Name: Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese: Sweet Comfort in Every Bite
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 12 rolls King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls; 1/2 cup Butter (softened) (Tip: Opt for unsalted butter for optimal seasoning control.); 1/2 teaspoon Oregano (Substitution Note: Italian seasoning works wonderfully in place of oregano.); 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Tip: Fresh minced garlic can enhance the taste for garlic lovers.); 1 tablespoon Parsley (Substitution Note: Dried parsley serves as a decent alternative if fresh isn’t available.); 2 cups Cheese of choice (cheddar recommended) (Tip: Explore mixing different cheeses for a richer taste experience.)

As the aroma of sizzling butter mingles with the sweet scent of freshly baked rolls, I can’t help but smile—I’ve found my secret weapon for comfort food cravings. This Hawaiian Roll Mini Grilled Cheese recipe transforms the familiar into something truly extraordinary. Picture soft, tender King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls, lovingly slathered with a savory garlic herb butter, enveloping gooey cheese that melts on your tongue. Not only is this dish a breeze to whip up on a hectic weeknight, but it also doubles as a crowd-pleasing snack for game days or cozy movie nights. Ready to indulge in a bite-sized version of a classic favorite that will leave everyone asking for more? Let’s dive into the buttery, cheesy goodness together!

Why Is This Recipe a Must-Try?

Comforting, Bite-Sized Delight: These Hawaiian Roll Mini Grilled Cheese sandwiches are the perfect remedy for those seeking a cozy, indulgent snack. Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is ideal for home cooks at any level. Versatile Options: Feel free to play around with different cheeses or add some spicy jalapeños for an exciting twist! Perfect Pairing: Serve them alongside a creamy tomato soup for a delicious, comforting meal reminiscent of childhood. Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these tasty bites, making them an excellent choice for family gatherings or game day munching!

Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Ingredients

For the Sandwiches
King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls – The sweet base of the recipe, providing a fluffy texture that complements the gooey cheese perfectly. Substitution Note: Switch to regular sandwich rolls, but they won’t deliver the same delightful sweetness.
Butter (softened) – Adds richness and aids in creating that lovely golden brown crust. Tip: Opt for unsalted butter for optimal seasoning control.
Oregano (½ tsp) – Infuses a herby flavor that beautifully enhances the cheese. Substitution Note: Italian seasoning works wonderfully in place of oregano.
Garlic Powder (½ tsp) – Delivers a robust flavor to the garlic herb butter. Tip: Fresh minced garlic can enhance the taste for garlic lovers.
Parsley (1 tbsp) – Offers a pop of color and a fresh taste that elevates the dish. Substitution Note: Dried parsley serves as a decent alternative if fresh isn’t available.
Cheese of choice (cheddar recommended) – For that iconic gooey texture, cheddar is an excellent choice. Tip: Explore mixing different cheeses for a richer taste experience.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Roll Mini Grilled Cheese

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures that the Hawaiian Roll Mini Grilled Cheese gets golden brown and perfectly toasted. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients and equipment, including a baking sheet and a small mixing bowl for the garlic herb butter.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter
In a small mixing bowl, combine softened butter with oregano, garlic powder, and chopped parsley. Stir the mixture until it’s well blended, creating a fragrant garlic herb butter. This tasty spread will not only add flavor to your mini grilled cheese sandwiches but also help achieve that lovely crispy crust as they bake.

Step 3: Slice the Rolls
Take each King’s Hawaiian roll and slice them into thirds, creating little sandwich pieces. This will be the cozy vessel for your gooey cheese. As you slice, try to keep the rolls intact, allowing for easy assembly later on. Lay the sliced rolls out on a clean surface, ready for buttering.

Step 4: Spread the Butter Mixture
Generously spread the garlic herb butter mixture onto each slice of the mini rolls. Ensure that each piece is well-coated to infuse maximum flavor into your Hawaiian Roll Mini Grilled Cheese. This steps sets the stage for a delightful combination of sweet rolls and savory herb butter delight that will shine during baking.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches
On a baking sheet, start assembling your mini grilled cheese sandwiches by stacking your preferred cheese between two buttered slices of the Hawaiian rolls. Repeat this for all slices, ensuring that the cheese is evenly distributed for that melty, gooey texture. Leave a little space between each sandwich for even cooking.

Step 6: Bake the Sandwiches
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through the baking time, flip each mini grilled cheese to promote even browning and maintain crispiness. Keep an eye on them—the goal is a beautiful golden finish that will make your mouth water!

Step 7: Serve Warm
Once baked to perfection, remove the Hawaiian Roll Mini Grilled Cheese from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve these tasty bites warm, ideally paired with a side of creamy tomato soup for dipping. They’re perfect for a cozy family meal or snack time that will surely have everyone reaching for more.

Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your Hawaiian Roll Mini Grilled Cheese for a fun twist on this already delightful recipe!

Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or pepper jack cheese to bring some heat to your sandwiches. For those who love a little spice, this variation amps up the flavor while still keeping it comforting.
Cheesy Goodness: Experiment with different cheese types, such as mozzarella or gouda, for a unique melting experience. Mixing cheeses not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds an exciting texture that varies with each bite.
Bacon Infusion: Incorporate crispy cooked bacon or ham for a heartier version. The addition of savory meat complements the sweetness of the rolls perfectly. Just imagine each bite filled with gooey cheese and that salty richness—what’s not to love?
Veggie Delight: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a burst of color and veggies. This variation still retains that nostalgic grilled cheese vibe while sneaking in some nutrition for those looking to lighten it up.
Sweet and Savory: Try adding a layer of peach or apricot jam inside the rolls before stacking the cheese. The combination of sweet, fruity goodness with gooey cheese creates a surprisingly delightful taste sensation.
Garlic Lovers: Use fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder for a bolder flavor. You can even roast the garlic first for an even creamier, sweeter taste. This twist is for those who truly can’t get enough garlic in their lives!
Herb Infusion: Elevate the flavor by adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the garlic butter. These aromatic additions transform your mini grilled cheese into something truly special and delightful.
California Roll Twist: Inspired by sushi, add slices of avocado and cucumber to your sandwiches. This refreshing spin not only tastes amazing but also adds a lovely crunch and silky texture.

If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, why not pair your Hawaiian Roll Mini Grilled Cheese with a comforting bowl of creamy tomato soup or mix them up with some delicious Pepperoni Pizza Roll flavors? Each variation is an opportunity to create lasting memories around the dining table!

What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll Mini Grilled Cheese?

Imagine a cozy gathering where the aroma of your delicious Hawaiian Roll Mini Grilled Cheese fills the air, inviting everyone to indulge in comfort.

Creamy Tomato Soup: The classic companion; its rich creaminess complements the sweet, savory flavors of the grilled cheese perfectly.
Garlic Herb Roasted Vegetables: A vibrant mix adds a delightful crunch and earthy tones that balance the cheese’s richness.
Crispy Kale Chips: These light yet salty bites introduce a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft sandwiches.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crisp-tender sweet potato fries bring a hint of sweetness and a colorful pop to your plate, enhancing the overall meal experience.
Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad offers a bright, cool crunch, making it a perfect way to cut through the richness of the mini grilled cheese.
Sparkling Lemonade: The zesty bubbles provide a refreshing contrast, making each bite of the grilled cheese feel extra special and lively.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, these warm, gooey cookies serve as a sweet finale that echoes the comfort of your main dish.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits brightens the palate, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the savory flavors of the meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Roll Mini Grilled Cheese sandwiches are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the garlic herb butter and assemble the sandwiches up to 24 hours in advance. Simply spread the butter on the sliced rolls, stack the cheese, and place them on a baking sheet, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to enjoy, just pop them in a preheated oven (350°F/175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway to maintain that golden, crispy crust. This method ensures your sandwiches will still be just as delicious and perfectly melty, allowing you to have a comforting meal ready in no time!

Tips for the Best Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese

Butter Generously: Spread the garlic herb butter liberally on each roll slice to ensure maximum flavor and that golden brown finish that everyone loves.
Don’t Overstuff: Keep the cheese layer moderate; overloading can lead to messy spills while baking. Aim for a balanced filling for perfect gooeyness without the chaos.
Use Quality Cheese: Choose a good melting cheese, like cheddar, for that irresistible gooey texture, or mix it up for unique flavors in your Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese.
Watch the Oven: Keep a close eye on the mini grilled cheese while baking to prevent them from getting too dark. Ideal color is golden brown and crispy edges.
Serve Immediately: These mini delights are best enjoyed right out of the oven while they’re warm and gooey. Pair with tomato soup for a classic comfort food experience!

How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese

Fridge: Store leftover mini grilled cheese in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezer: Wrap individual sandwiches in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To maintain crispness, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.

Make-Ahead: Prepare these delightful sandwiches ahead of time and refrigerate before baking. This allows for a quick, hot snack or meal whenever the craving hits!

Hawaiian Roll Mini Grilled Cheese Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to choose ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! Selecting fresh ingredients is key to making delicious Hawaiian Roll Mini Grilled Cheese. To choose ripe rolls, look for King’s Hawaiian rolls that are soft and void of any dark spots or mold. For cheese, aim for blocks or slices that are well within their expiration date and free from any dryness or discoloration.

How should I store leftover Hawaiian Roll Mini Grilled Cheese?
Very simple! Store your leftover mini grilled cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To keep them from sticking together, you can separate the layers with parchment paper. This will help maintain their delightful texture for snacking later!

Can I freeze these mini sandwiches, and if so, how?
Absolutely, you can freeze them! To do this, wrap each assembled sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

What should I do if my cheese isn’t melting well?
If you find that your cheese isn’t melting as nicely as you’d like, it could be due to the type of cheese used. I recommend using a good melting cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for best results. Also, ensure that you’re not overloading the sandwiches, as this can inhibit proper melting. Aim for about a slice or two of cheese per sandwich for gooey perfection!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of for this recipe?
When it comes to dietary restrictions, be mindful that this recipe contains gluten due to the rolls and dairy from the cheese and butter. For those with gluten allergies, you could try using gluten-free sandwich options. Additionally, if there’s a dairy allergy, consider using dairy-free cheese alternatives and a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil for the herb butter.

Can I make Hawaiian Roll Mini Grilled Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, indeed! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Assemble the sandwiches and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap or place them in a covered dish to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to cook, simply pop them in the oven according to the baking instructions. Nothing beats a hassle-free snack ready to go!