Hawaiian Rolls Grilled Bites: Easy 10-Minute Sweet & Savory Perfection

Hawaiian rolls grilled bites are a revelation, a tiny package of warmth and flavor that feels like a hug from your kitchen. There’s something truly magical about transforming simple, sweet Hawaiian rolls into something utterly irresistible with just a little heat and a few clever additions. My personal journey with these delightful Hawaiian rolls grilled bites began on a cool autumn evening, seeking a quick yet comforting appetizer. The goal was something easy, something shareable, and something that brought a smile with every bite. The result? These perfect savory sweet morsels that have since become a family favorite, a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary memories. Get ready to fall in love with these effortlessly delicious grilled treats.

Why You Will Love This Hawaiian rolls grilled bites Recipe

Hawaiian Rolls Grilled Bites: Easy 10-Minute Sweet & Savory Perfection

Hawaiian Rolls Grilled Bites: Easy 10-Minute Sweet & Savory Perfection

These Hawaiian rolls grilled bites are a quick and easy appetizer featuring sweet Hawaiian rolls filled with ham and cheese, brushed with savory garlic butter, and grilled until golden and gooey. Perfect for parties or a comforting snack.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 12 bites
Category: Appetizer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition:

Calories: 280
Protein: 12g
Carbs: 24g
Fat: 16g

Ingredients

  • 12 King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
  • 6 slices thinly sliced deli ham, high quality
  • 6 slices mild cheddar cheese, thinly sliced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
  • Pinch of black pepper, freshly ground

Instructions

  1. Carefully slice each King’s Hawaiian Sweet Roll in half horizontally, creating a top and a bottom bun for each.
  2. Cut each slice of ham into quarters and each slice of cheddar cheese into quarters.
  3. Place one quarter of ham and one quarter of cheese onto the bottom half of each roll. Gently place the top half of the roll back on, forming a small sandwich.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, garlic powder, dried parsley flakes, and a pinch of black pepper until well combined.
  5. Using a pastry brush, generously brush all sides of each assembled Hawaiian roll bite with the savory butter mixture.
  6. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the brushed Hawaiian rolls onto the skillet.
  7. Grill for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese inside is delightfully melted and gooey.
  8. Remove the grilled bites from the skillet and serve immediately.

Notes

  • For best results, use fresh Hawaiian rolls and thin slices of ham and cheese. Do not overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed. These bites are wonderful served with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard or BBQ.

You are going to absolutely adore this Hawaiian rolls grilled bites recipe for so many reasons. First, it is comfort food at its finest, offering that perfect balance of savory and sweet in every tender, golden bite. It is incredibly quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for last minute gatherings, unexpected guests, or simply a delightful snack when hunger strikes. The flavor profile is outstanding, with the slightly sweet bread perfectly complementing the salty ham and creamy melted cheese, all enhanced by a savory buttery garlic herb crust. This recipe is also wonderfully easy to follow, requiring minimal cooking skill and common ingredients you likely already have on hand. It is truly special because it elevates a humble pantry staple into an impressive and unforgettable appetizer or side dish.

Hawaiian rolls grilled bites - Detail or variation
Close-up detail

Ingredients Needed for This Hawaiian rolls grilled bites Recipe

Gathering your ingredients for these delightful Hawaiian rolls grilled bites is straightforward. Each component plays a vital role in creating that irresistible flavor and texture.

  • 12 King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
  • 6 slices thinly sliced deli ham, high quality
  • 6 slices mild cheddar cheese, thinly sliced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
  • Pinch of black pepper, freshly ground
  • Optional: For serving, your favorite dipping sauce like honey mustard or a tangy BBQ sauce

How to Make This Hawaiian rolls grilled bites Recipe

Hawaiian rolls grilled bites - Process or ingredients
Preparation process

Creating these perfect Hawaiian rolls grilled bites is a fun and simple process that yields truly delicious results. Follow these steps for an amazing outcome.

  1. 1. Carefully slice each King’s Hawaiian Sweet Roll in half horizontally, creating a top and a bottom bun for each. Take care not to tear the delicate bread.
  2. 2. Cut each slice of ham into quarters and each slice of cheddar cheese into quarters. This ensures they fit perfectly inside the rolls.
  3. 3. Place one quarter of ham and one quarter of cheese onto the bottom half of each roll. Gently place the top half of the roll back on, forming a small sandwich.
  4. 4. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, garlic powder, dried parsley flakes, and a pinch of black pepper until well combined.
  5. 5. Using a pastry brush, generously brush all sides of each assembled Hawaiian roll bite with the savory butter mixture. Ensure even coating for maximum flavor.
  6. 6. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the brushed Hawaiian rolls onto the skillet.
  7. 7. Grill for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese inside is delightfully melted and gooey. Monitor closely to prevent burning.
  8. 8. Remove the grilled bites from the skillet and serve immediately. They are best enjoyed warm.

