My mom always had a trick up her sleeve for making the simplest things feel special. One of those was turning ordinary sandwiches into something fun. I remember coming home from school to the smell of butter sizzling in the pan, knowing that meant she was making her version of a quick after-school snack.
It wasn’t just any sandwich; it was her secret weapon: mini grilled cheese made with sweet Hawaiian rolls. The sweetness of the bread combined with the savory cheese was a perfect balance that even my picky younger brother couldn’t resist. These mini grilled cheese bites are more than just a snack; they are a warm hug on a plate, a memory I cherish and love to recreate.
Now, as a mom myself, I love carrying on this tradition and putting my own spin on it. I recently discovered this recipe for mini grilled cheese Hawaiian rolls, and it’s the perfect way to share a bit of my childhood magic with my own kids. Just like my mom, I can whip up a batch in minutes and watch their faces light up as they devour these little cheesy delights. Before we get to the recipe, you have to check out these easy mini apple pies that will have your family begging for more!
Why you’ll love this Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls
- They are incredibly quick and easy to make, perfect for a busy weeknight snack or a last-minute appetizer.
- The combination of sweet Hawaiian rolls and savory cheddar cheese creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
- These mini grilled cheese are irresistibly cute and perfect for serving at parties or gatherings.
- They are a kid-friendly favorite that even the pickiest eaters will love.
- The recipe is easily customizable – you can add different cheeses or even a slice of turkey for extra flavor.
- These are the perfect mini grilled cheese to satisfy your cheesy comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls
- 6 slices cheddar cheese, halved
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Directions
Step 1
Mini grilled cheese makes every moment feel indulgent. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
Step 2
Slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally, keeping the top and bottom halves connected.
Step 3
Place 1/2 slice of cheddar cheese on the bottom half of each roll.
Step 4
Close the rolls with the top half.
Step 5
Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter.
Step 6
Place the rolls butter-side down on the preheated skillet or griddle.
Step 7
Brush the tops of the rolls with the remaining melted butter.
Step 8
Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey.
Step 9
Serve immediately and enjoy these mini grilled cheese Hawaiian rolls!
Variations, pairings, and serving ideas
Variations
Get creative with your cheese! Try using different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, provolone, or even a little bit of pepper jack for a spicy kick. You could also add a sprinkle of garlic powder or onion powder to the melted butter for extra flavor.
For a heartier snack, add a thin slice of turkey or chicken turkey turkey ham to the rolls before grilling. This adds a bit of protein and makes them even more satisfying. Another fun idea is to spread a thin layer of cream cheese on the rolls before adding the cheddar for a tangy twist.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a touch of sweetness to the inside of the rolls. A small smear of apple butter or fig jam can elevate the flavor profile and complement the savory cheese beautifully. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your favorite combination!
Pairings
These mini grilled cheese Hawaiian rolls are delicious on their own, but they also pair perfectly with a variety of sides. A simple tomato soup is a classic pairing that complements the cheesy goodness of the rolls.
For a lighter option, serve them with a crisp green salad or a side of fresh fruit. The sweetness of the fruit balances the richness of the cheese and adds a refreshing element to the meal. A small bowl of cheesy mashed potato puffs would also be a welcome addition to the party!
If you’re serving these as an appetizer, consider offering a selection of dipping sauces. Ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or even a honey mustard sauce can add an extra layer of flavor and make them even more irresistible.
Serving ideas
Presentation is key! Arrange the mini grilled cheese Hawaiian rolls on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. A sprinkle of paprika can also add a pop of color.
Serve them warm and gooey for the best flavor and texture. You can even cut them in half to make them easier to eat as a finger food. For a fun and festive touch, use cookie cutters to shape the rolls before grilling.
These are great as a snack or appetizer, or even as part of a light lunch or brunch. Arrange them nicely on a serving platter and offer a variety of accompaniments, such as fresh fruit, vegetables, and dipping sauces. They will surely be a hit with everyone!
Storage and make-ahead tips
Storage
Leftover mini grilled cheese Hawaiian rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. While they’re best enjoyed fresh, they can be reheated if necessary.
To reheat, you can use a skillet or microwave. For the skillet, simply heat over medium-low heat and cook for a few minutes per side until warmed through and the cheese is melted again. Microwaving is faster, but the rolls may become a bit softer.
I do not recommend freezing these, as the texture of the bread can change and become soggy when thawed. It’s always best to make them fresh for the best quality and flavor.
Make-ahead
While it’s best to grill these fresh, you can prep some of the ingredients ahead of time to save time later. You can slice the Hawaiian rolls and halve the cheddar cheese slices in advance and store them in separate containers in the refrigerator.
You can also melt the butter ahead of time and store it in a small container. When you’re ready to assemble the mini grilled cheese, simply grab the prepped ingredients and follow the instructions.
Assembling the rolls with cheese ahead of time is not recommended, as the bread may become soggy from the moisture in the cheese. It’s best to assemble them right before grilling for the best results.
Common mistakes when making Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls
- Using too much butter: Over-buttering the rolls can make them greasy and soggy. Use just enough to lightly coat the tops and bottoms.
- Grilling at too high of a heat: Grilling at too high of a heat can cause the rolls to burn before the cheese has a chance to melt. Use medium heat for even cooking.
- Not preheating the skillet or griddle: Starting with a cold skillet or griddle can result in uneven cooking and a less crispy exterior. Make sure the skillet is properly preheated before adding the rolls.
- Overcrowding the skillet: Overcrowding the skillet can lower the temperature and prevent the rolls from browning properly. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Not serving immediately: These mini grilled cheese are best enjoyed warm and gooey right off the skillet. Waiting too long can cause them to become cold and less appealing.
Final notes
These mini grilled cheese Hawaiian rolls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! They’re simple enough for a quick weeknight snack, yet special enough for a party appetizer. Don’t be surprised if they disappear in minutes!
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, spreads, and toppings to create your own unique version. The possibilities are endless! Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the process of creating something delicious.
I hope you love these mini grilled cheese as much as we do! Happy grilling, and remember, the best meals are often the simplest ones made with love.
Loved this Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls? Try these next
- Easy Mini Apple Pies Recipe
- Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe
- Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake
- Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
- Creamed Spinach Recipe
Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls
These mini grilled cheese Hawaiian rolls are the perfect bite-sized snack or appetizer! Soft, sweet rolls are filled with melty cheese and grilled to golden perfection. Quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious!
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls
- 6 slices cheddar cheese, halved
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally, keeping the top and bottom halves connected.
- Place 1/2 slice of cheddar cheese on the bottom half of each roll.
- Close the rolls with the top half.
- Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter.
- Place the rolls butter-side down on the preheated skillet or griddle.
- Brush the tops of the rolls with the remaining melted butter.
- Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey.
- Serve immediately and enjoy these mini grilled cheese Hawaiian rolls!
Notes
For extra flavor, try adding a thin slice of turkey or turkey turkey ham to the rolls before grilling. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg