Jump to Recipe Print RecipeGrilled cheese sandwiches are a staple in many kitchens, but have you ever thought of elevating this classic comfort food? This Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese is like a mini-vacation for your taste buds, combining soft, sweet rolls with gooey, melted cheese for a truly tropical delight. It’s perfect for those cozy, rainy days or celebratory movie nights when you crave something comforting yet fun. Not only is it quick to whip up, but the customization options are endless—experiment with different cheeses or add crispy bacon and jalapeños for a flavor bomb! So, are you ready to take your grilled cheese game to the next level? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together! Why is Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese a Must-Try? Delicious Twist: This recipe transforms a simple grilled cheese into an exciting tropical experience, thanks to the sweet and fluffy Hawaiian rolls. Endless Customization: Switch up cheeses or toppings—imagine adding crispy bacon or fresh avocado! Each variation allows for a new adventure in flavor. Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this sandwich comes together in just a few minutes, making it an easy choice for dinner. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether serving it at a party or enjoying it at home, everyone loves this cheesy delight. Pair it with a light salad or tomato soup for a complete meal! Comforting Goodness: Ideal for rainy days or cozy nights in, this dish wraps you in warmth and satisfaction with every gooey bite. Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Ingredients • For the Sandwich Hawaiian Rolls – Soft and sweet, ideal for creating a fluffy base; try brioche or sourdough for a different flavor twist. Cheese (e.g., Cheddar or Pepper Jack) – Provides the essential creamy filling; don’t hesitate to mix cheeses for unique flavor profiles. Butter – Vital for grilling, it creates that irresistible golden, crispy crust; don’t skimp on the amount for optimal taste. • Customization Options Toppings (e.g., Crispy Bacon or Avocado) – Elevate flavor and add texture; the Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese shines with spicy jalapeños or caramelized onions. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Step 1: Prepare Ingredients Begin by gathering your ingredients: soft Hawaiian rolls and your choice of cheese, such as Cheddar or Pepper Jack. Slice each roll in half lengthwise, making sure not to cut all the way through. You want the rolls to act as a cozy pocket for the gooey cheese. Set them aside while you prep the next steps. Step 2: Preheat Pan Place a non-stick skillet on the stove and turn the heat to medium. To ensure a perfectly crispy crust on your Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese, generously butter the insides of each roll with softened butter. You’ll want that golden color, so don’t hold back on the butter, as it adds fantastic flavor and texture. Step 3: Assemble Sandwiches Once your skillet is heated, lay the bottom half of each buttered roll onto the skillet. Pile the cheese generously on top until it nearly overflows, then gently press the top half down. This ensures the cheese melts evenly while the rolls grill beautifully. Make sure the skillet is hot enough to start melting the cheese right away! Step 4: Grill Allow the sandwiches to cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until they turn a lovely golden-brown and the butter bubbles. Carefully flip each sandwich using a spatula and reduce the heat to medium-low if necessary. Grill the other side for another 3-4 minutes, covering briefly with a lid to encourage the cheese to melt completely. Step 5: Slice and Serve After cooking, take the Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese out of the skillet and let them rest for a minute. This cooling helps the cheese set slightly. Slice each sandwich in half for easy handling, and serve them hot. Whether enjoyed on their own or with a dipping sauce, you’ll be relishing every gooey, cheesy bite! What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Pairing this dish with the right sides will elevate your meal to new heights of deliciousness. Tomato Soup: A classic pairing that offers a tangy contrast, enhancing the flavors of the rich, cheesy sandwich. The warm soup complements the gooeyness beautifully, creating a comforting experience in each bite. Light Salad: A crisp garden or spinach salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds freshness to the meal, balancing the richness of the grilled cheese. Think arugula with cherry tomatoes for a vibrant twist! Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These offer a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness that mirrors the Hawaiian rolls. The contrast in textures makes for an exciting bite! Pickles or Jalapeños: Add a tangy, spicy kick that cuts through the richness of the cheese. Both options bring brightness and an element of surprise to each mouthful. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of tropical fruits, like pineapple or mango, complements the Hawaiian theme, bringing a sweet and juicy counterpoint to the savory sandwich. Sparkling Lemonade: This refreshing drink balances the creaminess of the cheese, making every bite feel light and vibrant. A perfect thirst-quencher to enjoy alongside your Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese! Make Ahead Options These Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese sandwiches are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the Hawaiian rolls and fill them with cheese up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the sandwiches to chill in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, store ungrilled sandwiches in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply butter the outsides and grill them on medium heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. This way, you’ll have a delightful comfort meal ready to savor, making busy weeknights so much easier while ensuring the same gooey, deliciousness you love! Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Variations Get ready to make this delightful grilled cheese your own with these tasty twists and options! Gluten-Friendly: Use gluten-free Hawaiian rolls to enjoy this comfort food without compromise. The soft texture remains, and the flavors shine through. Cheese Mix: Combine different types of cheese like Gouda or Havarti for a flavor explosion. Mixing cheeses adds depth and keeps things exciting. Avocado Boost: Add slices of creamy avocado for a fresh taste and a boost of healthy fats. Its richness pairs beautifully with gooey cheese and sweet rolls. Spicy Kick: Toss in jalapeños or hot sauce for a welcoming heat that complements the sweetness of the rolls. It’s like a tropical fiesta in your mouth! Bacon Lover’s Delight: Layer crispy bacon inside for a savory crunch that takes your grilled cheese to a new level of indulgence. Pair it with caramelized onions for extra depth. Vegetable Medley: Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a delicious veggie twist. The earthy flavors elevate this classic to gourmet status. Dipping Sauce Upgrade: Serve with a zesty dipping sauce—like a spicy mayo or tangy BBQ—to compliment the rich flavors of your grilled cheese. Pairing Suggestions: For a complete meal, enjoy your Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese with a light salad or a tomato soup for a comforting contrast! How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Fridge: Store leftover Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This will help maintain the softness of the rolls and the creaminess of the cheese. Freezer: If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the sandwiches. Wrap each in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheating: To enjoy again, reheat frozen sandwiches in a skillet over low heat until warmed through and the cheese is melty. Avoid the microwave to keep the crust crispy. Room Temperature: For best taste, do not keep Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese at room temperature for more than 2 hours, especially if the weather is warm. Expert Tips for Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Use Medium-Low Heat: Cooking on medium-low prevents burning while ensuring the cheese melts perfectly. Keep an eye on the crust for that ideal golden-brown color. Butter Generously: Don’t skimp on butter—it’s the secret to a crispy, flavorful crust. A good amount on both sides makes all the difference! Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or Havarti for unique flavors. Mixing cheeses can elevate your Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese to new heights! Add Crunch: Toppings like crispy bacon, caramelized onions, or fresh jalapeños can enhance the flavor and texture of your sandwich; don’t be afraid to get creative! Serving Size: Make smaller sandwiches for a delightful appetizer or snack. A little Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese goes a long way at parties! Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe FAQs What type of Hawaiian rolls should I use for this recipe? Absolutely! Look for soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls that are fresh and fluffy. If you can’t find them, brioche or sourdough also make great alternatives, offering their own delightful textures and flavors. How should I store leftover Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese? To ensure your delicious sandwiches stay fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This method helps maintain the softness of the rolls and prevents the cheese from becoming rubbery. Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese? Yes, you can freeze them! For optimal results, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, remove the wrapping and reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, ensuring the bread stays crispy while the cheese melts perfectly. What should I do if my grilled cheese burns while cooking? Very! If your Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese starts to burn, immediately lower the heat. Cooking on medium-low is key to prevent this. If you notice one side is browning too quickly, flip the sandwich more frequently and keep an eye on it to achieve that perfect golden-brown finish without burning. Is this recipe gluten-friendly? If you opt for gluten-free Hawaiian rolls, your Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese can be gluten-friendly! Always check label ingredients, as not all products are created equal. Customize your toppings to suit dietary preferences while relishing the same tropical deliciousness. Can I add different toppings to my Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. Toppings like crispy bacon, fresh avocado, or even jalapeños can elevate the flavor of your sandwich. Mix and match to discover your favorite combination! Irresistible Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese: Your New Comfort Food This Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese elevates the classic sandwich with sweet rolls and gooey cheese for a delightful experience. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 8 minutes minsTotal Time 18 minutes mins Servings: 2 sandwichesCourse: LunchCuisine: HawaiianCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Sandwich4 Hawaiian Rolls Soft and sweet, ideal for creating a fluffy base4 slices Cheese (e.g., Cheddar or Pepper Jack) Mix cheeses for unique flavors2 tablespoons Butter For grilling, creates a golden crustCustomization Optionsoptional Toppings (e.g., Crispy Bacon or Avocado) Enhance flavor and texture Equipment non-stick skillet Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Hawaiian Roll Grilled CheeseGather your ingredients: soft Hawaiian rolls and your choice of cheese. Slice each roll in half lengthwise.Preheat a non-stick skillet on medium heat. Butter the insides of each roll generously with softened butter.Lay the bottom half of each buttered roll onto the skillet and pile cheese on top. Press the top half down.Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side until golden-brown. Flip and grill the other side covered for another 3-4 minutes.Let cool for a minute, then slice in half and serve hot. Nutrition Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 14gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 8IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 4mg NotesFor best results, use medium-low heat to avoid burning and ensure even melting of cheese. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!