If you’re on the hunt for a snack that’s bursting with sweet, savory, and melty goodness, you simply must try this Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls with Pineapple and Ham Recipe. These delightful little sandwiches are packed with sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, juicy ham, and a hint of pineapple sweetness that perfectly complements the softness of the Hawaiian rolls. They’re unbelievably easy to make, perfect for feeding a crowd, and guaranteed to become an instant favorite at your next gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun of making this dish! Each component is chosen to create a balanced bite—soft and sweet rolls, creamy cheeses with sharp character, juicy ham, and that irresistible pineapple zing come together in harmony.
- Hawaiian Sweet Rolls: These provide a soft, slightly sweet base that perfectly contrasts the savory filling.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Adds a bold, tangy flavor that melts beautifully.
- Monterey Jack Cheese: Adds creaminess and a mild, buttery taste to soften the sharpness of cheddar.
- Cooked Ham, finely diced: Brings a salty, smoky meatiness that’s foundational to this recipe.
- Crushed Pineapple, well-drained: The sweet, juicy burst cuts through the richness of cheese and ham.
- Unsalted Butter, softened: Helps create that golden, crispy exterior when grilled.
- Mayonnaise: Optional, but great for a little extra moisture and tang on the rolls.
- Optional Add-Ins (Red Onion, Jalapeño, Garlic Powder): These give you opportunity to tailor the flavor profile with brightness, heat, and depth.
How to Make Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls with Pineapple and Ham Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Rolls
Start by slicing the entire slab of Hawaiian sweet rolls horizontally in half, but keep the halves connected like a book. This trick helps keep all the mini sandwiches together for easy assembly and even grilling.
Step 2: Butter (or Mayo) Up
Spread a thin, even layer of softened unsalted butter or mayonnaise on the cut sides of both the top and bottom halves of the rolls. This not only adds flavor but ensures that golden, crispy texture when you grill the sandwiches.
Step 3: Make the Flavorful Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the grated sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, well-drained crushed pineapple, and finely diced ham. If you love a little extra kick or bite, stir in thinly sliced red onion, minced jalapeño, or a pinch of garlic powder—they all elevate the flavor beautifully.
Step 4: Assemble the Bottom Layer
Place the bottom half of the rolls on a clean surface, buttered side up, then spread your cheese, pineapple, and ham mixture evenly across it. This helps each mini sandwich get a generous, flavorful filling in every bite.
Step 5: Top It Off
Carefully place the top half of the rolls over the filling, buttered side down, and give it a gentle press. This seals the deal and prepares the entire slab to be sliced into perfect little portions.
Step 6: Slice into Minis
Using a sharp knife, slice the slab into individual mini sandwiches along the roll lines. This step is key for making these bite-sized treats easy to handle and serve.
Step 7: Grill Time!
Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Cooking slowly at this temperature ensures the cheese inside melts thoroughly without burning the bread outside.
Step 8: Cook in Batches
Place a few mini grilled cheese Hawaiian rolls into the hot pan. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes per side or until the bread is golden brown and the cheeses have melted to ooey-gooey perfection.
Step 9: Serve Immediately
Once cooked, transfer the mini sandwiches to a serving platter so they can be enjoyed warm and melty. Repeat this process until every single roll is grilled and ready to impress.
How to Serve Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls with Pineapple and Ham Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can really add charm to your presentation. Try a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a few sprigs of thyme for a pop of green, or add a light dusting of smoked paprika on top for eye-catching color and a hint of smoky aroma.
Side Dishes
These mini grilled cheese sandwiches pair wonderfully with fresh, crisp sides. Think crunchy coleslaw to add freshness or a zesty pickled cucumber salad to contrast the richness. For something warm, creamy tomato soup is a classic and comforting companion.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these little gems on a large wooden board with abundant napkins alongside colorful dipping sauces like spicy mustard, honey mustard, or a tangy BBQ sauce. You can also skewer a few minis together for a fun party platter or stack them for a towering sandwich centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls with Pineapple and Ham Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them from getting soggy, place parchment paper between layers.
Freezing
You can freeze these mini sandwiches before grilling. Wrap the assembled, sliced rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling as usual.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your mini grilled cheeses and keep their crispiness is in a skillet over medium-low heat for a few minutes per side. Avoid microwaving, which can make the bread chewy and the cheese unevenly warmed.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack provide a perfect balance of flavors, feel free to experiment with gouda, mozzarella, or even pepper jack to customize the taste.
Do I have to use pineapple?
The pineapple adds a unique sweetness that contrasts the savory ham beautifully, but you can leave it out if you prefer a more traditional grilled cheese or replace it with slices of apple for a different fruity twist.
What if I don’t have Hawaiian rolls?
While Hawaiian rolls are ideal due to their sweetness and softness, you can substitute with slider buns or any soft dinner rolls you have on hand. Just keep in mind the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Can I prepare these vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ham and load up the filling with extra cheese and pineapple, or add sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a delicious vegetarian version.
What’s the best way to melt the cheese evenly?
Cooking over medium-low heat allows the cheese to melt thoroughly without burning the bread. Patience is key here—rushing with high heat might crisp the bread too fast but leave the cheese unmelted.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you make this Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls with Pineapple and Ham Recipe, it will quickly become your go-to party finger food or cozy snack. The combination of sweet rolls, melty cheeses, savory ham, and pineapple is just pure magic in every bite. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and prepare for a delicious experience that everyone will be asking you to make again and again!
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Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls with Pineapple and Ham Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls are a delightful and crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack featuring sweet Hawaiian rolls filled with a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, savory ham, and well-drained crushed pineapple. These bite-sized sandwiches are pan-grilled to golden perfection, melting the cheese and combining sweet, savory, and tangy flavors for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup cooked ham, finely diced
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, well-drained
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
Optional Ingredients
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup minced jalapeño
- A pinch of garlic powder
Instructions
- Prepare Your Rolls: Slice the entire slab of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, ensuring they remain connected to hold the filling in place during cooking.
- Butter (or Mayo) Up: Spread a thin, even layer of softened unsalted butter or mayonnaise on the cut side of both the top and bottom halves of the rolls to add flavor and promote browning.
- The Flavorful Filling: In a medium bowl, mix together the grated cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, well-drained crushed pineapple, and finely diced cooked ham. If desired, stir in optional ingredients such as red onion, jalapeño, or garlic powder to enhance the flavor.
- Assemble the Bottom Layer: Place the bottom half of the rolls, buttered side up, on a clean surface and evenly spread the cheese and pineapple mixture over the surface.
- Top it Off: Carefully place the top half of the rolls over the filling, buttered side down, and gently press to secure the ingredients.
- Slice into Minis: Using a sharp knife, slice the entire slab into individual mini sandwiches for easy serving and cooking.
- Grill Time!: Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat to ensure the rolls brown evenly without burning.
- Cook in Batches: Place a few mini sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and the cheese inside has melted completely.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer the cooked mini grilled cheese Hawaiian rolls to a serving platter and repeat the cooking process with the remaining sandwiches. Serve hot for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Make sure the crushed pineapple is well-drained to prevent soggy sandwiches.
- Use medium-low heat while grilling to ensure golden browning and melted cheese without burning.
- Optional add-ins like jalapeños add a spicy kick; adjust to taste.
- For extra flavor, try using a mixture of butter and mayonnaise when spreading on the rolls.
- These mini sandwiches are best served immediately while warm and gooey.
