Irresistible 15-Minute Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese (Fast & Gooey!)

If you love quick comfort food that feels a little magical, this 15-Minute Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese is about to become your go-to recipe. It transforms soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls into golden pull-apart grilled cheese sliders with a buttery crust and ultra-gooey melted cheese. Even better? It all comes together in less than 15 minutes perfect for busy weeknights, game-day snacks, or whenever you need instant cheesy happiness.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to assemble, toast, serve, and customize this crowd-pleasing recipe. Whether you’re cooking for kids, teens, or hungry adults, these buttery mini grilled cheese sandwiches hit every nostalgic note with almost no effort.

15-Minute Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Recipe

Quick Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 12 mini sandwiches
• Calories: ~165 per slider

Ingredients

• 1 (12-count) package Hawaiian rolls
• 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, thinly sliced or shredded
• 4 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt
• Optional: 1 tbsp honey butter for brushing

Instructions

1. Slice the rolls: Keep the Hawaiian rolls connected. Use a serrated knife to slice them horizontally into a top layer and bottom layer.
2. Layer the cheese: Place cheddar evenly on the bottom layer. Sprinkle mozzarella over top for extra meltiness.
3. Add the lid: Place the top layer of rolls back on.
4. Make the butter topping: Stir melted butter with garlic powder, paprika, and salt.
5. Brush & toast: Brush the butter mixture over the rolls. Heat a large skillet over medium-low and place the entire slab in the pan.
6. Cover & melt: Cover with a lid and cook 4–5 minutes until the underside is golden and the cheese begins melting.
7. Flip carefully: Slide a spatula underneath and gently flip. Cook another 3–4 minutes.
8. Serve warm: Remove from heat, cool 1 minute, then pull apart and enjoy.

Substitutions & Dietary Swaps

This recipe is incredibly flexible, making it easy to adapt for dietary needs or flavor preferences while keeping the signature sweet-and-savory spirit of the 15-Minute Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese.

• Gluten-Free: Swap Hawaiian rolls for gluten-free brioche-style slider buns.
• Dairy-Free: Use a melt-friendly vegan cheese such as Violife or Chao.
• Low-Sodium: Choose reduced-sodium cheese and omit added salt.
• Spicy Version: Add pepper jack or a drizzle of sriracha before melting.
• Protein Boost: Add thin slices of deli ham or turkey between layers.

Chef’s Pro Tips

• Use low heat: This ensures the cheese melts fully before the bread browns too much.
• Cover the skillet: Traps steam and accelerates melting.
• Don’t overspread butter: Too much butter on the bottom can cause burning.
• Add honey butter: For a glossy, bakery-style finish, brush lightly after cooking.
• Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that reduce creaminess.

Make Ahead, Storage & Reheating

You can prep this recipe ahead or store leftovers without losing the soft, melty joy of the original.

Make Ahead

Assemble the rolls (without butter topping) up to 24 hours in advance. Wrap tightly and refrigerate. Brush with butter just before cooking.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The rolls will remain soft thanks to their enriched dough.

Reheating

• Skillet (Best): Heat on low for 3–4 minutes per side.
• Oven: Bake at 325°F for 6–8 minutes.
• Air Fryer: 300°F for 3–4 minutes (watch closely!).

Troubleshooting & Common Mistakes

• Cheese not melting: Heat too high. Lower heat and cover the skillet.
• Bottom burning quickly: Reduce heat and add a thin layer of butter or oil.
• Rolls drying out: Brush with additional butter after cooking.
• Sandwiches falling apart: Slice cheese more evenly or reduce fillings.
• Uneven browning: Rotate the skillet halfway through cooking.

Flavor Pairings & Serving Suggestions

These mini grilled cheese sliders pair beautifully with bright, savory, and tangy dishes that balance the sweetness of Hawaiian rolls.

• Irresistible Gingersnap Pecans (Easy Holiday Snack Recipe)
  

For additional food safety guidance, see this USDA resource.

15-Minute Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese

This 15-Minute Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese turns soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls into golden, buttery pull-apart sandwiches with ultra-melty cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, game day, or a fun family lunch!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 12 sliders

Course: Lunch, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 170

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese

• 1 package Hawaiian rolls 12-count, kept attached
• 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese thinly sliced or shredded
• 4 oz mozzarella cheese shredded

Butter Topping

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter melted
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp honey butter optional, for brushing after cooking

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Lid or Cover
• Serrated Knife
• Pastry Brush

Method

 

1. Keeping the Hawaiian rolls attached, use a serrated knife to slice them horizontally into a top layer and a bottom layer.
2. Place the bottom layer of rolls on a cutting board or tray. Evenly layer the sharp cheddar cheese over the bottom, then sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top.
3. Place the top layer of rolls back on to form one large slab of sandwiches.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, garlic powder, paprika, and kosher salt until well combined.
5. Brush the butter mixture generously over the tops of the rolls.
6. Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Carefully transfer the entire slab of rolls to the skillet, buttered side up.
7. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 4–5 minutes, or until the bottom is golden and the cheese is starting to melt.
8. Using a large spatula, carefully flip the slab of rolls. Cover again and cook for another 3–4 minutes, until the second side is golden and the cheese is fully melted.
9. Remove from the skillet and let rest for 1 minute. If desired, brush lightly with honey butter for a glossy finish, then pull apart into sliders and serve warm.

Notes

For best results, cook over medium-low heat so the cheese melts fully without burning the rolls. Feel free to customize the fillings with deli ham, bacon, or jalapeños for an extra flavor boost.

FAQs

Can I bake these instead of cooking them on a skillet?

Yes! Bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes, covered with foil for the first half to prevent browning too quickly.

What cheese melts best for Hawaiian roll grilled cheese?

Cheddar and mozzarella make the perfect combo of sharp flavor and creaminess, but Colby, Swiss, or pepper jack work too.

Can I make this recipe with savory rolls?

Absolutely. Brioche or potato rolls are great if you prefer a less sweet base.

How do I prevent the rolls from getting soggy?

Don’t overuse butter or sauce inside the sandwich. Keep fillings minimal for the best texture.

Can I freeze these?

Yes! Freeze after assembling (before cooking), then thaw in the fridge and cook as directed.

What’s the best way to cut the rolls?

A serrated bread knife ensures the cleanest cut without crushing the rolls.

Can I add toppings?

Yes! caramelized onions, bacon bits, jalapeños, or thin deli meats work great.

Conclusion

When you need quick comfort food that never disappoints, this 15-Minute Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese delivers every time. With its buttery crust, melty cheese center, and irresistible sweet-and-savory flavor, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Save this recipe, share it, and come back anytime you need a fast cheesy fix!