Who doesn’t love the irresistible combination of sweet, pillowy King’s Hawaiian rolls and gooey melted cheese? These grilled cheese sliders take comfort food to the next level, blending sweet and savory in every bite. They’re perfect for quick lunches, game-day snacks, or even party appetizers that’ll have everyone coming back for more.
King’s Hawaiian Grilled Cheese Sliders Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pack (12 rolls) of King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls, sliced in half horizontally
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 oz (about 1 cup) of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 tbsp of unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp of garlic powder
- 1 tsp of dried parsley
- 1 tbsp of mayonnaise (optional for creamy texture)
Equipment Needed
- A large baking sheet
- Parchment paper or foil
- A small bowl for mixing
- Silicone basting brush
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Slice the King’s Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally as a single slab, keeping the top and bottom portions intact.
Step 2: Blend the Butter Mixture
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Stir until well mixed.
- Set aside this fragrant butter mixture. We’ll use it to brush over the rolls later.
Step 3: Layer the Cheese Filling
- Place the bottom half of the sliced rolls onto the lined baking sheet.
- Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise (if desired) across the bread base to add creaminess.
- Evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese followed by mozzarella cheese over the bottom layer.
Step 4: Add the Top Layer
- Gently position the top half of the rolls over the cheese layer, ensuring alignment.
Step 5: Brush and Bake
- Generously brush the prepared butter mixture over the tops of the rolls using the silicone basting brush.
- Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the tops of the rolls are golden brown.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the sliders from the oven and allow them to cool for 2-3 minutes.
- Slice them into individual portions along the roll lines and serve immediately.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 15 minutes | 25 minutes |
Ingredients
To make these irresistible King’s Hawaiian Grilled Cheese Sliders, we need a simple combination of sweet Hawaiian rolls, a cheesy filling, and a flavorful buttery spread. Here’s everything we’ll gather:
For The Sliders
- 1 pack (12 rolls) of King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional for garnish)
- Salt (a pinch, to enhance flavors)
- Optional: 1-2 tablespoons mayonnaise for an extra creamy texture
Optional Toppings
Elevate the flavor profile of your sliders with these optional toppings:
- Cooked bacon crumbles for a savory crunch
- Caramelized onions for a sweet and rich depth
- Sliced jalapeños for heat and spice
- Fresh tomato slices for a juicy, tangy layer
Tools And Equipment
To create these irresistible King’s Hawaiian Grilled Cheese Sliders, we’ll need a few essential tools and equipment. These items ensure smooth preparation and cooking, so everything comes together perfectly. Here’s what to have on hand:
Essential Tools
- Serrated Knife: For easily slicing the King’s Hawaiian rolls without crushing their fluffy texture.
- Mixing Bowl: To blend the melted butter and seasonings into a smooth, flavorful mixture.
- Pastry Brush: Perfect for evenly spreading the buttery garlic mixture over the rolls.
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish or Rimmed Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking dish or sheet to hold the sliders while baking. The rim prevents spillage of melted butter and cheese.
- Aluminum Foil: To cover the sliders during the initial baking phase to trap moisture and ensure the cheese melts evenly.
- Spatula: Essential for serving the sliders neatly without tearing them apart.
Optional Tools for Customization
If you’re adding optional toppings like bacon, jalapeños, or caramelized onions, consider these additional tools:
- Skillet or Frying Pan: To cook bacon or caramelize onions to perfection.
- Sharp Knife or Mandoline: For thinly slicing jalapeños or tomatoes evenly.
