A quick and easy grilled cheese made with sweet Hawaiian rolls.
introduction
This Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese is fast and tasty. It uses soft, sweet rolls and melted Monterey Jack. If you like sweet bread and soft cake, you might also enjoy a Hawaiian wedding cake with whipped cream cheese as a follow-up treat.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe when you want a snack or a fast lunch. It cooks in minutes. Kids like the sweet roll and melted cheese. You need few ingredients and a single pan.
how to make Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
Slice the rolls and butter the insides. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Put the bottom halves on the skillet, add cheese, and press with the top halves. Flip carefully when the bottom is golden. Grill the other side until golden and the cheese melts. For a different stuffed idea, see how others fill rolls like these cheeseburger egg rolls for more inspiration.
Ingredients :
- 4 Hawaiian rolls
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Optional: Sliced tomatoes or crispy bacon
Directions :
- Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half without cutting all the way through.
- Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and butter the insides of each roll.
- Place the bottom halves of the rolls on the skillet and fill generously with cheese. Press down slightly with the top halves.
- Grill until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side, flipping carefully.
- Once both sides are crispy and cheese is melted, remove from heat, slice, and serve hot.
how to serve Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
Serve hot and fresh so the cheese is gooey. Add sliced tomatoes or crispy bacon inside for more flavor. You can serve with a small salad or fries. If you want a hearty side, try a recipe for savory steak and cheese egg rolls as a main or sharing plate.
how to store Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
Cool completely before storing. Put in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat so the outside gets crisp and the cheese melts again. Avoid a microwave if you want the roll to stay crispy.
tips to make Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
- Use room temperature butter so it spreads easily.
- Press gently when grilling to get even browning.
- Use a cover for the pan for a minute at the end if the cheese needs more melting.
- Try different cheeses like cheddar or provolone to change the flavor. For a sweet dessert idea to pair after this sandwich, consider an apple pie stuffed cheesecake.
variation (if any)
- Add sliced tomatoes and basil for a fresh bite.
- Add crispy bacon for a smoky taste.
- Make mini sliders using smaller rolls for a party tray.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other rolls?
A: Yes. Use any soft roll, but Hawaiian rolls add a sweet touch.
Q: Can I make this for many people?
A: Yes. Multiply the ingredients and cook in batches.
Q: Can I add more fillings?
A: Yes. Add bacon, tomato, ham, or grilled onions.
Q: How do I keep the rolls from getting soggy?
A: Butter the rolls and grill on medium heat. Do not add wet ingredients until serving.
Conclusion
For another take on Hawaiian roll grilled cheese, you can read This Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese write-up that shows a similar method. For a garlicky spin on the same idea, see this recipe for Garlic grilled cheese on Hawaiian rolls.

Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 rolls Hawaiian rolls Soft and sweet rolls
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese Melted cheese filling
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter For buttering the rolls
Optional Add-ins
- to taste sliced tomatoes For added freshness
- to taste crispy bacon For a smoky flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half without cutting all the way through.
- Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and butter the insides of each roll.
Cooking
- Place the bottom halves of the rolls on the skillet and fill generously with cheese. Press down slightly with the top halves.
- Grill until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side, flipping carefully.
- Once both sides are crispy and cheese is melted, remove from heat, slice, and serve hot.