Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls – Cheesy, Sweet & Irresistible!

If you’re a cheese lover, few things are as comforting as a perfectly melty grilled cheese sandwich. But what if you could elevate this classic snack into a fun, shareable, and slightly sweet treat? Enter Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls—soft, fluffy rolls filled with gooey cheddar and mozzarella, baked to golden perfection. These rolls are not only visually appealing, but they also bring together the perfect combination of sweet and savory, making them ideal for parties, game nights, or simply a delicious comfort snack.

What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and crowd-pleasing nature. Using Hawaiian rolls saves prep time and adds a touch of sweetness that complements the richness of the cheese. With minimal ingredients and steps, anyone can achieve bakery-quality results in their own kitchen.

In this guide, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips for perfect cheese melts, serving suggestions, flavor variations, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 12 rolls
• Calories: 200 kcal per roll
• Difficulty: Easy
• Course: Snack / Appetizer / Side Dish
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

• 12 Hawaiian rolls
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup butter, softened

Optional Enhancements

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried herbs (oregano or basil)

Ingredient Insights

Hawaiian Rolls:
Sweet and fluffy, these rolls provide the perfect base for melting cheese without falling apart. You can use mini or regular-sized rolls depending on your preference.

Cheeses:
Cheddar offers sharp flavor, while mozzarella provides a gooey, melty texture. Using both creates a balance of taste and stretchiness that makes each bite satisfying.

Butter and Flavorings:
Butter ensures golden, crisp edges, while garlic powder or dried herbs elevate the flavor without overpowering the cheese.

Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Aluminum foil
• Knife for slicing
• Spoon or spatula for spreading butter
• Measuring cups

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Rolls

Without separating them individually, slice the entire pack of Hawaiian rolls horizontally. This creates a top and bottom half while keeping all rolls aligned for easier assembly.

Step 3: Butter the Rolls

Spread softened butter evenly on the cut sides of both the top and bottom halves. Butter adds richness and helps the rolls develop a golden crust.

Optional: Sprinkle garlic powder or dried herbs on the buttered sides for additional flavor.

Step 4: Layer the Cheese

Evenly distribute cheddar and mozzarella across the bottom half of the rolls. Ensure every roll has a good amount of cheese to melt into gooey perfection.

Step 5: Assemble and Wrap

Carefully place the top half of the rolls back onto the cheesy bottom half. Wrap the entire sandwich tightly in aluminum foil to prevent the rolls from drying out while baking.

Step 6: Bake

Place the wrapped rolls in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted.

Step 7: Optional Toast

For a golden crust, unwrap the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes. This step gives the top a lightly crisped texture while keeping the inside soft and cheesy.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Slice into individual portions and serve warm.

Tip: Serve with ketchup, marinara, or a spicy mustard dip for an extra flavor kick.

Serving Suggestions

• Party Appetizer: Serve a platter of mini rolls alongside a variety of dipping sauces.
• Snack Time: Pair with fresh veggies or a side salad for a balanced snack.
• Lunchbox Favorite: Wrap individually for a cheesy treat on the go.

Flavor Variations

• Herb-Infused: Sprinkle fresh rosemary or thyme on top before baking.
• Spicy Kick: Add a thin layer of sriracha or jalapeño slices under the cheese.
• Bacon Lovers: Add cooked, crumbled bacon for extra savoriness.
• Sweet & Savory: Drizzle lightly with honey for a gourmet twist.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Bake at 350°F for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds until warm.

Tip: Reheat in foil to prevent the rolls from drying out.

Tips for Perfect Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls

1. Even Slicing: Use a serrated knife for clean cuts without squishing the rolls.
2. Soft Butter: Spread softened butter for smooth, even coverage.
3. Don’t Overfill: Too much cheese can overflow and create a mess while baking.
4. Foil Wrapping: Keeps rolls soft and melty during initial baking.
5. Optional Toast Step: Unwrap for a golden crust if desired.

Print

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use other types of rolls?
Yes. Dinner rolls or brioche buns work well, though the flavor will be slightly different.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Assemble the rolls, wrap in foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes if chilled.

3. Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely. Try a combination of provolone, gouda, or pepper jack for unique flavors.

4. Can I freeze them?
Yes. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze before baking. Bake from frozen, adding 5–10 extra minutes.

5. Are these suitable for kids?
Definitely! Sweet Hawaiian rolls and melty cheese make them a kid-friendly favorite.

Why This Recipe Works

• Simple Ingredients: Minimal pantry staples needed.
• Quick Prep: Ready in just 35 minutes.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Sweet rolls and gooey cheese appeal to all ages.
• Customizable: Add spices, herbs, or fillings to suit your taste.

Conclusion

Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls are an easy, delicious, and visually appealing way to elevate the classic grilled cheese sandwich. Soft, sweet rolls combined with melty cheddar and mozzarella create the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal, these rolls are sure to impress family and friends.

With simple steps, minimal ingredients, and countless customization options, this recipe proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. Crispy on the edges, cheesy in the middle, and just the right touch of sweetness, these Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls are perfect for satisfying any cheese lover’s craving!