Ultimate Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls Recipe
These Ultimate Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls are a delightful savory treat featuring soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls layered with a cheesy blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack, savory deli beef, and sweet pineapple. The rolls are coated with a flavorful butter and mayonnaise mixture, then grilled to golden perfection on the stovetop or baked for a crispy finish. A garlic parsley glaze adds a flavorful, aromatic touch, making this perfect for parties, snacks, or an irresistible appetizer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 mini sandwiches 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Rolls and Filling
- One (1) 12-count package Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
- 8 ounces (approx. 2 cups) shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 ounces (approx. 1 cup) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 4 ounces (approx. 1 cup) thinly sliced deli beef, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup finely diced pineapple (fresh or well-drained canned)
Butter Mixture
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup (60g) mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Glaze
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare Butter-Mayonnaise Mixture & Slice Rolls: In a bowl, combine the softened butter, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth and well blended. Using a serrated knife, carefully slice the entire block of Hawaiian rolls horizontally about three-quarters of the way through, making sure to keep them hinged at the back so the rolls remain connected.
- Apply Butter Mixture: Open the hinged rolls and generously spread half of the prepared butter-mayonnaise mixture onto the inside surfaces of the rolls. Close the rolls gently, then thoroughly coat all the outside surfaces including the top, bottom, and edges with the remaining butter-mayonnaise mixture for full flavor and crispness.
- Layer Fillings: Gently open the rolls again. Layer half of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on the bottom half of the rolls, followed by all the Monterey Jack cheese. Then add the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Evenly scatter the thinly sliced deli beef pieces and finely diced pineapple over the cheese layers. Close the rolls and press them gently to secure the fillings.
- Stovetop Grilling (Recommended): Preheat a large non-stick skillet over medium-low heat for 3 to 5 minutes. Carefully place the entire block of prepared rolls into the skillet. Cover them and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and the cheese begins to melt. Using a spatula, flip the entire block, cover again, and cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until the other side is also golden and the cheese is fully melted. For extra crispiness, stand the block on its edges in the pan for 1 to 2 minutes per side. Remove the rolls from the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board for 2 to 3 minutes before serving.
- Apply Optional Glaze: While the rolls are resting, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small bowl. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder and 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh parsley until well combined. Generously brush this garlic parsley glaze over the top and sides of the grilled rolls to enhance flavor and add a beautiful finish.
Notes
- If preferred, the rolls can be baked instead of grilled on the stovetop. Bake at 350°F (175°C) covered for 15-20 minutes, then uncovered for 5-10 minutes to crisp the tops.
- Make sure to use fresh or well-drained canned pineapple to avoid excess moisture that might sog the rolls.
- You can substitute deli beef with ham, turkey, or cooked bacon for variety.
- Softened butter and mayo mixture ensures easy spreading and even coating on the rolls.
- Letting the rolls rest after cooking allows the cheese to set, making slicing easier without spilling fillings.
Keywords: mini grilled cheese, Hawaiian rolls, cheesy sandwiches, appetizer, party snacks, savory sweet sandwiches
