Jump to Recipe Print RecipeI never expected a simple grilled cheese to transport me to the sunny shores of Hawaii, but then I discovered the magic of the Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese. This recipe combines ooey-gooey cheese with the delightful sweetness of King’s Hawaiian Rolls, creating a comfort food experience that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up these scrumptious mini sandwiches—ideal for those rainy days when you crave something warm and decadent. Plus, they’re a guaranteed hit with kids and grown-ups alike, making them perfect for meal prep or game day snacking. Ready to take your grilled cheese game to tropical heights? Let’s dive into the magic of these mouthwatering sandwiches! Why is this grilled cheese extra special? Irresistible Sweetness: The combination of King’s Hawaiian Rolls adds a delightful sweetness that elevates the classic grilled cheese experience to new heights. Simplicity: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a game day snack, these mini sandwiches are sure to impress everyone at the table, just like our Grilled Cheese Burrito. Versatility: Explore endless variations by adding different cheeses or fillings—think savory ham or zesty pepper jack! Comfort Food: With that ooey-gooey cheese and crispy exterior, they’re reminiscent of childhood favorites, but with a delightful twist perfect for adults too. Get ready to enjoy this warm, comforting dish alongside your favorite tomato soup, just like our delicious Hot Italian Cheese! Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Ingredients For the Sandwiches • King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls – The star of this recipe, offering the perfect balance of sweetness and fluffiness. • Cheese of Choice – Use your favorite melting cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for that perfect gooey texture. For the Garlic Herb Butter • Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; ensure it’s softened for easy spreading. • Oregano – This herb enhances the flavor profile; feel free to swap with Italian seasoning for a twist. • Garlic Powder – Gives an extra layer of flavor; fresh garlic can be used for a bolder taste. • Parsley – Adds a fresh, vibrant touch; dried parsley can work in a pinch. Make sure to grab these delicious ingredients to create your irresistible Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese that everyone will adore! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Step 1: Prep the Butter In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon of oregano, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This flavorful garlic herb butter is key to adding richness to your Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese, so be sure to set it aside once it’s ready. Step 2: Prepare the Rolls Take your King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully slice each roll into thirds, creating delightful mini sandwich components. Arrange the cut rolls on a baking sheet, leaving space between them to ensure even baking. This prep will set the stage for assembling your delicious sandwiches. Step 3: Butter the Rolls Generously spread the prepared garlic herb butter on each cut side of the Hawaiian Roll pieces. Make sure each piece is well-coated for a rich and flavorful grilled cheese experience. The butter will give the sandwiches a crispy, golden exterior during baking. Now that they are buttered, it’s time to layer in the gooey cheese. Step 4: Assemble Sandwiches Begin assembling your Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese by placing your favorite melting cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella between two buttered roll halves. Repeat this process until all rolls are stacked and filled with cheese and set aside the remaining roll tops. This way, you’ll have delicious gooey sandwiches ready for baking. Step 5: Bake Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. After about 10-12 minutes, carefully flip the mini sandwiches to ensure they golden brown evenly on both sides. Keep an eye on them as they bake; the goal is to achieve a beautifully golden exterior with melted cheese peeking through. Step 6: Serve Once the Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese is perfectly baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Cut each sandwich in half for bite-sized pieces, making them perfect for dipping and sharing. Serve warm, ideally alongside a comforting bowl of tomato soup to complement this delightful treat. Tips for the Best Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Softened Butter: Ensure your unsalted butter is adequately softened to make spreading the garlic herb mix effortless, avoiding any tearing of the rolls. Even Baking: Flip your sandwiches halfway through baking for a uniform golden crispness on both sides—no soggy bottoms allowed! Choose the Right Cheese: Use cheeses that melt beautifully, like cheddar or mozzarella, for that ooey-gooey texture that makes your Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese irresistible. Serve Fresh: These sandwiches are best enjoyed immediately after baking, as reheating can affect their crispiness. Serve with warm tomato soup for a comforting touch! Experiment with Varieties: Don’t hesitate to explore other cheeses or add fillings like ham or turkey to make your Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese even more delightful. Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Variations Feel free to tailor this delightful sandwich to suit your family’s tastes and dietary needs! Cheese Swap: Use gouda, pepper jack, or a blend for a unique taste. Each cheese brings a different creaminess that takes the flavor up a notch. Herb Alternatives: Replace oregano with fresh basil or chives for a refreshing twist. The new aromas will make your kitchen smell heavenly! Veggie Boost: Add slices of tomato or roasted bell peppers for an extra pop of color and nutrition. These additions create a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the rolls. Heat it Up: Include spicy jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in between the cheese layers for a kick! The heat pairs beautifully with the sweetness of King’s Hawaiian Rolls. Bread Choices: Experiment with other sweet rolls like brioche or Challah. Each option will lend its own unique sweetness and texture. Dairy-Free Delight: Opt for dairy-free cheese and use vegan butter for a tasty vegan version. You won’t miss the traditional ingredients at all! Meaty Addition: Layer some turkey or ham for a heartier sandwich. The rich flavors add depth and make it even more satisfying, perfect for a family dinner. Gourmet Take: Spread a layer of pesto or fig jam on the inside of the rolls. This unexpected pairing will cool your taste buds while elevating the traditional grilled cheese. Pair your creations with a side of our creamy Chickpea Salad