If you are craving a nostalgic, melty, and delightfully sweet twist on a classic comfort food, you are going to love this Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe. It takes the ordinary grilled cheese to a whole new level by using soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls to cradle your gooey cheese, creating a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Whether it’s a quick lunch, a casual dinner, or a snack, this sandwich promises to deliver smiles, satisfaction, and a little taste of sunshine in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, few, but essential — each ingredient in this Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe plays a crucial role to elevate the flavor and texture to the next level. The slight sweetness from the Hawaiian rolls balances perfectly with the savory, golden melted cheese, while butter ensures a crispy, golden crust.
- Hawaiian rolls: Their soft, slightly sweet dough adds a unique, tender bite that sets this sandwich apart from the usual grilled cheese.
- Cheese slices (cheddar or your choice): Choose your favorite melty cheese to achieve that irresistible gooey center.
- Butter: Essential for creating a golden brown, crispy exterior that seals in all the deliciousness.
How to Make Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Skillet
Start by warming up your skillet over medium heat. This ensures even cooking for the sandwich and helps achieve that perfect golden crust without burning.
Step 2: Prepare the Rolls
Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Then spread butter generously on the outside of each roll half. This step is key to getting that crispy, flavorful crust that makes this grilled cheese stand out.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Place a slice of your chosen cheese inside the rolls. Using a good melting cheese like cheddar works beautifully, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella or pepper jack for an adventurous bite.
Step 4: Assemble and Cook
Close each sandwich by pressing the two halves together. Carefully place them in the preheated skillet. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, flipping gently to ensure they brown evenly and the cheese melts perfectly without spilling out.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Once golden brown and melty, remove the sandwiches from the skillet, slice if desired, and serve immediately while everything is warm and gooey.
How to Serve Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a fresh garnish can brighten the rich flavors in this sandwich. Try a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or chives to add a pop of color and subtle earthiness that complements the sweetness of the rolls and savoriness of the cheese.
Side Dishes
This sandwich pairs wonderfully with a simple mixed green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, or for something heartier, try tomato soup for a classic combination that never disappoints. Fresh-cut veggies or crispy sweet potato fries also add a nice contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or family dinners, cut the sandwiches into smaller slider-sized bites to create a fun, shareable platter. You can even layer different cheese varieties between the Hawaiian rolls to add color and complexity, turning this easy recipe into a colorful grilled cheese board centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep in mind that the rolls might lose some crispiness but the flavors will remain delicious and comforting.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled sandwiches before cooking by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to a month, then cook them straight from frozen with a slightly longer cooking time, flipping carefully to avoid burning.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe is on a skillet over low to medium heat to restore crispiness on the outside and melt the cheese again evenly. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the bread soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar is classic, this recipe shines with any cheese that melts well. Mozzarella, gouda, Swiss, or pepper jack are fantastic alternatives that add new flavor dimensions.
Do I have to butter the rolls on the outside?
Yes, buttering the outside is essential for that golden, crispy crust. It adds flavor and prevents the bread from drying out while cooking.
Is there a way to make this sandwich vegan?
Definitely! Use vegan cheese slices and a plant-based butter substitute. Hawaiian rolls without dairy ingredients can be found or made at home, ensuring the recipe works entirely plant-based.
How long can I keep leftover sandwiches in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, leftover sandwiches stay tasty for up to two days. Reheat them on a skillet for the best texture.
Can I add extras like ham or tomato?
Yes, layering in extra ingredients like ham, tomato slices, or even pineapple chunks can make this sandwich even more exciting. Just adjust cooking times slightly to ensure everything heats through properly.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe, it’s going to become your go-to comfort food fix. The blend of sweet rolls and melted, savory cheese creates a feel-good flavor combination that tastes like a warm hug. Whether for a busy weekday lunch or a cozy weekend meal, this sandwich is simple to make and endlessly satisfying. Grab your skillet, roll up your sleeves, and give it a try — your taste buds will thank you.
Print
Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This luscious Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese sandwich combines sweet, soft Hawaiian rolls with melty cheddar cheese, creating a perfectly golden, buttery crust in just 20 minutes. Ideal for a quick and comforting lunch, these flavorful grilled cheese sandwiches balance savory and sweet in every bite.
Ingredients
Sandwich Ingredients
- 8 Hawaiian rolls
- 8 slices cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice)
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
Instructions
- Preheat the Skillet: Heat a skillet over medium heat to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature for toasting your sandwiches evenly without burning the buttered rolls.
- Prepare the Rolls: Slice each Hawaiian roll in half horizontally. Spread butter evenly on the outside of each half to achieve a golden, crispy crust when cooked.
- Add the Cheese: Place one slice of cheddar cheese inside the bottom half of each roll, ensuring full coverage for a gooey melt.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Close the rolls by placing the top half over the cheese, buttered sides facing out.
- Cook the Sandwiches: Place the assembled rolls in the preheated skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted, flipping carefully to keep them intact.
- Serve Warm: Remove the grilled cheese sandwiches from the skillet, slice as desired, and serve immediately while warm and melty.
Notes
- For extra gooey cheese, use a combination of cheddar and mozzarella.
- Ensure the butter is spread evenly to avoid burning and to get an even golden crust.
- If preferred, add thin slices of ham or turkey inside for a heartier sandwich.
- Cook on medium heat to give the cheese time to melt without burning the rolls.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and ease flipping.
