If you’re dreaming of a snack that’s sweet, savory, and downright irresistible, then this Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Combining the soft, pillowy sweetness of classic Hawaiian rolls with the rich, garlicky flavor and gooey mozzarella cheese, this treat hits every note for a perfect bite. Whether you’re planning a game day snack, a quick appetizer, or something to jazz up your dinner table, this recipe brings comfort and excitement together in every warm, cheesy pull-apart roll.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is all it takes to whip up this delightful Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread Recipe. Each component works harmoniously to create a lush balance of flavor, texture, and color you’ll love showing off.
- Hawaiian Rolls (1 package, 12-ct): Their natural sweetness and soft crumb form the perfect base for this garlic bread.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully to add creamy, gooey goodness that pulls apart in the best way.
- Butter (½ cup, melted): This envelops the rolls with rich, luscious flavor and helps carry the garlic and herbs.
- Italian Seasoning (1 tsp): A fragrant blend that gives your garlic butter a fresh, herby lift.
- Minced Garlic (2 tsp): The star flavor that adds a warm, pungent kick and unforgettable aroma.
How to Make Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step ensures your garlic bread will bake evenly and slide off the pan with ease, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cut the Rolls
Next, separate those fluffy Hawaiian rolls into individual pieces. Make two cuts about two-thirds of the way down each roll—remember, don’t cut all the way through! This technique allows for the filling to sneak inside without losing the roll’s structure, giving you that satisfying pull-apart effect.
Step 3: Mix and Brush the Garlic Butter
Now it’s time to combine your melted butter, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic into a fragrant, savory mixture. Brush this liberally over the top of each roll, making sure to get the garlicky goodness into the cuts. This step infuses every bite with rich flavor.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Fill those wonderful cuts with shredded mozzarella cheese. The cheese will melt down into the crevices during baking, turning each roll into a melting pot of cheesy bliss.
Step 5: Bake the Rolls
Place your prepped rolls on the lined baking sheet and slide them into the oven. Bake for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the rolls are beautifully golden on top.
Step 6: Final Brush of Garlic Butter
When your garlic bread comes out of the oven, brush the remaining garlic butter over the top one more time. This adds that final glossy, flavorful touch that takes the Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread Recipe over the top.
How to Serve Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread Recipe

Garnishes
To elevate the look and flavor, sprinkle some finely chopped fresh parsley or basil over the tops just before serving. These bright green herbs add a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that balances perfectly with the cheesy, buttery richness.
Side Dishes
This garlic bread pairs amazingly with classic comfort dishes like spaghetti bolognese, creamy tomato soup, or a crisp Caesar salad. It’s versatile enough to stand alongside anything from hearty family dinners to casual get-togethers.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the rolls on a rustic wooden board alongside small bowls of marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping. You can also add a handful of olives, sliced meats, or fresh veggie sticks to turn this into a crowd-pleasing snack platter that invites sharing and conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which may be hard to believe), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain that soft, fresh texture.
Freezing
This Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread Recipe actually freezes well. Wrap the prepared but unbaked rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to one month. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the rolls back in a preheated 350ºF oven for about 5 to 7 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melted again. This method keeps them soft and delicious instead of soggy or tough.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is perfect for melting and mild flavor, you can mix in provolone, cheddar, or even a sprinkle of parmesan for a twist. Just consider the melting qualities and flavor strength each cheese brings.
How spicy is the Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread Recipe?
This recipe is typically mild and flavorful, focusing on garlic and herbs rather than spice. If you love a bit of heat, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, swap the butter for a plant-based margarine and choose vegan cheese alternatives. The Hawaiian rolls themselves sometimes contain dairy or eggs, so look for a vegan-friendly brand if you want to keep the entire recipe plant-based.
Why do I not cut all the way through the rolls?
Leaving the base of the rolls intact allows the cheese and butter to pool inside without the pieces falling apart, making for that perfect pull-apart effect everyone loves.
Can I use regular dinner rolls instead of Hawaiian rolls?
You can, but the Hawaiian rolls add a slightly sweet flavor that balances beautifully with the garlic and cheese. If you opt for dinner rolls, expect a different flavor profile but still a tasty outcome.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have this fantastic Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread Recipe in your kitchen arsenal, you’re just minutes away from creating a snack that feels like a warm hug. It’s simple, flavorful, and guaranteed to bring smiles at any table. Grab those rolls, get your garlic butter ready, and turn everyday bread into something truly special!
Print
Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread are a deliciously soft and cheesy treat made with sweet Hawaiian rolls, melted butter infused with garlic and Italian seasoning, and gooey mozzarella cheese baked to perfection. Perfect as a savory appetizer or side dish, these garlic cheese rolls are easy to prepare and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (12-ct) package Hawaiian Rolls
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tsp minced garlic
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare Rolls: Separate the Hawaiian rolls into individual pieces. Carefully make two cuts into each roll about two-thirds of the way down, being sure not to slice all the way through—this creates pockets for the filling.
- Make Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with the Italian seasoning and minced garlic. Stir well to blend the flavors.
- Apply Garlic Butter: Generously brush the garlic butter mixture over the tops of the rolls, making sure to get some inside the cuts for maximum flavor.
- Add Cheese: Stuff the shredded mozzarella cheese into each of the cuts you made in the rolls, filling them evenly.
- Arrange and Bake: Place the prepared rolls onto the lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Finish with Garlic Butter: Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and brush any remaining garlic butter over the top for extra richness and flavor.
Notes
- Be careful not to cut all the way through the rolls to keep the cheese inside while baking.
- You can add chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
- Serve warm immediately for the best taste and texture.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture.
- These rolls can be reheated in the oven at 350ºF for 5 minutes to restore freshness.

