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Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese

Hawaiian roll grilled cheese - featured image

This Hawaiian roll grilled cheese recipe transforms sweet, fluffy rolls into gooey, golden mini sandwiches with a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and American cheese. Perfect for a quick lunch, snack, or party appetizer, it’s easy, crowd-pleasing, and irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (12-count) package Hawaiian rolls (original, such as King’s Hawaiian)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 4 slices American cheese (white or yellow)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • Parsley, dried or fresh, for garnish (optional)
  • Salt, a pinch (only if using unsalted butter)
  • Optional add-ins: cooked bacon bits, sliced ham or turkey, thinly sliced tomatoes (patted dry), jalapeños or sliced pickles

Instructions

  1. Carefully slice the entire pack of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally with a serrated knife, keeping the rolls attached. Place the bottom half cut-side up on a cutting board.
  2. In a small bowl, mix softened butter, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt (if using unsalted butter). Stir until smooth. Add parsley if desired.
  3. Evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the bottom half of the rolls. Top with shredded mozzarella, then layer the American cheese slices on top.
  4. Place the top half of the rolls back on. Spread half of the garlic butter mixture over the tops, reaching all the way to the edges.
  5. Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low. Transfer the slab of buttered rolls (butter side down) to the pan. Spread the remaining garlic butter on the top side while it cooks.
  6. Cook for 3-4 minutes, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bottom is golden and crisp. Carefully flip the slab (or cut in half for easier flipping) and cook another 3-4 minutes until the second side is golden and the cheese is melted.
  7. Transfer to a cutting board and let sit for 1-2 minutes. Separate into individual rolls. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve hot.

Notes

For best results, grill the rolls as a slab before separating. Use medium-low heat to avoid burning and ensure gooey cheese. For a big batch, bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes. Add-ins like ham, bacon, or veggies can be layered with the cheese. For gluten-free or dairy-free, substitute appropriate rolls and cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: Hawaiian roll grilled cheese, pull-apart grilled cheese, easy lunch, party snack, kid-friendly, skillet, cheese sandwich, comfort food