Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls with Roast Beef and Pineapple Recipe

Introduction

These Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls combine sweet, savory, and melty flavors in a delightful bite-sized sandwich. Perfect for parties or a tasty snack, they bring together roast beef, cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheese on soft, sweet rolls with an optional touch of pineapple for a tropical twist.

Ingredients

• 1 (12-count) package King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
• 8 slices deli-sliced roast beef
• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp or medium cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional)
• ¼ cup finely diced canned pineapple, well-drained (optional)
• Pinch black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Slice the entire block of 12 Hawaiian rolls horizontally through the middle, separating top and bottom halves.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, combine shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
3. Step 3: Cut deli-sliced roast beef into smaller, manageable pieces.
4. Step 4: If using, thoroughly drain and finely dice canned pineapple, pressing out excess moisture with paper towels.
5. Step 5: Combine the shredded cheeses, roast beef, drained pineapple (if using), and a pinch of black pepper in a bowl. Toss until well-mixed.
6. Step 6: Place the bottom half of the rolls on a cutting board. Evenly spread the filling mixture over the entire surface.
7. Step 7: Gently place the top half of the rolls back over the filling and press lightly to secure.
8. Step 8: In a small bowl, mix softened unsalted butter with mayonnaise (if using) until smooth.
9. Step 9: Generously brush the butter-mayo mixture over the entire top and bottom surfaces of the assembled rolls.
10. Step 10: Carefully slice the entire block of rolls into individual mini sandwiches along the natural perforations.
11. Step 11: Preheat a large non-stick skillet or electric griddle over medium-low heat for 3-5 minutes.
12. Step 12: Arrange the mini sandwiches in a single layer on the preheated skillet, without overcrowding.
13. Step 13: Grill for 3-5 minutes per side, until each side is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is thoroughly melted and gooey.
14. Step 14: If cheese needs further melting, cover the pan on very low heat for 1-2 minutes, then uncover immediately.
15. Step 15: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Optionally, garnish with chopped chives or parsley.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a thin layer of Dijon mustard or horseradish sauce under the cheese mixture before assembling the rolls.
• Try swapping roast beef for deli turkey or ham for a different twist.
• Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique melting texture and taste.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle a bit of crushed red pepper flakes into the filling.
• Make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the roast beef and adding grilled mushrooms or caramelized onions.

Storage

Store any leftover mini sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat until the cheese melts again, or use a microwave for about 20-30 seconds. Avoid reheating in a toaster oven without covering to prevent over-browning.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare these mini sandwiches ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the mini sandwiches up to a few hours before grilling. Keep them covered in the refrigerator and grill just before serving to ensure they stay fresh and melty.

What can I use instead of canned pineapple?

If you prefer fresh pineapple, chop it finely and drain well to avoid excess moisture. You can also omit pineapple entirely if you’re not a fan of the sweet contrast.

Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls with Roast Beef and Pineapple Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 102 reviews

Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls are delightful bite-sized sandwiches made with soft, sweet King’s Hawaiian rolls stuffed with a savory blend of roast beef, cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheeses, optionally enhanced with juicy pineapple. They’re perfectly grilled on a skillet to a golden crisp with melted, gooey cheese inside – ideal as a delicious appetizer or snack.

• Author: Ruby
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 12 mini sandwiches 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Rolls and Spread

• 1 (12-count) package King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional)

Filling

• 8 slices deli-sliced roast beef
• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp or medium cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• ¼ cup finely diced canned pineapple, well-drained (optional)
• Pinch black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Slice the Rolls: Slice the entire block of 12 Hawaiian rolls horizontally through the middle, separating top and bottom halves.
2. Combine Cheeses: In a bowl, combine shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
3. Prepare Roast Beef: Cut deli-sliced roast beef into smaller, manageable pieces for even distribution.
4. Prepare Pineapple: If using, thoroughly drain and finely dice canned pineapple, pressing out excess moisture with paper towels to prevent sogginess.
5. Make Filling Mixture: Combine the shredded cheeses, roast beef, drained pineapple (if using), and a pinch of black pepper in a bowl. Toss until well-mixed to ensure consistent flavor in every bite.
6. Assemble Base Layer: Place the bottom half of the rolls on a cutting board. Evenly spread the filling mixture over the entire surface.
7. Reassemble Rolls: Gently place the top half of the rolls back over the filling and press lightly to secure everything in place.
8. Prepare Butter Spread: In a small bowl, mix softened unsalted butter with mayonnaise (if using) until smooth. This will be brushed on the rolls for a golden, flavorful crust.
9. Butter the Rolls: Generously brush the butter-mayo mixture over the entire top and bottom surfaces of the assembled rolls.
10. Slice Mini Sandwiches: Carefully slice the entire block of rolls into individual mini sandwiches along the natural perforations for easy grilling and serving.
11. Preheat Skillet: Preheat a large non-stick skillet or electric griddle over medium-low heat for 3-5 minutes to ensure even toasting.
12. Grill Sandwiches: Arrange the mini sandwiches in a single layer on the preheated skillet without overcrowding to allow proper browning.
13. Cook Each Side: Grill for 3-5 minutes per side, until each side is golden brown and crispy and the cheese inside is melted and gooey.
14. Additional Melt: If cheese needs further melting, cover the pan on very low heat for 1-2 minutes, then uncover immediately to avoid steaming.
15. Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Optionally, garnish with chopped chives or parsley for freshness and color.

Notes

• Ensure pineapple is well-drained to prevent soggy sandwiches.
• Use medium-low heat to avoid burning the rolls before the cheese melts fully.
• Mayonnaise in the butter spread adds an extra tang and helps with browning but can be omitted if desired.
• These mini sandwiches are best served fresh and warm for optimal texture and flavor.
• Feel free to substitute roast beef with ham or turkey for variation.

Keywords: mini grilled cheese, Hawaiian rolls, roast beef sandwiches, appetizer, cheesy sandwiches, easy snacks, party food