Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese

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Introduction

The Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese takes the classic grilled cheese sandwich to the next level by using soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls as the base. The natural sweetness of the rolls pairs perfectly with the melted, gooey cheese for an irresistible flavor combination. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this grilled cheese is simple to make but packed with deliciousness. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy meal at home or serving it at a gathering, this twist on the classic is sure to satisfy your cravings.

I remember the first time I made this for a family dinner, and the reaction was instant delight. The sweet and savory balance from the Hawaiian rolls and cheese was a hit with everyone. What’s great about this twist on the classic is how versatile it is—you can experiment with different types of cheese or even add extras like crispy bacon or tomato for an extra burst of flavor.

Making this grilled cheese is surprisingly simple. Just butter up those Hawaiian rolls, layer your cheese, and grill them to golden perfection. It’s quick, easy, and totally customizable. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or an exciting twist on a beloved classic, this Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese is sure to become a favorite!

Perfect for:

  • Quick lunches
  • Comfort food cravings
  • Family meals
  • Cozy dinners
  • Kid-friendly snacks

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese is destined to become your new favorite:

  • Sweet and Savory: The sweetness of the Hawaiian rolls complements the rich, savory melted cheese for a perfectly balanced bite.
  • Crunchy and Buttery: The outside gets golden and crispy, while the inside stays soft and cheesy.
  • Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and a fast cooking time, this is a hassle-free meal for busy days.
  • Customizable: You can add your favorite cheese, herbs, or seasonings to personalize the flavor.
  • Kid-Friendly: With its deliciously soft rolls and gooey cheese, this is a sandwich that both kids and adults will love.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 5 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
  • Servings: 2 sandwiches
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 400-500 calories (depending on cheese and butter used)
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 25g

Ingredients

For the Sandwich:

  • 4 Hawaiian rolls (2 sandwiches)
  • 4 slices of your favorite cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or American work well)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • Optional: A pinch of garlic powder or dried herbs (such as basil or thyme) for extra flavor

Ingredient Highlights

  • Hawaiian Rolls: Their sweet, soft texture adds a unique twist to the traditional grilled cheese.
  • Cheese: Choose a cheese that melts well, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for that perfect gooey center.
  • Butter: Ensures a crispy, golden crust on the sandwich.
  • Garlic Powder/Herbs (Optional): A small addition of garlic powder or herbs can elevate the flavor without overwhelming it.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make the Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese:

Prepare the Sandwiches:

  1. Preheat the Pan: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
  2. Butter the Rolls: Cut the Hawaiian rolls in half and spread a thin layer of butter on the outside of each half.
  3. Assemble the Sandwiches: Place 2 slices of cheese on the bottom half of each roll. Top with the other half of the roll.
  4. Add Seasoning (Optional): If desired, sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder or dried herbs on the inside of the rolls before adding the cheese for extra flavor.

Grill the Sandwiches:

  1. Place in the Pan: Carefully place the sandwiches in the hot skillet, buttered-side down.
  2. Cook the Sandwiches: Grill for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
  3. Flip Carefully: Once the first side is golden, flip the sandwich and grill the other side until golden and crispy.

Serve:

  1. Remove and Slice: Once both sides are perfectly crispy and the cheese is melted, remove the sandwiches from the skillet.
  2. Slice and Enjoy: Cut the sandwiches in half diagonally and serve warm.

How to Serve

  • With Soup: This is a classic pairing with tomato soup or any other creamy soup.
  • With Pickles: Serve alongside dill or sweet pickles for a refreshing contrast.
  • On a Platter: Perfect for serving at a party or casual gathering, with a side of chips or a light salad.
  • With a Salad: A side of leafy greens or a light salad can balance the richness of the grilled cheese.
  • With a Dipping Sauce: Serve with marinara sauce or ranch for a fun twist.

Additional Tips

  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If making multiple sandwiches, work in batches to ensure the bread gets crispy and golden.
  • Use Room Temperature Butter: Softened butter makes it easier to spread evenly across the bread.
  • Choose High-Quality Cheese: For the best melt, opt for cheeses that are known for their meltability.
  • Adjust the Heat: If the bread browns too quickly, lower the heat slightly to allow the cheese to melt without burning the bread.

Recipe Variations

  1. Spinach and Cheese Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
  2. Tomato and Basil Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
  3. Spicy Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese (with jalapeños)
  4. Avocado Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
  5. Mushroom and Swiss Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
  6. BBQ Chicken Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
  7. Pesto Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
  8. Buffalo Chicken Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
  9. Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese with Ham (optional)
  10. Vegan Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Wrap sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in a skillet or oven.
  • Storage: Store leftover grilled cheese in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven for the best texture.

Special Equipment

  • Non-stick skillet or griddle
  • Spatula
  • Butter knife

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use a different type of bread? Yes, but Hawaiian rolls give a unique sweetness and soft texture.
  2. Can I make these ahead of time? Grilled cheese sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sandwich assembly in advance and grill them later.
  3. Can I use non-dairy butter or cheese? Yes, use your preferred dairy-free alternatives for a vegan version.
  4. Can I add other ingredients to the filling? Absolutely! Try adding veggies like spinach or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor.
  5. How do I prevent the bread from burning before the cheese melts? Cook on medium-low heat and give the cheese time to melt before flipping.

Conclusion

The Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese is a simple yet delicious twist on a beloved classic. The sweet, soft Hawaiian roll adds a unique flavor that perfectly complements the savory, gooey melted cheese inside. With its crispy golden exterior and melty, cheesy center, this grilled cheese sandwich is a treat for the senses.

Perfect for any meal or occasion, this twist on the traditional grilled cheese will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch, dinner, or a quick snack, it’s a comforting and satisfying choice that never disappoints.

I’d love to see how your Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Enjoy your cheesy goodness!

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