a buttery, garlicky crust.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pack (12-count) Hawaiian sweet rolls (e.g., King’s Hawaiian)
- 8–10 slices cheddar cheese (or any melty cheese)
- 2 tablespoons butter (softened or melted)
Optional Ingredients
- Garlic powder (to taste)
- Sliced ham (as desired)
- Tomato slices (as desired)
Instructions
- Prep Rolls: Slice the entire sheet of Hawaiian rolls horizontally in half, being careful not to separate the individual rolls.
- Layer Cheese: Evenly place slices of cheddar cheese over the bottom half of the rolls. Add optional fillings like sliced ham or tomato slices if desired.
- Top & Press: Place the top half of the rolls back over the cheese and press gently to compact the sandwich.
- Butter: Brush the top of the rolls with softened or melted butter, then sprinkle garlic powder on top for extra flavor if desired.
- Grill: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the assembled sandwich and grill each side for 3 to 4 minutes, pressing slightly to ensure even cooking, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
- Serve: Slice the grilled sandwich into individual mini sandwiches and serve warm for best taste.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, try using smoked cheddar or adding a slice of ham.
- To add freshness, include tomato slices but be mindful they may release moisture.
- Use a panini press if you prefer even grilling and pressing all at once.
- Make sure the skillet is not too hot to avoid burning the bread before the cheese melts.
- Butter can be substituted with olive oil for a different flavor profile.
