Cheesy Hawaiian Garlic Rolls

Cheesy Hawaiian Garlic Rolls make every dinner feel a little more special with minimal effort. If you have ever wished for a fast way to upgrade fluffy Hawaiian rolls into the ultimate cheesy garlic bread experience this recipe is what you need. My family falls silent when I pull these out of the oven and that is always a sign of a truly great recipe.

I started making these as a quick side on pizza nights and now anytime friends come over they request them by name. It is practically zero effort with big payback every time.

Ingredients

• Kings Hawaiian Savory Butter Rolls: These rolls are pillowy and slightly sweet which is perfect for balancing the garlic and cheese
• Mozzarella string cheese: Melts perfectly and adds just enough gooeyness I prefer part skim for best stretch
• Butter: Melt the real thing for that rich flavor and always look for pale yellow color for freshness
• Minced garlic: Fresh or jarred works but real garlic will give the best punch and aroma
• Dried parsley: Adds a pop of color and subtle freshness Go for vivid green flakes that smell aromatic
• Parmesan cheese: Extra sharpness and saltiness Shred it yourself from a block if you can find it
• Shredded mozzarella: Gives you a bubbly browned top layer Buy a block and shred for best melt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prep the Rolls:

Set your oven to 400 degrees F and lightly spray your baking dish so nothing sticks. Place the whole package of rolls straight into the dish right in the package shape.

Fill the Rolls with Cheese:

Cut two deep slits in the top of each roll but do not slice all the way through. Take mozzarella string cheese sticks and cut each into four pieces. Slide a piece into each slit so every bun gets cheesy pockets inside.

Mix and Brush the Garlic Butter:

In a small bowl mix your melted butter with minced garlic dried parsley and parmesan cheese. Make sure garlic is evenly distributed so every bite gets flavor. Brush this mixture generously over each roll top and into the cracks.

Top with Mozzarella and Bake:

Scatter shredded mozzarella over the tops of the buttered rolls. Slide the dish into the hot oven and bake about 10 to 12 minutes. Look for the cheese to bubble up and just start to turn golden brown.

Serve:

Let the rolls cool a couple of minutes before transferring to a plate. Serve warm so the cheese stays gooey. These do not last long on the table.

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My favorite part is always the cheese stretching out when we pull a roll apart The first time my niece saw the cheesy center she said it was like magic and now she asks for these every holiday

Storage Tips

Cool any leftovers completely and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day or in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat wrap loosely in foil and warm in the oven at 325 degrees until heated through. Microwave reheating is possible but the bread may lose some texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any soft dinner roll if you do not have Hawaiian rolls My favorite swap is a brioche roll for added richness. For the cheese try pepper jack or sharp cheddar for a twist. Vegan butter and dairy-free cheese work well if you need this dish to be dairy-free.

Serving Suggestions

These pair so well with pasta dishes chili soups or alongside roasted chicken. Sometimes I serve them with a simple tomato sauce for dipping which always gets rave reviews. They are also a hit as a party appetizer especially if you double the recipe.

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Cultural Context

Hawaiian rolls were invented in the 1950s by a Portuguese immigrant family in Hawaii and have become a beloved American staple Their slightly sweet flavor contrasts beautifully with garlic and cheese pulling inspiration from classic garlic bread but with a modern twist using soft enriched bread.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of roll?

Yes, any soft dinner roll can be substituted, though King's Hawaiian adds a signature sweetness.

→ What cheese alternatives work well?

Provolone, cheddar, or Monterey Jack are good replacements if you prefer something different from mozzarella.

→ How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Be careful not to cut all the way through the rolls when making slits to help contain the cheese as it melts.

→ Can I prepare these in advance?

You can assemble the rolls ahead of time and bake right before serving for best texture and flavor.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Place cooled rolls in an airtight container and refrigerate; reheat in a low oven to melt the cheese again.