Keep the rolls connected as a slab. Using a serrated knife, cut vertical slices and then horizontal slices
to create a grid—without cutting all the way through the bottom.
Gently open the cuts and tuck shredded mozzarella (and cheddar if using) into the slots.
Sprinkle Parmesan over the top and into the crevices.
In a bowl, mix melted butter with garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (optional).
Slowly spoon or brush the garlic butter over the rolls, letting it drip into the cuts.
(Take your time—this is where the flavor comes from.)
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 12–15 minutes until cheese is melted.
Uncover and bake another 5–8 minutes until the top is golden and lightly crisp.
Let rest 3–5 minutes, then pull apart and serve immediately.
Serving and Storage:
Serve cheesy Hawaiian roll garlic bread hot and fresh for the best pull-apart cheese stretch.
It’s perfect alongside spaghetti, lasagna, creamy soups, chili, or a big salad.
Storage: Wrap leftovers tightly and refrigerate up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, or air fry at 330°F (165°C)
for a few minutes until warm and melty.
Freezing: Freeze baked bread (wrapped well) up to 1 month.
Reheat from frozen, covered with foil, until hot.
Tips:
- Don’t cut through the bottom: Keeping the base intact helps the bread stay pull-apart.
- Use a mix of cheeses: Mozzarella melts best; cheddar + Parmesan add flavor.
- Cover first: Foil helps melt cheese without burning the top.
- Garlic control: For a milder flavor, use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic.
- Extra crispy top: Broil 1 minute at the end (watch closely).
Variations:
- Pizza Garlic Bread: Add pepperoni and a spoonful of marinara for dipping.
- Bacon Ranch: Add bacon bits and a sprinkle of ranch seasoning into the butter.
- Herb & Parmesan: Skip mozzarella and make it a garlic-parmesan herb bread.
- Jalapeño Popper: Add diced jalapeños and cream cheese bits for heat + creaminess.
- Everything Bagel: Sprinkle everything seasoning on top before baking.
Tips:
- Make-ahead: Assemble (without butter) up to 6 hours ahead, then butter and bake before serving.
- Party hack: Double the recipe—this disappears fast.
- Even butter coverage: Spoon slowly so it drips into every cut.
- Perfect pairing: Serve with marinara, garlic aioli, or ranch for dipping.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread is the ultimate pull-apart side dish: buttery, garlicky, and packed with melty cheese,
with a subtle sweetness that makes it extra craveable. It’s easy enough for weeknights, impressive enough for guests,
and guaranteed to be the first thing gone at the table.
FAQ:
Can I use regular dinner rolls instead of Hawaiian rolls?
Yes. Hawaiian rolls add a sweet contrast, but any soft dinner rolls work well.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Mozzarella gives the best melt and cheese pull. Add Parmesan for flavor and cheddar for extra richness.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate, then brush with garlic butter and bake right before serving.
How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?
Don’t overdo liquid add-ins, and bake uncovered at the end to crisp the top.
What should I serve this with?
It’s perfect with pasta, soups, salads, chili, or as a party appetizer with marinara for dipping.