How to Serve This Hawaiian rolls grilled bites Recipe

These Hawaiian rolls grilled bites are incredibly versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. For a casual appetizer, arrange them attractively on a platter and provide small bowls of dipping sauces like a zesty honey mustard, a smoky BBQ sauce, or even a creamy ranch dressing. They also make an excellent accompaniment to a light soup or a fresh green salad for a simple lunch. Consider them a fun addition to a breakfast or brunch spread, perhaps alongside scrambled eggs or fresh fruit. For plating, you might skewer a few bites on small decorative picks, especially if serving at a party, making them even easier to pick up. Their golden exterior and cheesy interior make for a truly appealing presentation. Discover more appetizer ideas over on our appetizers page!

How to Store This Hawaiian rolls grilled bites Recipe

Properly storing your Hawaiian rolls grilled bites ensures you can enjoy their deliciousness for longer. If you have any leftovers, allow them to cool completely to room temperature first. Place the cooled bites in an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. While you can freeze them, the texture of the bread and melted cheese may change upon thawing, becoming a bit chewier. If freezing, arrange cooled bites in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze for an hour, then transfer to a freezer safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. To reheat, microwave for 30 to 60 seconds or place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melted again.

Tips to Make This Hawaiian rolls grilled bites Recipe

Achieving perfection with your Hawaiian rolls grilled bites is easy with a few helpful tips. For ingredient swaps, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Swiss or provolone, or try different deli meats such as turkey or even pepperoni for a pizza inspired twist. A key success tip is to not overcrowd your skillet when grilling; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning. A common mistake to avoid is using too high heat, which can burn the outside before the cheese inside has a chance to fully melt. Keep the heat at medium and watch them closely. A pro tip for best results is to gently press down on the rolls with a spatula for a few seconds while grilling; this helps flatten them slightly and creates more surface area for that delicious crispy crust. For an extra layer of flavor, try sprinkling a little grated Parmesan cheese onto the buttery side before grilling. You might also enjoy our recipe for savory baked sliders for another crowd pleasing dish.

Helpful Notes for This Hawaiian rolls grilled bites Recipe

Here are a few extra clarifications and details to ensure your Hawaiian rolls grilled bites turn out perfectly every time. When selecting your King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls, ensure they are fresh for the best texture. For the ham and cheese, thinly sliced varieties melt more quickly and distribute flavor more evenly within the small bites. If you dont have a pastry brush, you can gently toss the assembled rolls in a bowl with the melted butter mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. While a skillet or griddle works wonderfully, you can also use a panini press for even quicker results and beautiful grill marks. Just be sure to reduce the grilling time. This recipe is highly adaptable, so feel free to adjust the amount of garlic powder or add other herbs like dried oregano or basil to the butter mixture based on your personal taste.

Variation of This Hawaiian rolls grilled bites Recipe

Unlock even more delicious possibilities with variations of these delightful Hawaiian rolls grilled bites. For a seasonal twist, consider adding a thin slice of apple or pear with the ham and cheese in the autumn months. A fantastic optional version involves a sweet and savory glaze: instead of the garlic butter, brush the rolls with a mixture of melted butter, a touch of brown sugar, and a dash of Dijon mustard before grilling. For a creative modification, try making them vegetarian by filling them with a slice of grilled halloumi cheese and a roasted red pepper strip. Another popular variation is a pizza style bite, using pepperoni, mozzarella, and a tiny dab of marinara sauce inside. These grilled Hawaiian bites are truly a canvas for your culinary imagination!

FAQs About This Hawaiian rolls grilled bites Recipe

How do you make Hawaiian rolls grilled bites?

Hawaiian rolls grilled bites are made by slicing sweet Hawaiian rolls, filling them with sweet or savory ingredients, and then grilling them briefly until warm and golden. This usually takes just 10 minutes, making them a quick and easy snack or appetizer.

What are the best fillings for Hawaiian rolls grilled bites?

For savory bites, try ham and cheese, pulled pork, or buffalo chicken. Sweet options include cream cheese with fruit jam, Nutella, or even cinnamon sugar. Experiment with various combinations to find your favorite.

Can Hawaiian rolls grilled bites be made ahead of time?

While best served fresh off the grill, you can assemble the bites ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. Reheat them gently on a grill or in an oven for a few minutes before serving.

Are Hawaiian rolls grilled bites good for a party?

Absolutely! Their small size, sweet and savory appeal, and quick preparation make Hawaiian rolls grilled bites perfect for parties, game nights, or any gathering. They are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and easy to eat.

Conclusion

These Hawaiian rolls grilled bites are more than just a recipe; they are an invitation to create joy and flavor in your kitchen with minimal effort. From their comforting warmth to their irresistible savory sweet taste, they are sure to become a cherished addition to your recipe repertoire. We genuinely hope you try this delightful dish and experience its simple magic. Please feel free to share your thoughts, questions, or your own creative twists in the comments below. Happy grilling, and enjoy every single bite!

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