Transform ordinary dinner rolls into irresistible cheesy Hawaiian garlic rolls – a perfect blend of sweet, savory and garlicky goodness!
Quick Answer: Make cheesy Hawaiian garlic rolls by brushing Hawaiian sweet rolls with garlic butter, stuffing with mozzarella cheese, and baking at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and melty. The entire process takes about 45 minutes from start to finish.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Category: Side Dish/Bread
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Fusion
Yield: 12 rolls (4 servings)
Dietary: Vegetarian
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect combination of sweet Hawaiian bread, gooey cheese, and savory garlic butter
- Ready in under an hour with minimal prep work
- Great for parties, potlucks, or as a side dish
- Budget-friendly using store-bought rolls
- Freezer-friendly for make-ahead convenience

Quick Benefits
These cheesy Hawaiian garlic rolls offer the perfect blend of convenience and indulgence. The sweet bread pairs beautifully with melted cheese and garlic butter, creating an irresistible appetizer or side dish that’s ready in minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 package of King’s Hawaiian Savory Butter Rolls (12 rolls)
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- Mozzarella string cheese, 1 stick per two rolls
- 1 stick of butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon of minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon of dried parsley
- 3 tablespoons of shredded parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Set the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).
- Place a package of rolls into a greased baking dish. Cut two slits into the top of each roll, ensuring not to cut through the bottom.
- Cut mozzarella string cheese sticks into four pieces. Place one piece of cheese into each slit of the rolls.
- Combine melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, and parmesan cheese in a bowl. Mix well.
- Use a brush to coat the rolls with the butter mixture. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the rolls.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned on top.
You Must Know
- Don’t separate rolls before slicing – keep them connected
- Watch carefully during final baking to prevent burning
- Let rest before serving to avoid cheese burns
- Use a serrated knife for clean cuts
- Check cheese is fully melted before removing from oven
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with marinara sauce for dipping
- Pair with Italian-style soups or salads
- Great alongside pasta dishes
- Perfect game day appetizer
- Serve at holiday gatherings
Creative Variations
- Add pepperoni slices for pizza-style rolls
- Use different cheese combinations like cheddar and provolone
- Add Italian seasoning to the garlic butter
- Include caramelized onions for extra flavor
Cultural Notes
This recipe combines the beloved Hawaiian sweet roll, created by Robert Taira in Hilo, Hawaii during the 1950s, with Italian-inspired garlic bread elements. The fusion represents the melting pot of American cuisine, bringing together different cultural food traditions.
Pro Tips
- Use room temperature butter for easier mixing
- Fresh garlic provides better flavor than pre-minced
- Slice rolls while cold for cleaner cuts
- Pat mozzarella dry if using fresh to prevent soggy rolls
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these cheesy Hawaiian garlic rolls ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate before baking.
Q: What’s the best cheese to use?
A: Mozzarella works best for its melting properties, but any good melting cheese will work.
Q: Can I freeze these rolls?
A: Yes, freeze unbaked rolls for up to 1 month. Thaw before baking.
Q: How do I prevent the tops from burning?
A: Keep covered with foil for most of the baking time.
Q: Can I use regular dinner rolls instead of Hawaiian rolls?
A: Yes, though you’ll miss the signature sweet flavor.
Health Benefits
While cheesy Hawaiian garlic rolls are an indulgent treat, they can be part of a balanced diet. The garlic provides immune-boosting compounds, while the cheese offers calcium and protein. Moderation is key with this comfort food favorite.
Nutrition
(Per serving) Calories: 320 • Carbs: 28g • Protein: 12g • Fat: 18g • Sodium: 480mg
Notes
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain texture.
Cheesy hawaiian garlic rolls
Transform ordinary dinner rolls into irresistible cheesy Hawaiian garlic rolls - a perfect blend of sweet, savory and garlicky goodness!
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
- Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain texture.