Grilled or a slice of decadent Blackberry Cream Cheese for ultimate enjoyment! Make Ahead Options These Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese sandwiches are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the garlic herb butter and assemble the sandwiches up to 24 hours in advance by buttering the rolls and layering the cheese, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This prep not only saves you valuable time, but it also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake them straight from the fridge, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time to ensure they’re heated through and perfectly golden. You’ll have a delicious, comforting dish ready to serve on busy nights! What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Cozy up to a delightful dining experience that perfectly complements your indulgent sandwiches. Creamy Tomato Soup: The classic pairing creates a comforting blend of flavors, ensuring every bite is a warm delight. Dip those cheesy bites into the rich tomato goodness for a satisfying meal that warms the soul. Crisp Green Salad: A vibrant salad filled with fresh greens adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the grilled cheese. Toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for an added zing. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these fries provide a delightful contrast to the gooey sandwiches. Their natural sweetness will harmonize beautifully with the Hawaiian rolls. Roasted Veggies: Colorful roasted vegetables, like bell peppers and zucchini, add a nutritious touch and a burst of flavor that complements the savory grilled cheese. Their charred edges and tender texture create an ideal sidekick. Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate and enhance the tropical vibes of the Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese. A sprinkle of mint takes it up a notch! Sparkling Lemonade: For a refreshing drink, bubbly lemonade adds a zesty brightness that contrasts perfectly with the rich, cheesy sandwiches. It’s the ultimate thirst-quencher for any gathering. Cheesy Garlic Bread: Why not double the cheesy goodness? Serve cheesy garlic bread for a savory supplement that pairs well with the sweet Hawaiian rolls. This indulgent treat will wow your family and friends. Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note with warm chocolate chip cookies. Their gooey chocolate and soft texture will delight anyone with a sweet tooth after savoring the savory grilled cheese. Herbal Iced Tea: A refreshing herbal iced tea complements the whole meal, providing a fragrant finish to the savory flavors while keeping the palate refreshed. Storage Tips for Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Fridge: Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This will help retain their flavor and prevent them from getting soggy. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheating: To reheat and maintain that crispy texture, pop the sandwiches in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make them chewy instead of crispy. Serving Size: When ready to enjoy again, feel free to cut them into smaller pieces for easy sharing, especially if you’re serving them at gatherings or family functions. Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe FAQs What type of rolls should I use for this recipe? I recommend using King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls, as they provide a delightful sweetness and fluffy texture that pairs perfectly with melted cheese. However, you can substitute them with any sweet dinner rolls if you can’t find King’s Hawaiian. How should I store leftover Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese? Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This will help them maintain their flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispy texture. Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese? Certainly! To freeze, wrap the sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place them in a freezer-proof bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, remove them from the freezer and reheat in the oven at 350°F for a golden, crispy finish. What can I do if the cheese doesn’t melt well? If you find that the cheese isn’t melting as you’d like, consider using cheeses known for their melting qualities, such as cheddar or mozzarella. Also, try flipping the sandwiches halfway through baking—this allows for even heat distribution and helps melt the cheese thoroughly. Is this Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese recipe suitable for kids with dairy allergies? If you’re looking to enjoy these sandwiches in a dairy-free version, I suggest using vegan cheese alternatives. They melt well and can mimic the texture of traditional cheese. Make sure to also substitute the unsalted butter with dairy-free margarine or olive oil for the garlic herb mix. How can I customize my Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese? The more the merrier! Explore variations like adding different cheeses, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick, or incorporating savory ingredients like sliced ham, turkey, or even fresh veggies. You can also mix up the herbs—thyme or rosemary can add a unique twist to the garlic butter spread. Melt-in-Your-Mouth Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Delight Experience the comfort of Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese, combining golden rolls with melting cheese for a delightful treat. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 sandwichesCourse: SnacksCuisine: HawaiianCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Sandwiches12 rolls King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls The star of this recipe1 cup Cheese of Choice Use melting cheese like cheddar or mozzarellaFor the Garlic Herb Butter1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Ensure it’s softened1 teaspoon Oregano Can be swapped for Italian seasoning1 teaspoon Garlic Powder For extra flavor2 tablespoons Parsley Chopped fresh or dried can work Equipment Mixing BowlBaking SheetOven Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Hawaiian Roll Grilled CheeseIn a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, oregano, garlic powder, and parsley. Stir until smooth.Preheat oven to 350°F. Slice rolls into thirds and arrange on a baking sheet.Spread garlic herb butter generously on each cut side of the rolls.Place cheese between two buttered roll halves, stacking until all rolls are filled.Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping sandwiches halfway to ensure even browning.Once baked, let cool slightly, cut in half, and serve warm with tomato soup. Nutrition Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg NotesBest enjoyed fresh; avoid reheating in a microwave to maintain crispiness. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!