This 15-Minute Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese is a quick, delicious take on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. Made with soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls and melted cheese, it’s the perfect comfort food—crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and ready in minutes. I love making a batch for lunch, snacks, or even an easy dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how fast and satisfying this grilled cheese recipe is. The sweet rolls give each bite a soft, pillowy texture with a touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with melted cheese. Cooking the whole sheet of rolls together makes it super easy and great for sharing. It’s my go-to when I want something warm, cheesy, and ready in no time.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Hawaiian sweet rolls (a 12-pack works perfectly)
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Sliced cheese (like cheddar, American, mozzarella, or a mix)
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Butter (softened, for spreading)
Directions
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I preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
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I slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally while keeping all the rolls connected in a block.
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I place the bottom half of the rolls in the skillet, then add slices of cheese evenly across the entire surface.
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I place the top half of the rolls back on, gently pressing down.
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I spread a layer of butter on the tops of the rolls while they’re in the pan.
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I cook for about 3–4 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown, then carefully flip the whole block over.
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I cook the other side for another 3–4 minutes, pressing down lightly so the cheese melts evenly.
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Once the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted, I remove the block from the pan and slice it into individual sandwiches.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 12 mini grilled cheese sandwiches, perfect for sharing or enjoying over a couple of meals. It takes about 5 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook, so it’s ready to eat in just 15 minutes.
Variations
I like switching up the cheese—sometimes I use sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor or mozzarella for extra stretchiness. For a little kick, I’ve used pepper jack, and when I want something a little richer, I add a layer of cream cheese with the slices. A thin slice of tomato also adds a fresh twist.
storage/reheating
These are best when fresh, but I store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I use a skillet or toaster oven so they stay crispy. I skip the microwave—it makes them soft instead of toasty.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, I can assemble them ahead and refrigerate until I’m ready to cook. That way, they’re fresh and melty when served.
What kind of cheese works best?
I like cheddar or American for a classic taste, but any melty cheese will work—provolone, mozzarella, or a blend all melt beautifully.
Can I bake them instead of using a skillet?
Absolutely. I bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.
Should I keep the rolls connected while cooking?
I find it easier to cook and flip them when they stay connected. I just slice them into individual pieces after they’re done.
Are Hawaiian rolls too sweet?
Not at all. The slight sweetness actually makes the sandwich taste even better by balancing the salty cheese.
Conclusion
This 15-Minute Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese is one of the easiest and most satisfying meals I make. It’s crispy, melty, and full of flavor—and it comes together fast with just a few ingredients. Whether I’m cooking for myself or a crowd, this simple recipe always delivers.
Print15-Minute Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
15-Minute Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese is a fast and delicious twist on the classic sandwich. Made with soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls and melty cheese, this crispy, gooey comfort food is perfect for lunch, snacks, or easy dinners.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 mini sandwiches
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 pack (12-count) Hawaiian sweet rolls
- 6–8 slices cheese (cheddar, American, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 2–3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions
- Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Keeping the rolls connected, slice the entire pack in half horizontally.
- Place the bottom half of the rolls in the skillet.
- Layer cheese slices evenly across the surface.
- Place the top half of the rolls back on and gently press down.
- Spread softened butter over the tops of the rolls.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes until bottoms are golden brown, then carefully flip the block over.
- Cook the other side for another 3–4 minutes until golden and cheese is melted.
- Remove from pan, slice into individual sandwiches, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for different flavors.
- Add thin tomato slices or a spread of cream cheese for variety.
- To reheat, use a skillet or toaster oven for best texture.
- Bake instead of pan-cooking at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes if preferred.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini sandwich
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
