Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls
Golden, buttery Hawaiian rolls stuffed with gooey melted cheese, then toasted until crispy on the outside and irresistibly cheesy on the inside. These mini grilled cheese bites are perfect for appetizers, parties, lunchboxes, or a quick snack.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Servings: 8 mini sandwiches
Ingredients
8 Hawaiian dinner rolls
8 slices mozzarella cheese
4 slices sharp cheddar cheese, halved
3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional, for extra crispy crust)
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried parsley
¼ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Rolls
Slice each Hawaiian roll in half horizontally without separating completely, creating a pocket.
2. Add the Cheese
Place 1 slice of mozzarella inside each roll.
Add half a slice of cheddar on top.
Close the rolls gently.
3. Make the Butter Mixture
In a small bowl combine:
Softened butter
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Parsley
Black pepper
Mayonnaise (if using)
Mix until smooth.
4. Butter the Rolls
Spread the butter mixture over both sides of each sandwich.
Sprinkle lightly with Parmesan if desired.
5. Cook
Skillet Method (Best)
Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat.
Cook sandwiches for 3–4 minutes per side.
Press gently with a spatula.
Flip carefully and cook until both sides are golden brown and the cheese has melted.
Oven Method
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes.
Flip and bake another 2–3 minutes for extra crispiness.
Air Fryer
Air fry at 360°F (182°C) for 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Tips
Cook over medium-low heat so the cheese melts before the bread gets too dark.
Add a slice of American cheese for an extra creamy texture.
Brush with melted garlic butter immediately after cooking for even more flavor.
Serve immediately while hot and melty.
Optional Add-Ins
Crispy bacon
Pepperoni
Thin ham slices
Jalapeños
Caramelized onions
Tomato slices
Spinach
Cooked shredded chicken
Everything bagel seasoning
Serving Suggestions
Tomato soup
Marinara sauce
Ranch dressing
Garlic aioli
Honey mustard
Pickles
Fresh fruit
Potato chips
Green salad
Storage
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Air Fryer: 350°F for 3–4 minutes
Oven: 350°F for 5–7 minutes
Skillet: 2–3 minutes per side
Microwave is not recommended because the bread loses its crispness.
Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)
Calories: 255
Protein: 11g
Carbohydrates: 19g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 430mg
Calcium: 280mg
Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on the brands and ingredients used.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains:
Milk/Dairy: Yes (butter, mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan)
Wheat/Gluten: Yes (Hawaiian rolls)
Eggs: Yes (mayonnaise, if used)
Soy: May be present in cheese or bread, depending on the brand.
Nut Information:
Peanuts: None in the recipe.
Tree Nuts: None in the recipe.
Always check ingredient labels, as commercially produced bread and cheese may be manufactured in facilities that also process tree nuts or peanuts.
Q&A
Q: Can I use another type of bread?
A: Yes. Slider buns, brioche rolls, dinner rolls, or thick sandwich bread all work well.
Q: What’s the best cheese for grilled cheese?
A: A combination of mozzarella and cheddar gives the perfect balance of stretch and flavor. American, provolone, Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Swiss are also excellent choices.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes. Assemble the sandwiches up to 24 hours ahead, refrigerate, and cook just before serving.
Q: Can I freeze them?
A: Yes. Freeze uncooked assembled sandwiches for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
Q: How do I keep them crispy?
A: Cook over medium-low heat, avoid overcrowding the pan, and let them rest for 1 minute before serving.
Q: Can I make them vegetarian?
A: They already are. Simply avoid adding meat-based fillings.
Q: What dipping sauces pair well with these?
A: Tomato soup, marinara, ranch, garlic aioli, spicy mayo, pesto, or honey mustard are all delicious choices.
