Cheesy Hawaiian Roll Sliders
Hola! I’m a Florida girl who grew up pressing tortillas beside my mama, but today, we’re talking about a melt-in-your-mouth comfort food twist: Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls.
These buttery, golden bites remind me of those cozy Sunday afternoons when family laughter filled the kitchen and everyone wanted something cheesy, warm, and quick to share.
The sweet rolls, melted cheddar and mozzarella, and buttery garlic topping make them irresistibly satisfying.
Perfect for parties, snack ideas, or family game nights, these Hawaiian roll grilled cheese sliders combine fun, flavor, and comfort all in one bite.
Quick Recipe Overview
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 20 minutes |
| Total Time: | 35 minutes |
| Servings: | 12 mini sandwiches |
| Difficulty: | Easy |
| Cuisine: | American / Hawaiian Fusion |
| Best Season: | All year round |
What Makes These Mini Rolls Special
- Sweet Meets Savory: The buttery sweetness of Hawaiian rolls pairs beautifully with gooey melted cheese for the ultimate flavor combo.
- Crowd-Pleasing Snack: These mini grilled cheese Hawaiian rolls are perfect for parties, potlucks, or movie nights. Everyone grabs one, and they disappear fast.
- Quick and Easy: With only a handful of ingredients and less than 40 minutes, this is one of those Hawaiian roll recipes you’ll make again and again.
- Endlessly Customizable: Add bacon, ham, or herbs to create your own slider recipes with Hawaiian rolls.
- Kid-Friendly & Fun: These little sliders are perfectly portioned for tiny hands and big appetites alike.
Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls are buttery, cheesy, and irresistibly melty! Sweet Hawaiian rolls meet gooey cheddar and mozzarella, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for parties, snacks, or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian rolls
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (oregano or basil, optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Without separating them, slice the entire pack of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally.
3. Spread softened butter on the cut sides of both top and bottom halves.
4. If using garlic powder, sprinkle it over the buttered rolls.
5. Distribute shredded cheddar and mozzarella evenly over the bottom half.
6. Place the top half of the rolls back on.
7. Wrap the rolls tightly in aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 15–20 minutes until cheese melts.
9. Unwrap and bake for 5 more minutes to toast the tops.
10. Slice and serve warm.
Notes
Serve with tomato soup or salad for a full meal. Add ham or jalapeños for extra flavor. Best eaten warm. Can be frozen and reheated wrapped in foil for easy serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 5
- Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 5
Ingredients List
- 12 Hawaiian rolls
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (oregano or basil, optional)
Ingredient Tips Table
| Ingredient | Tip |
|---|---|
| Hawaiian rolls | Use fresh, soft rolls for the best texture and sweet flavor. |
| Cheddar cheese | Sharp cheddar gives a bold flavor that balances the sweetness of the rolls. |
| Mozzarella cheese | Melts beautifully, creating that perfect cheese pull moment. |
| Butter | Soften at room temperature for easy spreading and golden crust. |
| Garlic powder | Adds a subtle savory note, enhancing the flavor without overpowering. |
| Dried herbs | Oregano or basil adds a touch of Italian flair and aroma. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when your sliders are assembled.
- Slice the Rolls: Without separating the rolls, slice the entire batch horizontally to create a top and bottom layer.
- Butter Both Sides: Spread the softened butter generously over the cut sides of both halves. This creates a crispy, buttery surface once baked.
- Season for Flavor: Sprinkle garlic powder and herbs evenly across the buttered surfaces if you’re using them.
- Add the Cheese: Spread shredded cheddar and mozzarella evenly over the bottom layer of rolls. Cover fully for a gooey, cheesy finish.
- Top and Press: Replace the top half of the rolls carefully, aligning them neatly. Press down gently to help the layers stick.
- Wrap in Foil: Wrap the assembled rolls tightly in aluminum foil to keep them soft and moist as they bake.
- Bake: Place the foil-wrapped rolls on a baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes until the cheese melts completely.
- Toast to Finish: Unwrap the foil, return the rolls to the oven, and bake for an additional 5 minutes to achieve that golden, slightly crisp top.
