There’s something about the combination of buttery Hawaiian rolls, melty cheese, and a crisp golden-brown exterior that just hits the spot. I remember the first time I tried this Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese – it was a revelation. I was hosting a small gathering for some close friends, and I wanted to whip up something quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious. That’s when I stumbled upon this recipe, and let me tell you, it was an instant hit.
As my guests arrived, the irresistible aroma of toasted bread and melted cheese filled the air, drawing them straight to the kitchen. They couldn’t believe their eyes when they saw the golden-brown sandwiches, adorned with the soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls. It was like a gourmet spin on the classic grilled cheese, but with a tropical twist that had everyone clamoring for more.
I distinctly remember the look of pure delight on their faces as they took that first bite, the cheese oozing out and the crispy edges providing a satisfying crunch. The flavors were so perfectly balanced, with the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses creating a rich, creamy base, and the Hawaiian rolls adding a subtle sweetness that elevated the entire dish.
Table of Contents
Why This Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
What makes this Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese recipe so special is the way the ingredients come together to create a truly extraordinary dish. The use of Hawaiian rolls as the bread base is the key to its success, as their soft, slightly sweet texture perfectly complements the melted cheese and crisp exterior. By slicing the rolls in half horizontally, you create the perfect vessel for the gooey, cheesy filling, ensuring that every bite is a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.
But the secret doesn’t stop there. The combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses is what really takes this grilled cheese to the next level. The cheddar provides a rich, sharp flavor, while the Monterey Jack adds a creamy, mild note that balances out the overall taste. And by shredding the cheeses, you ensure that they melt evenly throughout the sandwich, creating a gooey, cheese-pull worthy experience with every bite.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- 12 Hawaiian rolls, sliced in half horizontally: These soft, slightly sweet rolls are the foundation of this recipe, providing the perfect bread base for the melted cheese.
- 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese: The sharp, bold flavor of cheddar is a crucial component, adding depth and richness to the overall dish.
- 4 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese: The creamy, mild Monterey Jack cheese balances out the cheddar, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: The butter is essential for achieving that perfectly crisp, golden-brown exterior on the sandwich, while also adding a rich, buttery flavor.
Step-by-Step Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Instructions
Preparing Your Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
With a prep time of just 5 minutes and a cook time of 10 minutes, this Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese recipe is a quick and easy way to satisfy your comfort food cravings. All you’ll need is a skillet or griddle and a few simple ingredients to create this mouthwatering masterpiece.
1- Start by slicing the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, creating 12 individual sandwich halves. Arrange the rolls on a clean work surface, ready to be assembled.
2- In a small bowl, combine the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Spread the softened butter evenly on the cut sides of the Hawaiian rolls, ensuring a thorough coating.
3- Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once the surface is hot, begin assembling the sandwiches by placing a generous amount of the cheese mixture onto the bottom half of each roll. Top with the corresponding top half, pressing down gently to secure the sandwich.
4- Place the assembled sandwiches in the preheated skillet or griddle, and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden-brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5- Carefully flip the sandwiches using a spatula, being mindful of the hot surface, and continue cooking for an additional 4-5 minutes until the second side is crisp and golden.
6- Once the Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese sandwiches are cooked to perfection, remove them from the skillet or griddle and serve immediately, while the cheese is still warm and melty.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use high-quality, freshly shredded cheeses for the best melting and flavor.
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy spreading and even browning.
- Keep a close eye on the sandwiches while cooking, adjusting the heat as needed to prevent burning.
- For a crispy exterior, press down on the sandwiches with a spatula during the cooking process.
Serving and Storing Your Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
Perfect Pairings for Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
This Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese recipe serves 6 hearty servings, making it the perfect dish for a casual gathering or a cozy family dinner. To complement the rich, melty flavors, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad or a bowl of creamy tomato soup. For beverages, a refreshing iced tea or a cold glass of lemonade would be the perfect accompaniment, providing a refreshing contrast to the savory sandwich.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
If you find yourself with any leftovers (which is highly unlikely!), you can easily store and reheat them for later. For refrigerator storage, simply place the cooled sandwiches in an airtight container and they will keep for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the sandwiches in a skillet or on a baking sheet and heat them in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crisp.
For longer-term storage, you can also freeze the assembled, uncooked sandwiches. Wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, simply remove the sandwiches from the freezer and cook them straight from frozen, following the same cooking instructions, adjusting the time as needed.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
Creative Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Variations
While the classic Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese is sure to delight, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this recipe. Try swapping out the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses for a blend of your favorite melty cheeses, such as provolone, Swiss, or even a touch of crumbled feta. For a more savory twist, you could also add thinly sliced ham, turkey, or even crispy bacon to the filling.
Another tasty variation is to incorporate seasonal ingredients. In the fall, you could try adding a layer of thinly sliced apples or a drizzle of apple butter. For a springtime twist, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the cheese mixture. The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing this versatile and delicious grilled cheese.
Making Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Diet-Friendly
To make this Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese recipe more diet-friendly, there are a few simple substitutions you can try. For a gluten-free version, swap out the Hawaiian rolls for gluten-free bread or even use sliced gluten-free rolls. For a low-carb adaptation, you could use keto-friendly rolls or even lettuce wraps in place of the bread.
If you’re looking to reduce the overall fat and calorie content, you can experiment with lower-fat cheese varieties, such as part-skim mozzarella or reduced-fat cheddar. Additionally, you could use a plant-based butter substitute or a light margarine in place of the traditional unsalted butter. With a few simple swaps, you can enjoy all the delicious flavors of this Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese while making it a bit more diet-friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While the combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses is delicious, you can certainly experiment with other melty cheese varieties, such as provolone, Swiss, or even a touch of crumbled feta.
Q: How long does it take to make this Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese?
A: This recipe has a total time of just 15 minutes, with a prep time of 5 minutes and a cook time of 10 minutes. It’s a quick and easy way to satisfy your comfort food cravings.
Q: Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can! The assembled, uncooked sandwiches can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply remove them from the freezer and cook them straight from frozen, following the same instructions.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese recipe makes 6 hearty servings, perfect for a small gathering or a family-style meal.
Q: What should I do if the bread starts to burn?
A: If the bread is browning too quickly, simply adjust the heat to medium-low and continue cooking, flipping the sandwiches as needed. You can also try covering the skillet with a lid to help the cheese melt more evenly.
Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
- Total Time: 15
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Indulge in the irresistible combination of sweet Hawaiian rolls and melty, gooey cheese with this quick and easy Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese recipe. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or anytime snack, this grilled cheese sandwich is a new family favorite.
Ingredients
– 12 Hawaiian rolls, sliced in half horizontally
– 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Spread a thin layer of butter on the outside of the Hawaiian roll halves.
3. Place the bottom halves of the rolls in the preheated skillet and top each with a generous amount of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
4. Place the top halves of the rolls on the cheese and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown.
5. Carefully flip the sandwiches and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
6. Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and serve immediately, while the cheese is still warm and gooey.
Notes
For extra flavor, try adding a touch of garlic powder or paprika to the butter before spreading it on the rolls. You can also experiment with different cheese combinations, such as Swiss or Provolone.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Bites & Finger Foods
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese is a true masterpiece of comfort food, blending the soft, sweet notes of Hawaiian rolls with the rich, melty goodness of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. This recipe is a surefire way to elevate your grilled cheese game, offering a unique and delicious twist on a classic dish.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering, craving a cozy meal, or simply looking for a quick and easy recipe to satisfy your taste buds, this Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese is sure to become a new household favorite. So don’t hesitate to give it a try – I can guarantee that your friends and family will be begging you for the recipe after just one bite. Bon appétit!
