Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls with Roast Beef and Pineapple Recipe
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
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
- Slice the Rolls: Slice the entire block of 12 Hawaiian rolls horizontally through the middle, separating top and bottom halves.
- Combine Cheeses: In a bowl, combine shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
- Prepare Roast Beef: Cut deli-sliced roast beef into smaller, manageable pieces for even distribution.
- Prepare Pineapple: If using, thoroughly drain and finely dice canned pineapple, pressing out excess moisture with paper towels to prevent sogginess.
- 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.
- Assemble Base Layer: Place the bottom half of the rolls on a cutting board. Evenly spread the filling mixture over the entire surface.
- Reassemble Rolls: Gently place the top half of the rolls back over the filling and press lightly to secure everything in place.
- 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.
- Butter the Rolls: Generously brush the butter-mayo mixture over the entire top and bottom surfaces of the assembled rolls.
- Slice Mini Sandwiches: Carefully slice the entire block of rolls into individual mini sandwiches along the natural perforations for easy grilling and serving.
- Preheat Skillet: Preheat a large non-stick skillet or electric griddle over medium-low heat for 3-5 minutes to ensure even toasting.
- Grill Sandwiches: Arrange the mini sandwiches in a single layer on the preheated skillet without overcrowding to allow proper browning.
- 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.
- Additional Melt: If cheese needs further melting, cover the pan on very low heat for 1-2 minutes, then uncover immediately to avoid steaming.
- 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