Quick Reference Table
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Serrated Knife | Slicing the rolls cleanly without crushing them. |
| Mixing Bowl | Combining butter and seasonings smoothly. |
| Pastry Brush | Spreading butter mixture evenly on rolls. |
| Baking Dish/Baking Sheet | Holding and baking the assembled sliders. |
| Aluminum Foil | Covering rolls for steam-filled even baking. |
| Spatula | Serving sliders cleanly and easily. |
| Skillet/Frying Pan | Cooking optional toppings like bacon or onions. |
| Sharp Knife/Mandoline | Thinly slicing additional toppings or garnishes. |
Directions
Let’s dive into creating these irresistible King’s Hawaiian Grilled Cheese Sliders. Follow these simple steps for a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Prep The Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures even cooking and perfect crispiness.
- Using a serrated knife, carefully slice the 12 King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls horizontally as a connected sheet—do not separate the rolls. Set the top aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine:
- 4 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
Stir until fully mixed. This buttery blend is key for adding bold flavor.
Assemble The Sliders
- Place the bottom sheet of rolls into your prepared baking dish.
- Spread 2 cups shredded cheese (a mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella) evenly across the bottom layer. For an extra creamy kick, add a thin layer of optional mayonnaise before the cheese.
- If desired, sprinkle on toppings like crispy bacon crumbles or caramelized onions for added depth of flavor.
- Carefully place the top layer of rolls over the cheese and toppings.
- Using a pastry brush, generously coat the tops with the prepared garlic butter mixture.
Cook The Sliders
- Cover the assembled sliders lightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, allowing the cheese to start melting.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted. The uncovered baking time creates a delightful crispy texture on top.
- Let the sliders cool for at least 3 minutes before slicing to prevent the cheese from oozing out excessively.
Serve And Enjoy
- Use a spatula to separate and serve the sliders from the dish.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or a side of your favorite dipping sauces such as marinara or ranch for extra flavor.
- Plate the sliders while hot and watch as the gooey, cheesy goodness pulls apart. These sliders are best enjoyed warm, straight out of the oven.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Serrated Knife | Slicing the rolls evenly |
| Mixing Bowl | Combining the butter and seasonings |
| Pastry Brush | Spreading the buttery mixture |
| Baking Dish | Holding the sliders while baking |
| Aluminum Foil | Covering the dish for even cooking |
| Spatula | Serving and separating the sliders |
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing King’s Hawaiian Grilled Cheese Sliders ahead of time is a breeze, making them perfect for parties, busy weeknights, or game-day events. These steps will ensure you have the sliders prepped and ready without compromising their fresh, melty savoriness.
Preparing Ahead:
- Assemble the Sliders:
- Slice the King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls in half horizontally, keeping them connected as a sheet.
- Spread your butter mixture (melted butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley) on the inside of the rolls.
- Layer the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly across the bottom half of the rolls. Add any optional toppings like bacon crumbles or caramelized onions.
- Place the top half of the rolls back on to form the sliders.
- Store in the Refrigerator:
- Transfer the assembled sliders to a baking dish or airtight container.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent the bread from drying out.
- Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Prepare the Butter Coating:
- Mix an extra batch of the garlicky butter mixture and store it separately in a small covered bowl in the refrigerator. Reheat it slightly in the microwave to loosen before using.
Baking the Next Day:
When ready to serve, follow these simple steps to bake your pre-assembled sliders:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Preheat Oven | Set the oven to 350°F approximately 10 minutes before baking. |
| Butter the Sliders | Remove sliders from the refrigerator. Brush the tops generously with the butter mixture. |
| Bake Covered | Cover the sliders with foil and bake for 10 minutes to let the cheese melt. |
| Bake Uncovered | Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until golden brown. |
Pro Tip: For an extra-crispy top, broil the sliders for the last 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Additional Notes:
- These sliders are best served warm, straight from the oven. If you must reheat them, wrap them in aluminum foil and place them in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes.
- Avoid assembling too far in advance, as the bread may absorb moisture from the fillings, impacting texture.
Tips For Perfect Grilled Cheese Sliders
Making grilled cheese sliders on King’s Hawaiian rolls is simple when you follow a few key tips to ensure they’re perfectly toasty, cheesy, and satisfying every time. Let’s dive into how to achieve the best results.
1. Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients
The foundation of great sliders starts with the ingredients. Always opt for:
- King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls: Their soft, slightly sweet profile pairs perfectly with savory cheeses.
- High-quality cheeses: Use freshly shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella for optimal meltability and flavor.
- Real butter: Unsalted butter provides the best richness for the topping mixture.
2. Don’t Skip the Butter Mixture
The butter mixture brings a golden, crispy texture and adds flavor to the sliders. For the ideal mix:
- Always melt the butter completely and combine it thoroughly with seasonings like garlic powder and dried parsley for even distribution.
- Use a pastry brush to coat all the tops thoroughly—uneven application can lead to uneven browning.
3. Bake at the Right Temperature and Timing
To ensure a perfectly melty center and golden crust:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F before assembly to guarantee even baking.
- Cover the sliders with foil for the first 10 minutes to trap steam and melt the cheese evenly.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes uncovered until the tops are golden and crisp.
4. Don’t Overload the Sliders
While optional toppings like bacon crumbles or caramelized onions enhance flavor, avoid overloading the sliders, as it can make them messy and difficult to handle. Keep it simple with a balance of flavors for the best results.
5. Use Proper Tools for Slicing and Assembling
Working with connected rolls requires precision. Use:
- A serrated knife to slice the rolls horizontally in an even layer without tearing.
- A baking dish with sides to contain the sandwiches as they bake and keep everything in place.
Here’s a quick guide for essential tools:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Serrated knife | Slicing rolls evenly |
| Mixing bowl | Blending butter mixture and seasonings |
| Pastry brush | Spreading butter mixture onto slider tops |
| Baking dish/sheet | Baking and containing sliders during cooking |
| Aluminum foil | Ensuring even melting by covering sliders |
6. Serve Immediately for Maximum Enjoyment
The hallmark of great grilled cheese sliders is their warm and gooey cheese. Serve them as soon as they’re out of the oven to enjoy their melty perfection. If needed, use a spatula to transfer sliders cleanly to a serving platter.
Conclusion
King’s Hawaiian Grilled Cheese Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining sweet rolls with gooey, melted cheese and customizable toppings. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick comfort food fix, these sliders deliver on flavor and simplicity.
By following a few key tips and using fresh, quality ingredients, we can ensure every batch turns out perfectly golden and irresistibly delicious. Let’s grab those King’s Hawaiian rolls and get baking—your taste buds will thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are required to make grilled cheese sliders?
To make grilled cheese sliders, you’ll need King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls, shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese, unsalted butter, garlic powder, dried parsley, and optional toppings like cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or sliced jalapeños.
How long does it take to prepare and cook these sliders?
The entire process takes approximately 25 minutes, including preparation and baking time.
Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can customize the cheese to your preference. While cheddar and mozzarella are recommended, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese combinations.
Can I prepare the sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the sliders in advance, store them in the refrigerator, and prepare the butter mixture beforehand. Bake them when ready to serve.
What tools are required for making this recipe?
You’ll need a serrated knife, mixing bowl, pastry brush, baking dish or sheet, aluminum foil, and a spatula for serving.
What is the baking temperature and time for these sliders?
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the sliders covered with foil for 10 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
Can I make the sliders extra crispy?
To make the sliders extra crispy, prepare the butter mixture well and evenly coat the slider tops. Bake uncovered for slightly longer, keeping an eye on the browning.
Are there any suggested dipping sauces for the sliders?
Yes, these sliders pair well with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or honey mustard for an extra flavorful experience.
What are some optional toppings to enhance the flavor?
Optional toppings include crispy bacon crumbles, caramelized onions, fresh tomato slices, or sliced jalapeños for added flavor and texture.
How should I serve the sliders for the best taste?
Serve the sliders immediately after baking to enjoy them warm with gooey melted cheese. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or your favorite dipping sauce for an elevated experience.