If you are on the hunt for a delightful twist on a classic comfort food, this Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining the soft, sweet fluffiness of Hawaiian rolls with the melty, savory goodness of Monterey Jack cheese, this sandwich offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that feels both nostalgic and exciting. Whether it’s a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this grilled cheese is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make yet irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to capturing that perfect harmony of sweet and savory in this sandwich. Each component plays its role in elevating the final taste and texture, making the process simple but purposeful.
- Hawaiian rolls: Their sweetness and softness provide a delightful contrast to the melted cheese, creating the signature taste.
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: This cheese melts wonderfully, giving you that gooey, creamy center you crave in grilled cheese.
- Unsalted butter: Perfect for browning the rolls without overpowering their natural sweetness or the cheese’s flavor.
- Optional sliced tomatoes: For a fresh and juicy pop that brightens up the sandwich.
- Optional crispy bacon: Adds a smoky crunch, enhancing the overall savoriness for those who want a heartier bite.
How to Make Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Rolls
Start by slicing the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, but don’t slice all the way through—keeping them hinged makes assembly easier and helps hold everything together while cooking.
Step 2: Butter the Rolls
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and spread unsalted butter generously on the insides of each roll. This will help achieve a golden, crispy crust while adding a rich buttery flavor that complements both the rolls and cheese.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches
Place the bottom halves of the buttered Hawaiian rolls on the skillet. Pile on a generous amount of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, then press the top halves over the cheese slightly to create a compact sandwich ready for grilling.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Cook the sandwiches for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until the rolls turn beautifully golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and gooey. Be gentle when flipping to keep everything intact and avoid spilling the delicious cheese filling.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Once both sides are perfectly crisp and the cheese has melted, remove from heat. Slice each sandwich if desired and serve immediately while still warm and melty.
How to Serve Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
To complement this sandwich, fresh garnishes such as a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs—think basil or chives—can bring a subtle brightness. A few slices of ripe tomato or a dash of cracked black pepper on top also add an appealing touch, enhancing each bite without overpowering the flavors.
Side Dishes
Pairing this grilled cheese with classic sides like crispy sweet potato fries or a simple green salad creates a balanced meal. For something heartier, a bowl of tomato soup or a light coleslaw can be excellent companions, rounding out the sweet and savory experience beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving your Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe as mini sliders for a fun party appetizer, or slice them into wedges for easy sharing. Adding layers of avocado or swapping cheese varieties can also customize the flavor profile, making your presentation as creative as your taste buds desire.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in foil or place in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’re best eaten within 1 to 2 days to maintain optimal flavor and texture.
Freezing
This sandwich freezes well when wrapped securely in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze individual sandwiches for up to a month, making it convenient to have a quick and tasty meal on hand whenever you want.
Reheating
To reheat, bake the sandwich in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through, keeping the bread crisp and melting the cheese just right. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the roll soggy and the cheese rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use other types of rolls instead of Hawaiian rolls?
Absolutely! While Hawaiian rolls add a unique sweetness, you can substitute with brioche or potato rolls for a similar soft texture. Just keep in mind the flavor profile will differ slightly.
What cheeses can I use besides Monterey Jack?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses work wonderfully as alternatives. Choose cheeses that melt well to preserve that gooey interior.
Is it necessary to butter the rolls before grilling?
Buttering is essential for achieving a golden, crispy crust and enhancing the flavor. Without butter, the rolls may dry out or not brown properly.
Can I add extras like ham or turkey to the sandwich?
Yes! Adding thin slices of ham, turkey, or even pineapple will complement the sandwich and amplify its tropical vibe. Just be sure not to overstuff to maintain even cooking.
How do I make sure the cheese melts evenly?
Cooking over medium heat allows the cheese to melt fully without burning the bread. Covering the pan briefly can also help trap heat and ensure the cheese melts evenly.
Final Thoughts
I hope you feel as excited about this Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe as I do because it truly brings a fantastic new take on an old favorite. Its sweet and savory balance, combined with that melty cheese goodness, makes it an instant classic in any kitchen. Go on, give it a try and treat yourself to a little slice of grilled cheese heaven that’s quick, simple, and unforgettable.
Print
Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese is a quick and delicious twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, using sweet and soft Hawaiian rolls filled with melted Monterey Jack cheese. Perfectly buttery and golden, it’s an easy comfort food snack or light meal with an optional touch of fresh tomatoes or crispy bacon for added flavor.
Ingredients
Sandwich
- 4 Hawaiian rolls
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Optional: sliced tomatoes or crispy bacon
Instructions
- Slice the rolls: Carefully slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, making sure not to cut all the way through so they stay hinged.
- Prepare the skillet and butter the rolls: Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Butter the inside surfaces of each roll for a rich, golden crust once grilled.
- Assemble and start grilling: Place the bottom halves of the rolls, buttered side down, on the skillet. Generously fill with shredded Monterey Jack cheese, then press the top halves down lightly.
- Grill until golden and melty: Grill the sandwiches for about 3-4 minutes per side, flipping carefully to cook evenly. Grill until both sides are golden brown and the cheese has melted thoroughly.
- Serve: Remove the sandwiches from heat, slice as desired, and serve hot. Add optional sliced tomatoes or crispy bacon for extra flavor.
Notes
- For a crispier sandwich, make sure the skillet is well preheated before grilling.
- Use medium-low to medium heat to allow the cheese to melt without burning the bread.
- Adding sliced tomatoes or crispy bacon inside adds a tasty variation to the classic grilled cheese.
- Hawaiian rolls can be substituted with other soft sweet rolls if unavailable.
