Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Hawaiian Roll Mini Grilled Cheese recipe is the perfect way to turn a classic comfort food into a fun, shareable dish. Sweet, fluffy Hawaiian rolls serve as the base for gooey, melted cheese that’s baked until golden and crispy on the outside. These mini sandwiches are perfect for parties, game-day spreads, or quick family snacks because they’re simple to prepare yet packed with flavor. The natural sweetness of the rolls pairs beautifully with the savory richness of melted cheese, creating a satisfying balance in every bite. Best of all, this recipe can be customized with different cheeses, seasonings, or even add-ins like ham, bacon, or tomatoes. Whether you’re looking for an appetizer, an after-school snack, or a crowd-pleasing party platter, Hawaiian Roll Mini Grilled Cheese is guaranteed to deliver comfort and flavor in miniature form.
Print
Hawaiian Roll Mini Grilled Cheese – A Sweet and Savory Bite-Sized Treat
- Total Time: 22 mins
- Yield: 12 mini sandwiches
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fun twist on the classic grilled cheese, these mini sandwiches use sweet Hawaiian rolls, gooey melted cheese, and a buttery golden crust – perfect for snacks, parties, or quick meals.
Ingredients
- 1 package (12-count) Hawaiian rolls
- 8 slices American, cheddar, or mozzarella cheese
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- Without separating the rolls, slice the entire sheet of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally.
- Place the bottom half in the baking dish and layer with cheese slices, covering evenly.
- Place the top half of the rolls back on.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter with garlic powder and parsley. Brush over the tops of the rolls.
- Bake uncovered for 10–12 minutes, until cheese is melted and tops are golden brown.
- Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then slice into individual mini grilled cheese sandwiches.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add sliced ham, turkey, or tomato before baking.
- Try different cheeses like pepper jack or provolone for variety.
- Best served warm right out of the oven.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 12 mins
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Hawaiian rolls – Soft, slightly sweet rolls that serve as the perfect base.
Cheddar cheese – A classic choice for grilled cheese with sharp, melty flavor.
Mozzarella cheese – Adds stretchiness and mild creaminess.
Butter – Brushed over the tops to create a golden, crispy finish.
Garlic powder – Enhances the butter topping with savory depth.
Parsley – Fresh or dried, for garnish and a pop of color.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Without separating the rolls, slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally in half to create a top and bottom layer. Place the bottom layer into a greased baking dish.
Layer cheddar and mozzarella evenly over the bottom rolls. Place the top half of the rolls back on. In a small bowl, mix melted butter with garlic powder. Brush generously over the tops of the rolls.
Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the tops are golden brown. Garnish with parsley before slicing into individual mini sandwiches. Serve warm.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 12 mini sandwiches. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and baking requires 20 minutes. In total, you’ll have them ready in 30 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the rolls soggy.
Variations and Customizations
Ham and cheese – Add deli ham slices between the cheese layers for extra protein.
Bacon twist – Layer crispy bacon for smoky flavor.
Pizza style – Add pepperoni and a little marinara sauce for a fun twist.
Spicy kick – Sprinkle in jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese.
Herbed butter – Mix Italian seasoning, rosemary, or thyme into the melted butter topping.
Three-cheese version – Combine cheddar, mozzarella, and provolone for extra richness.
Breakfast sliders – Add scrambled eggs for a morning variation.
Caramelized onions – Add a layer of sweet onions for depth of flavor.
Tomato slices – Tuck in fresh tomato for a lighter, summery version.
Gluten-free option – Use gluten-free dinner rolls instead of Hawaiian rolls.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble them in advance and bake just before serving.
What cheese melts best for this recipe?
Cheddar, mozzarella, provolone, or a blend all work wonderfully.
Do I have to bake them?
Baking ensures the cheese melts evenly and the rolls crisp up nicely.
Can I use individual rolls instead of baking as a sheet?
Yes, but baking them together helps lock in the heat and keep them gooey.
How do I slice them easily?
Use a sharp serrated knife after baking to separate the rolls cleanly.
Can I freeze these mini grilled cheese sandwiches?
Yes, freeze after baking and reheat in the oven for best results.
What can I serve these with?
They pair well with tomato soup, salad, or as part of a snack platter.
Do Hawaiian rolls make it too sweet?
No, the sweetness complements the salty cheese beautifully.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes, simply use two packs of rolls and a larger baking dish.
How do I prevent soggy bottoms?
Bake uncovered for the last few minutes to let moisture escape.
Conclusion
This Hawaiian Roll Mini Grilled Cheese recipe is the ultimate way to enjoy bite-sized comfort food. With sweet rolls, melty cheese, and a buttery garlic topping, it’s a dish that’s both simple and irresistible. Perfect for entertaining, family dinners, or quick snacks, these mini sandwiches are endlessly customizable and guaranteed to please any crowd. Whether you enjoy them plain or loaded with extras like ham or bacon, this recipe is a delicious twist on a beloved classic.
Hungry for more? Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!