Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls Recipe
Introduction
These Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls are a delightful twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. Soft, slightly sweet rolls loaded with gooey cheddar and mozzarella create the perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion.

Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian rolls
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup butter (softened)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (oregano or basil, optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: Without separating them, slice the entire pack of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally.
- Step 3: Spread softened butter on the cut sides of both top and bottom halves of the rolls.
- Step 4: If you’re using garlic powder, sprinkle it over the buttered rolls for an extra flavor boost.
- Step 5: Evenly distribute the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the bottom half of the rolls. Ensure it’s well-covered.
- Step 6: Carefully place the top half of the rolls back onto the cheesy bottom half.
- Step 7: Tightly wrap the entire sandwich in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out while baking.
- Step 8: Place the wrapped rolls in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted.
- Step 9: For a golden crust, unwrap the foil and return the rolls to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
- Step 10: Once they are golden and cheesy, remove the rolls from the oven, let them cool for a minute, then slice into smaller portions and serve.
Tips & Variations
- Try adding thin slices of ham or cooked bacon between the cheese layers for extra flavor.
- Swap the cheeses for pepper jack or Swiss to customize the taste.
- Use fresh herbs instead of dried for a more vibrant herbal note.
- For a spicier kick, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the cheese before baking.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them wrapped in foil in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to retain softness and melty cheese. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular sandwich rolls instead of Hawaiian rolls?
Yes, regular dinner rolls or slider buns can be used, but Hawaiian rolls add a unique sweetness that complements the cheese nicely.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the sandwich, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a couple extra minutes to the baking time if starting straight from the fridge.
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Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 mini sandwiches 1x
Description
Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls are a delightful twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, using soft and sweet Hawaiian rolls filled with a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Baked to perfection with a buttery garlic herb spread, these bite-sized sandwiches make a perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian rolls
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup butter (softened)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (oregano or basil, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking the rolls.
- Slice the rolls: Keep the 12 Hawaiian rolls together and slice them horizontally through the middle, separating the top and bottom halves but leaving the rolls connected as a whole.
- Butter the rolls: Spread the softened butter evenly on the cut sides of both the top and bottom halves of the rolls to add richness and help the rolls get a nice golden texture.
- Add garlic powder: Sprinkle garlic powder over the buttered surfaces if using, for an additional savory flavor enhancement.
- Layer the cheese: Evenly spread the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses onto the bottom half of the rolls, making sure the cheese covers the surface well for a gooey filling.
- Reassemble the sandwich: Carefully place the top half of the rolls back onto the cheesy bottom half to form sandwiches.
- Wrap in foil: Tightly wrap the entire sandwich in aluminum foil, which will keep moisture in during baking and prevent the rolls from drying out.
- Bake the rolls: Place the foil-wrapped rolls into the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted through.
- Brown the crust: For a golden crust, unwrap the foil and return the rolls to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to allow the tops to brown slightly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, let cool for a minute, then slice into smaller portions and serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute cheddar and mozzarella with other cheeses like pepper jack or provolone for different flavor profiles.
- Adding fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives after baking makes for a fresh garnish.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter or cheese.
- These sandwiches can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving.
- Make sure to tightly wrap in foil to retain moisture and help melt the cheese thoroughly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: mini grilled cheese, Hawaiian rolls, baked sandwiches, appetizer, snack, cheesy rolls, party food

