If you are searching for an irresistibly delicious, crowd-pleasing snack that combines gooey cheese, savory beef, and a hint of tropical sweetness, look no further than the Ultimate Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls Recipe. These sliders are a perfect marriage of soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls and melty layers of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, accented with tender deli beef and juicy pineapple bits. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a cozy comfort food, this recipe is sure to deliver warm, cheesy satisfaction with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Ultimate Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtful selection of ingredients. Each one plays an essential role—from the soft, buttery Hawaiian rolls that form the perfect base, to the expertly seasoned butter mixture that adds richness and flavor, and of course the blend of cheeses and savory fillings that create layers of indulgence.
- Hawaiian Sweet Rolls (12-count): These soft, sweet rolls provide a perfect contrast to the savory fillings.
- Unsalted butter, softened (1/2 cup): Acts as the base for the flavorful butter-mayo spread, and later for grilling.
- Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): Adds creaminess and helps balance the butter’s richness.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Gives a gentle punch of aromatic flavor to the butter mixture.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the savory notes without overpowering.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds subtle heat and depth to the seasoning.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (8 ounces): Sharp and melty, delivers that classic grilled cheese taste.
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese (4 ounces): Provides a creamy texture and mild flavor that pairs perfectly with cheddar.
- Thinly sliced deli beef (4 ounces): Brings a hearty, savory element to elevate the sliders.
- Finely diced pineapple (1/2 cup): Adds juicy sweetness and a pleasant tropical twist.
- Optional glaze – unsalted butter (2 tablespoons), garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon), fresh parsley (1 tablespoon): A flavorful brush-on finish that gives these sliders a beautiful golden shine and extra flavor.
How to Make Ultimate Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Butter-Mayonnaise Mixture & Slice Rolls
Start by combining the softened butter, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper in a bowl until you get a smooth, spreadable mixture. Next, carefully slice your entire block of Hawaiian rolls horizontally about three-quarters of the way through. This hinge allows you to open the rolls like a book while keeping them attached, making assembly easier and mess-free.
Step 2: Apply Butter Mixture
Open the hinged rolls gently and spread half of your butter-mayo blend evenly across the inside surfaces. Once done, close the rolls and use the remaining mixture to coat every inch of the outside surfaces—the top, bottom, and edges—ensuring delicious buttery crispness when grilled.
Step 3: Layer Fillings
With the rolls opened back up, layer half the shredded cheddar cheese on the bottom half. Next, sprinkle all the Monterey Jack cheese evenly over that, then add the remaining cheddar cheese. Evenly scatter slices of deli beef and then the finely diced pineapple throughout the cheese layers. Once filled, close the rolls and press gently to keep everything snug inside.
Step 4: Stovetop Grilling (Recommended)
Preheat a large non-stick skillet on medium-low heat for about 3 to 5 minutes. Carefully place the entire block of filled rolls into the skillet. Cover with a lid and let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the bottom to turn golden brown and cheese to melt. Flip the block, cover again, and grill the other side for another 5 to 7 minutes until it’s golden and the cheese is tantalizingly gooey. For an extra crispy finish, try standing the block on its edges for 1 to 2 minutes per side. Remove the whole block to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Step 4 Alternative: Oven Grilling (Great for Larger Groups)
If you are making this Ultimate Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls Recipe for a crowd, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the filled rolls on it. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese begins to melt. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 5 to 10 minutes until the tops are beautifully golden and crisp. Like the stovetop method, transfer to a cutting board and allow to rest before slicing.
Step 5: Apply Optional Glaze
While the rolls rest, melt two tablespoons of unsalted butter and stir in garlic powder and freshly chopped parsley. Use a brush to generously coat the tops and sides of your grilled rolls with this flavorful glaze for a shiny, irresistible finish that adds another layer of buttery, herby love.
Step 6: Serve
Finally, cut along the original seams to separate the block into individual mini sandwiches. Serve these warm and gooey beauties immediately for the ultimate cheesy experience that melts in your mouth and lingers on the taste buds.
How to Serve Ultimate Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes elevates the presentation and flavor of this classic yet creative dish. Sprinkle some thinly sliced green onions or fresh parsley over the cut sandwiches for a pop of color. A light dusting of smoked paprika or a few red pepper flakes can also amp up the savory notes without overwhelming the harmony of flavors.
Side Dishes
The rich and hearty nature of these mini grilled cheese sliders pairs wonderfully with fresh, crisp sides. Try serving alongside crunchy dill pickle spears or a simple mixed green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a casual party vibe, classic kettle-cooked potato chips or a tangy coleslaw complement these bites perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress your guests, present the Ultimate Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls Recipe on a beautiful wooden board or a rustic platter lined with parchment paper. Arrange with small bowls of dipping sauces such as chipotle mayo, honey mustard, or a tangy barbecue sauce. Garnish the platter with fresh herbs and pineapple slices for added tropical flair and visual appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (and trust me, these usually don’t last long), wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. Keep them refrigerated and consume within 2 to 3 days for the best flavor and texture. Reheating them carefully will bring back some of the original magic.
Freezing
You can freeze the sandwiches before or after grilling. Wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap and then foil or place in a heavy-duty freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture and taste.
Reheating
To revive that fresh-from-the-pan cheesy goodness, reheat leftover sandwiches in a skillet over medium-low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. Your microwave can work in a pinch but be careful—it may leave the bread soggy or chewy. For crispness, you can also finish reheating in a toaster oven or oven at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes.
FAQs
Can I substitute the deli beef with another protein?
Absolutely! Thinly sliced ham, turkey, or even cooked bacon work beautifully in this recipe. You can also try a vegetarian version by adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a delicious twist on the Ultimate Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls Recipe.
Is there a way to make these sliders spicier?
Yes! Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the butter mixture or using pepper jack cheese in place of Monterey Jack will give your sliders a nice kick. You can also serve with spicy mustard or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra zing.
Can I prepare this recipe without mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayo, you can substitute it with an equal amount of sour cream or Greek yogurt to maintain a creamy texture in the butter spread. However, mayonnaise helps with moisture and flavor so it’s worth trying at least once as instructed.
How do I prevent the rolls from getting soggy?
Make sure to press the rolls gently after layering the fillings to compact them slightly, and grill them properly until the exterior is nicely crisp and golden. Also, drain canned pineapple well before adding to avoid excess moisture.
Can I make smaller or larger sandwiches with this recipe?
Definitely! The beauty of the Ultimate Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls Recipe is its flexibility. You can use slider-size rolls for small bites or an extra-large loaf cut horizontally and filled the same way for bigger sandwiches. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure even melting and toasting.
Final Thoughts
Making the Ultimate Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls Recipe is like gifting yourself a warm embrace loaded with cheesy, savory, and subtly sweet flavors. It’s a perfect treat to elevate any occasion—whether a casual family dinner or a lively gathering with friends. I truly encourage you to give this recipe a try; once you taste that perfect combination of tender rolls and molten cheese with hints of pineapple and beef, you’ll find yourself coming back for more every time.
Print
Ultimate Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 mini sandwiches
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Ultimate Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls are a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and melty goodness perfect for parties or a fun snack. Featuring layers of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, savory deli beef, and sweet pineapple nestled inside soft Hawaiian rolls, then grilled to golden perfection. An optional garlic butter glaze adds a flavorful finishing touch that makes these sandwiches irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
Rolls and Butter Mixture
- One (1) 12-count package Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup (60g) mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese and Fillings
- 8 ounces (approx. 2 cups) shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 ounces (approx. 1 cup) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 4 ounces (approx. 1 cup) thinly sliced deli beef, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup finely diced pineapple (fresh or well-drained canned)
Optional Glaze
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare Butter-Mayonnaise Mixture & Slice Rolls: In a bowl, combine softened butter, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth. Using a serrated knife, slice the entire block of Hawaiian rolls horizontally about three-quarters of the way through, keeping them connected at the back (hinged).
- Apply Butter Mixture: Open the hinged rolls and generously spread half of the butter-mayonnaise mixture onto the inside surfaces. Close the rolls, then generously coat all outside surfaces (top, bottom, edges) with the remaining butter-mayonnaise mixture.
- Layer Fillings: Gently open the rolls. Layer half of the cheddar cheese on the bottom half, then all the Monterey Jack cheese, then the remaining cheddar. Evenly scatter the thinly sliced deli beef and finely diced pineapple over the cheese layers. Close the rolls and press gently to secure fillings.
- Stovetop Grilling (Recommended): Preheat a large non-stick skillet over medium-low heat for 3-5 minutes. Carefully place the entire block of rolls in the skillet. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and cheese melts. Flip the block, cover again, and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the second side is golden and cheese is fully melted. For extra crispiness, briefly stand on edges for 1-2 minutes per side. Remove to a cutting board and rest for 2-3 minutes.
- Apply Optional Glaze: While rolls rest, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Stir in garlic powder and fresh parsley. Brush this glaze generously over the top and sides of the grilled rolls.
- Serve: Using a serrated knife, cut along the original seams to separate into individual mini grilled cheese sandwiches. Serve immediately while warm and gooey.
Notes
- For a larger crowd, you can bake the rolls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for 15-20 minutes, then uncover and bake until golden and bubbly for another 5-10 minutes.
- Use fresh pineapple or well-drained canned pineapple to avoid excess moisture that can make rolls soggy.
- Pressing the rolls gently after filling helps keep ingredients in place while grilling.
- Serve immediately for the best melty texture; leftovers can be reheated gently in a skillet or oven.
- Optional glaze adds a lovely garlic-parsley flavor and shiny finish but can be omitted if preferred.
