Sweet Savory Mini Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Buttery golden Hawaiian rolls stuffed with melted cheddar and honey mustard for a sweet-savory bite.

# What You Need:

→ Bread & Dairy

01 - 12 mini Hawaiian sweet rolls, split horizontally
02 - 6 slices cheddar cheese, cut in half
03 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

→ Meats

04 - 6 slices deli ham, halved (optional)

→ Condiments

05 - 2 tablespoons honey mustard
06 - 1 tablespoon mayonnaise

→ Optional Toppings

07 - 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
08 - 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh chives

# How to Make It:

01 - Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat until evenly hot.
02 - Whisk together honey mustard and mayonnaise in a small bowl until smooth and well combined.
03 - Open each Hawaiian roll and spread a thin layer of honey mustard mixture on cut sides of both halves. Place half a cheddar slice on each bottom bun, add ham half if desired, and close with top bun.
04 - Spread softened butter generously over the outside tops and bottoms of each assembled roll.
05 - Arrange mini sandwiches in the preheated skillet, pressing gently with spatula. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese is completely melted.
06 - Sprinkle with poppy seeds and fresh chives immediately after removing from heat, if using.
07 - Transfer to a serving platter and serve warm while cheese is still melted.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The natural sweetness of Hawaiian rolls makes regular grilled cheese feel like something special
  • These cook in about 10 minutes flat, perfect for emergency weeknight appetizers
02 -
  • Medium heat is actually better than high here since the sugar in Hawaiian rolls burns quickly
  • Letting the butter soften completely prevents those frustrating moments when your bread tears while spreading
03 -
  • Sprinkle poppy seeds or everything bagel seasoning right after grilling while the butter is still melty
  • These reheat surprisingly well in a 350 degree oven for about 5 minutes if you somehow have leftovers