If you adore the classic flavor of grilled cheese but crave an irresistible, dippable twist, Grilled Cheese Roll Ups are about to become your new favorite comfort snack. Imagine melty cheddar wrapped inside buttery, golden bread “cigars”—they’re as fun to eat as they are to make, and honestly impossible to resist!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fun & Kid-Friendly: Rolling up grilled cheese into bite-sized sticks makes mealtime interactive (and a total hit with picky eaters!).
- Crispy, Gooey Perfection: Each Grilled Cheese Roll Up has a golden crust and a molten center that’s simply crave-worthy.
- Perfect for Dipping: The shape is just right for dunking in tomato soup, marinara, or ranch—say goodbye to soggy sandwiches!
- Quick & Pantry-Friendly: You only need staple ingredients and 20 minutes, so satisfying snack attacks is never a chore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Grilled Cheese Roll Ups come together with just a handful of everyday staples—each one playing a key role in creating that classic, craveable flavor. Here’s what you’ll need and why each ingredient matters!
- 8 slices soft white bread: Choose a tender white loaf—softness is key so you can roll without cracking, but any sandwich bread you love works well.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Freshly shredded cheddar melts beautifully, giving you that rich, tangy, super-gooey center everyone loves.
- 6 tablespoons butter, divided: Butter brings all the golden-brown, crispy magic to the party—be generous for that classic grilled cheese finish.
- Marinara sauce, tomato soup or ranch dressing (for dipping): Totally optional, but these dips send the flavor (and fun) right over the top!
Variations
The beauty of Grilled Cheese Roll Ups is how endlessly customizable they are! Feel free to tweak the filling, swap bread, or add extras to match your mood, pantry contents, or dietary needs.
- Cheese Lovers’ Roll Ups: Experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, Swiss, or a blend for fun twists on the classic cheesy interior.
- Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free: Use whole wheat bread or your favorite gluten-free loaf—just remember, softer bread rolls up more easily.
- Stuffed With Extras: Slip in a few slices of ham, pepperoni, sautéed mushrooms, or thinly sliced tomatoes for a heartier, flavor-packed bite.
- Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or a smear of sriracha inside before rolling for those who love heat.
How to Make Grilled Cheese Roll Ups
Step 1: Trim & Roll Out the Bread
Start by gently trimming the crusts from each slice of bread. Use a rolling pin to flatten each piece to about 1/8-inch thickness—this gives you the perfect canvas for rolling and makes each bite super tender and crisp.
Step 2: Fill and Roll
Sprinkle each flattened slice with about 2 tablespoons of shredded cheddar. Roll up each slice tightly, almost like a sushi roll, so the cheese is snugly packed and won’t leak out during cooking.
Step 3: Butter Bath
Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a shallow bowl. Dip each roll up in the melted butter—this ensures every inch is coated for that classic, toasty finish we all love in a grilled cheese.
Step 4: Grill to Golden Perfection
Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a large non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the roll ups in batches and sauté for 1-2 minutes per side, turning until every surface is perfectly golden and crisp. Remove to a tray as they’re done.
Step 5: Serve & (Optional) Dip
Transfer your hot Grilled Cheese Roll Ups to a platter and serve immediately. Offer them with bowls of marinara, tomato soup, or ranch dressing for dipping—each bite is cheesy, crunchy, and full of comfort!
Pro Tips for Making Grilled Cheese Roll Ups
- Bread Matters Most: Use the softest bread you can find; day-old or slightly stale bread may split when rolled—fresh is always best for seamless roll ups.
- Tight Rolls Equal Less Mess: Roll each slice snugly so the cheese stays tucked inside and doesn’t ooze out onto your pan.
- Listen for the Sizzle: Medium heat is the Goldilocks zone—your Grilled Cheese Roll Ups will get perfectly crisp outside while giving the cheese time to melt without burning the bread.
- Butter Every Surface: Dip thoroughly in melted butter, not just a swipe—you want every fold and seam crispy, not dry!
How to Serve Grilled Cheese Roll Ups
Garnishes
A classic sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives over your platter instantly adds color and freshness. For even more flair, add a dusting of grated Parmesan right as they come off the pan—the cheese melts just slightly, amping up both aroma and flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair your Grilled Cheese Roll Ups with a steaming mug of tomato soup for the nostalgic comfort food experience. They’re also fantastic alongside a crisp green salad, crunchy coleslaw, or veggie sticks for a lighter, more balanced lunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack your roll ups “campfire style” in a basket lined with parchment for casual snacking, or stand them up around a ramekin of dipping sauce for a playful party platter. Mini skewers or toothpicks add a festive touch for gatherings or kid-friendly after-school nibbles.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any roll ups left (which is rare!), let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This helps keep them as crisp as possible.
Freezing
Want to prep ahead? Assemble (but don’t cook) your Grilled Cheese Roll Ups, then freeze on a tray until solid before transferring to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep well for up to one month and can be cooked straight from frozen—just allow an extra minute or so per side.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally, until warmed through and crisp again. The air fryer is also a quick and easy option—just a few minutes at 350°F brings back the crunch!
FAQs
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Can I use different types of bread for Grilled Cheese Roll Ups?
Absolutely! While soft white bread is easiest to roll, whole wheat, sourdough, or even gluten-free loaves work well—just ensure they’re fresh and pliable for easy rolling and minimal cracking.
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Can Grilled Cheese Roll Ups be made ahead for parties?
Yes! You can assemble the roll ups hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to cook. For parties, you can even prep and freeze them uncooked, then sauté straight from frozen for fresh, crispy bites when guests arrive.
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What are the best cheeses to use for this recipe?
Cheddar is classic for its meltability and flavor, but mozzarella, pepper jack, or any good melting cheese will work. Mix and match to discover your favorite combo!
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How do I keep my roll ups from unrolling during cooking?
Roll tightly and place the seam-side down in the buttered skillet first—this helps set the shape and seal the edge as they cook. If you’re adding extra fillings, keep them minimal to avoid overstuffing.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re making a nostalgic snack for yourself or whipping up a playful platter for a crowd, Grilled Cheese Roll Ups are as comforting as they are fun. Give them a try—you’ll be hooked on that crunchy, molten magic in every bite!
Print
Grilled Cheese Roll Ups Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 5 mins
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 8 roll ups 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Saute, Roll
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Grilled Cheese Roll Ups are a fun twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. Perfectly crispy on the outside with gooey melted cheese on the inside, they make a delicious snack or appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients
Bread:
- 8 slices soft white bread
Cheese Filling:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Butter:
- 6 tablespoons butter, divided
Dipping Sauce:
- Marinara sauce, tomato soup, or ranch dressing, for dipping
Instructions
- Prepare Bread: Trim the crusts from each slice of bread. Roll one slice to about 1/8-inch thickness. Sprinkle with shredded cheese. Roll up tightly. Repeat with remaining slices.
- Cook Roll Ups: Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a saute pan. Dip each roll up in melted butter from the shallow bowl, then transfer to the pan. Saute for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.
- Serve: Remove to a serving platter and serve with dipping sauce of choice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll up
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
