There’s something incredibly comforting about the first bite of a grilled cheese sandwich. But when I discovered the delightful combination of gooey cheese and sweet Hawaiian rolls, my taste buds took a joyful leap. Picture this: the warm, fluffy texture of King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls cradling a melty blend of your favorite cheeses, all brought together with a flavorful garlic herb butter.
This Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese isn’t just a meal; it’s a crowd-pleasing snack perfect for game days, family dinner, or satisfying those late-night cravings. It strikes the perfect balance of savory and sweet, making it an instant favorite for both kids and adults. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up that you may find yourself cooking it more often than you thought! So, let’s dive into this delicious recipe and transform ordinary ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why is Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese so delightful?
Comforting and familiar, this recipe brings the beloved grilled cheese concept to a whole new level with the sweetness of Hawaiian rolls. Quick preparation means you can enjoy this tasty treat without spending hours in the kitchen, perfect for busy weeknights! Kid-friendly and appealing to all ages, it makes for a great addition to family meals or gatherings. Versatile enough for endless variations, you can add proteins or spices to suit your taste! Each bite is a heavenly combination of gooey cheese and a light, fluffy roll that leaves you craving more.
Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Ingredients
• Get ready to indulge in this flavorful delight!
For the Sandwich
- King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls – These rolls are the star of the show, providing a sweet and soft base for your grilled cheese. Substitution: Any soft dinner roll, but flavor will differ.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds a rich flavor and helps achieve a beautifully golden exterior. Substitution: Margarine for a non-dairy alternative.
- Oregano – Delivers a warm, herbaceous flavor to elevate your sandwich. Substitution: Dried Italian seasoning.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances the overall flavor with its savory notes. Substitution: Fresh minced garlic (1 clove) for a stronger taste.
- Dried Parsley – Provides a pop of color and a mild herbal flavor. Substitution: Fresh parsley (increase quantity as needed).
- Cheese (Cheddar, Mozzarella, or a blend) – Melts beautifully, creating that iconic creamy interior. Substitution: Any cheese that melts well like Gruyere or Monterey Jack.
For Serving
- Tomato Soup – A classic pairing that brings comfort to every bite. Optional but highly recommended for dipping!
- Fresh Garden Salad – A refreshing side that balances the richness of the grilled cheese. Great for a wholesome meal addition!
Embrace the magic of this Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese and enjoy the delightful flavors that come with every bite!
How to Make Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
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Prepare Garlic Herb Butter: In a bowl, mix softened butter with oregano, garlic powder, and parsley until well combined. This flavorful spread will enhance your sandwiches with a delicious aroma and taste.
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Cut Rolls: Individually cut each roll into thirds, transforming them into perfect little sandwich sizes. The sweetness of King’s Hawaiian rolls will elevate your grilled cheese experience.
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Spread Butter: Generously spread the garlic herb butter on each roll slice. Make sure to coat them well to infuse every bite with rich, buttery goodness.
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Assemble Sandwiches: Place cheese between roll slices and arrange them neatly on a baking sheet. Use your favorite cheese blend to enjoy that creamy texture we all love!
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Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. You want them golden brown and the cheese melted perfectly, so keep an eye on them!
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Serve: Enjoy warm, optionally alongside tomato soup for dipping. These bites of deliciousness are sure to bring smiles all around.
Optional: Serve with a touch of fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
- Spread Evenly: Ensure the garlic herb butter is spread evenly to avoid dry spots. This helps in delivering consistent flavor throughout the Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese.
- Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on your sandwiches while baking. Remove them when golden brown; over-baking can lead to a dry texture.
- Cheese Matters: Use a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor—combining cheddar and mozzarella gives you a creamy and savory bite that complements the sweetness of the Hawaiian rolls.
- Prepping Ahead: Prepare your sandwiches in advance and refrigerate for up to an hour before baking. This helps the flavors meld beautifully; just remember to bake them warm for the best results!
- Dipping Options: Try pairing with unique dips like spicy marinara or creamy ranch to enhance the delightful taste of your Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese!
Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Variations
Feel free to play around with this recipe and create your own exciting twist on this classic comfort food!
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Add Protein: Include thin slices of ham or turkey for a heartier sandwich. It adds savory depth and keeps everyone satisfied.
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Vegetarian Option: Swap the cheese for a plant-based variety to make this delicious meal vegetarian-friendly. Just be sure to choose one that melts well!
