If you are looking for a comforting, mouthwatering twist on a classic favorite, this Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Combining the sweet, pillowy texture of Hawaiian rolls with gooey Monterey Jack cheese makes for an irresistible sandwich that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. Whether you want a quick lunch, a satisfying snack, or a fun sandwich to share, this recipe is delightfully simple yet incredibly flavorful, making each bite a pure joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients are all it takes to create the magic in this Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe. Each component plays an important role, from the soft, sweet rolls to the creamy cheese that melts perfectly to create that signature cheesy pull.
- 4 Hawaiian rolls: These provide a slightly sweet and soft base that makes the grilled cheese unforgettable.
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Creamy and mild, this cheese melts beautifully without overpowering the sweetness of the rolls.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Butter helps the bread brown to a golden crisp while adding richness to every bite.
- Optional – sliced tomatoes or crispy bacon: Add these if you want to introduce fresh tang or smoky crunch, boosting the sandwich’s complexity.
How to Make Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Rolls
Begin by slicing the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through. Keeping the halves connected allows the sandwich to fold neatly and hold together as you grill it, making for less mess and more deliciousness in every bite.
Step 2: Butter the Rolls
Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Now, generously spread unsalted butter on the inside surfaces of each roll half. The butter ensures a crispy, golden crust with a rich flavor that beautifully contrasts the soft inside of the rolls.
Step 3: Assemble and Grill
Place the bottom halves of the rolls, butter side down, on the skillet. Pile on the shredded Monterey Jack cheese generously so you get gooey, melty goodness in each bite. If you’re adding extras like tomatoes or bacon, layer them now. Press the top halves gently but firmly onto the cheese-filled bottoms.
Step 4: Cook to Perfection
Grill the sandwiches for about 3 to 4 minutes per side on medium heat, flipping carefully to prevent all the cheesy goodness from spilling out. You’re aiming for golden brown, crispy exteriors with completely melted cheese inside.
Step 5: Serve Hot
Once both sides are beautifully crispy and the cheese is melted through, remove the sandwiches from the skillet. Slice them as desired and serve immediately to enjoy the best melty, sweet-savory combination that the Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe offers.
How to Serve Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes can elevate your Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe to the next level. Consider sprinkling finely chopped green onions or fresh basil leaves for a bright, herbal contrast. A light drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of chili flakes also adds an unexpected kick that pairs wonderfully with the sweet rolls.
Side Dishes
A crunchy side salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the grilled cheese perfectly by adding freshness and balance. Alternatively, crispy sweet potato fries or a bowl of tomato soup make classic companions that bring warmth and satisfying textures alongside the sandwich.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the sandwich into bite-sized sliders for a fun appetizer or party snack. You can also serve it open-faced with a handful of fresh arugula and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant twist. Wrapping it with parchment paper and tying a twine bow creates a charming presentation if you’re packing it for a picnic or lunchbox treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, place the sandwiches in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to two days, making it easy to enjoy this deliciousness even after the initial meal.
Freezing
You can freeze the sandwiches before grilling by wrapping each tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and grill as usual. This makes the Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe convenient for meal prepping or unexpected cravings.
Reheating
To reheat, place the sandwich on a skillet over low heat to regain that crispy crust and melt the cheese evenly without drying out the soft rolls. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy and lose that wonderful texture that makes this recipe special.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Monterey Jack melts beautifully and complements the sweetness of the rolls, you can substitute with cheddar, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses depending on your preference.
Are Hawaiian rolls necessary?
Hawaiian rolls bring a unique sweetness and fluffiness that make this sandwich stand out. However, if you want a less sweet option, you can use brioche or soft white rolls, but it won’t have quite the same signature flavor.
What can I add to make it more filling?
Try adding crispy bacon strips, sautéed mushrooms, or slices of ripe tomato. These additions add texture, flavor, and substance, turning this sandwich into a true meal.
How do I prevent cheese from leaking out?
Pressing the sandwich gently when assembling helps the cheese bind with the bread. Also, use medium heat and flip carefully to keep everything neatly inside while the cheese melts.
Can this be made vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! Use vegan butter and plant-based cheese alternatives, and choose rolls that meet vegan standards. The sandwich will still be delicious with those swaps.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe is truly a little slice of comfort food heaven that’s easy enough for any day but special enough to impress. Whether you stick to the basics or get creative with add-ons, you’ll find yourself coming back to this sweet and cheesy combination time and time again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy crafting a grilled cheese with a delightful twist that feels like a warm hug from the inside out.
Print
Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic sandwich, featuring soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls paired with melted Monterey Jack cheese. Easy to prepare and perfect for a quick lunch or snack, you can customize it with optional additions like sliced tomatoes or crispy bacon to elevate the flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 Hawaiian rolls
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Optional Ingredients
- Sliced tomatoes
- Crispy bacon
Instructions
- Prepare the rolls: Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half carefully without cutting all the way through, creating a hinge so the halves stay attached.
- Butter the rolls: Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Butter the insides of each roll generously to ensure a golden, crispy exterior.
- Add cheese and assemble: Place the bottom halves of the rolls buttered side down on the skillet. Fill them generously with shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and if desired, add optional sliced tomatoes or crispy bacon. Press the top halves over to close the sandwich slightly.
- Grill the sandwiches: Cook the sandwiches for about 3-4 minutes on each side, flipping carefully to avoid spilling the cheese. Grill until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is thoroughly melted.
- Serve hot: Once both sides are crispy and the cheese is melted, remove the sandwiches from heat. Slice if desired and serve immediately while warm and gooey.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the butter before spreading on the rolls.
- You can substitute Monterey Jack cheese with other meltable cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack depending on your taste preferences.
- If adding bacon, cook it to a crispy texture beforehand to avoid sogginess.
- Serve with a side of tomato soup for a classic pairing.
- Be careful when flipping the sandwiches to keep the cheese from spilling out.