- Slice and Serve: Remove from the oven, let them cool slightly, then slice along the roll lines and serve warm.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Use Two Cheeses: Mixing cheddar and mozzarella gives the best flavor and stretch.
- Keep Them Covered: Wrapping in foil helps the cheese melt evenly without drying the bread.
- Add a Twist: For a savory upgrade, mix a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or finely chopped green onions into the butter.
- Serve Immediately: These are best enjoyed hot when the cheese is still melty and gooey.
Fun Recipe Variations
- Ham and Cheese Hawaiian Sliders: Add thinly sliced deli ham between the cheese layers for extra heartiness.
- Pizza-Style Rolls: Add marinara sauce, pepperoni, and mozzarella for a mini pizza twist everyone loves.
- Garlic Parmesan Rolls: Swap cheddar for Parmesan and brush with garlic butter for Italian-inspired sliders.
- Spicy Jalapeño Rolls: Add finely chopped jalapeños for a fun, spicy bite.
Serving and Pairing Ideas
These mini grilled cheese Hawaiian rolls pair perfectly with tomato soup, a crisp green salad, or even a side of ranch for dipping. Serve them as appetizers for gatherings or as a fun lunch option alongside fruit and chips.
Love bite-sized comfort food? If you’re a fan of cozy, easy-to-make treats, don’t miss my Mini Chocolate Chip Cookies: A Comprehensive Guide to Baking Perfection. They’re soft, chewy, and perfect alongside these cheesy Hawaiian roll sliders!
Make Ahead & Freezer Tips
You can assemble the rolls up to a day in advance, wrap them tightly in foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, pop them in the oven and add 5 extra minutes to the baking time. Cooked rolls can be frozen in freezer-safe bags for up to a month. Reheat wrapped in foil for 10–12 minutes at 325°F.
Presentation & Serving Tips
Arrange the rolls on a wooden board and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a bright, fresh look. Serve warm, letting the melted cheese stretch as you pull each one apart. These mini sliders look especially tempting when served in their foil for a cozy, casual vibe.
Kitchen Wisdom
- Don’t Skip the Foil: It locks in moisture and helps the cheese melt perfectly.
- Double the Batch: They go fast, so make extra if you’re feeding a crowd.
- Add Sweet & Savory Touches: A drizzle of honey butter on top adds amazing contrast.
- Make it a Meal: Pair with soup or a side salad for a satisfying family dinner.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the rolls in foil and warm in the oven at 325°F for 8–10 minutes. Avoid microwaving uncovered, as it can make the bread rubbery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different cheese types?
Yes, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, provolone, or gouda for a unique twist.
Do I have to use Hawaiian rolls?
The sweet rolls give the recipe its signature flavor, but you can substitute with dinner rolls or brioche.
Can I add protein like ham or turkey?
Definitely! Adding deli meats makes these rolls heartier and turns them into mini sandwiches.
Can these be made gluten-free?
Use gluten-free slider rolls and all-natural cheese to make a gluten-free version.
What’s the best way to keep them warm for parties?
Keep them wrapped in foil and place in a warm oven (around 200°F) until serving time.
Are they freezer-friendly?
Yes! Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to a month. Reheat in foil until hot.
What other recipes can I make with Hawaiian rolls?
You can try my Hawaiian Chicken Sliders or Sweet Roll Breakfast Sandwiches next time for more fun ideas with Hawaiian rolls.
Nutrition Info
| Serving Size: | 1 mini roll |
| Calories: | 200 kcal |
| Protein: | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates: | 18 g |
| Fat: | 10 g |
| Fiber: | 1 g |
| Sugar: | 5 g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Author’s Note
Growing up in Orlando, family cooking was always about comfort and connection. These Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls capture that same feeling: warm, golden, and filled with love. Whether you’re making them for your kids, friends, or yourself, they bring smiles every time. I tested them in my kitchen until they came out perfectly cheesy and buttery, just the way comfort food should be.
From My Kitchen to Yours
These Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls are pure happiness in bite-sized form. Easy, fast, and always delicious, they’re everything comfort food should be. Make them once, and they’ll become your go-to for parties, snacks, or cozy evenings at home.