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce between the layers for an extra zing. This fiery twist elevates your grilled cheese to exhilarating heights!
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Sweet & Savory: Add a layer of sliced apples or pears for a delightful contrast of flavors. The sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory cheese.
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Cheesy Bliss: Experiment with different cheese blends like Gouda or a sprinkle of feta on top. Each cheese brings unique flavors and textures that enrich every mouthful.
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Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs, like basil or thyme, into the garlic butter for an aromatic upgrade. This adds a garden-fresh note that will delight your senses!
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Loaded Veggies: Sneak in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or caramelized onions. Packed with nutrients, they enhance both flavor and texture.
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Breakfast Style: Include a fried egg in the middle for a luxurious brunch twist. The runny yolk oozes deliciousness into every cheesy bite!
How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
- Fridge: Store any leftover Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This helps retain their delicious flavor and prevents them from drying out.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. This method works best to retain the sandwich’s delightful texture!
- Make-Ahead Tips: Assemble the Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese, wrap them tightly, and refrigerate for up to an hour before baking. Just ensure they’re baked warm for the ultimate flavor!
Make Ahead Options
These Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese sandwiches are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the garlic herb butter and spread it on the rolls up to 24 hours in advance. Simply keep the buttered rolls covered in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. You can also assemble the sandwiches entirely ahead of time, then cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake them for about 20-25 minutes until golden and melted. This makes for an effortless, crowd-pleasing snack ready in no time, ensuring you enjoy that rich, cheesy goodness without any last-minute fuss!
What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese?
Pairing your Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese with delightful side dishes amplifies the comfort and satisfaction of this dish.
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Tomato Soup: Perfectly complements the grilled cheese, creating a classic combination that warms the soul. Dip those cheesy bites for a nostalgic experience!
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Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens with a light vinaigrette add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the grilled cheese. It balances flavors while keeping the meal wholesome.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, they offer a fun texture that pairs beautifully with the soft, gooey sandwich, enhancing your bite.
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Pickles: Their tangy crunch provides a refreshing and zesty contrast, cutting through the richness of the cheese for a well-rounded taste.
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Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing sweetness that brightens your meal, offering a delightful contrast to the savory sandwich.
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Sparkling Lemonade: This zesty drink is light and thirst-quenching, making it an excellent companion for your grilled cheese, bringing a burst of joy to your meal.
Elevate your dining experience by enjoying these delightful accompaniments alongside your Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese.
Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe FAQs
What type of rolls should I use for the Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese?
Absolutely, King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls are the perfect choice because they provide a delightful sweetness and soft texture. However, you can substitute them with any other soft dinner rolls, but keep in mind that the flavor will differ—so aim for something fluffy!
How should I store leftover Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese?
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just remember, a gentle reheating in the oven is best to keep them crispy.
Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese?
Yes, you can! Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until they’re heated through and deliciously crispy.
What if my grilled cheese isn’t golden brown after baking?
If your Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese isn’t achieving that lovely golden color, check your oven temperature. It might need a slight adjustment. Make sure to flip the sandwiches halfway through baking—this helps ensure even browning. They should be checked at around 20 minutes, and if undercooked, bake a bit longer until they reach that perfect crispy finish.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
If you’re hosting guests with dietary restrictions, kindly note that this recipe contains dairy and gluten due to the cheese and rolls. You can make it vegetarian-friendly by opting for plant-based cheese. For a nut-free option, double-check that your garlic powder and any additional seasonings are free from cross-contamination. Always ask guests about allergies to ensure a safe and enjoyable meal!
Can I prepare the Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese in advance?
Most certainly! You can assemble the sandwiches and refrigerate them for up to an hour before baking. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember that they bake best when cooked straight from the fridge—just be sure to take them out a few minutes before placing them in the oven to help with even cooking.
Irresistible Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese You'll Crave
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Garlic Herb Butter: In a bowl, mix softened butter with oregano, garlic powder, and parsley until well combined.
- Cut Rolls: Individually cut each roll into thirds, transforming them into perfect little sandwich sizes.
- Spread Butter: Generously spread the garlic herb butter on each roll slice.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Place cheese between roll slices and arrange them neatly on a baking sheet.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve: Enjoy warm, optionally alongside tomato soup for dipping.