If you’re a fan of all things gooey, crispy, and downright comforting, then this Cheesy Grilled Cheese Roll Ups Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine the classic grilled cheese sandwich, but reinvented with a fun twist that turns each bite into a cheesy, crunchy delight. These roll ups are perfect for when you want something quick, satisfying, and totally shareable. Whether you’re making a weekend snack or a playful lunchbox surprise, this dish wraps up the best of melted cheddar inside crispy, buttery bread for a taste that feels both nostalgic and excitingly fresh.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple pantry staples that come together in perfect harmony to deliver maximum flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a key role: the bread for that golden crisp exterior, sharp cheddar for irresistibly gooey cheesiness, and butter to bring it all together with a rich, toasty finish.
- Soft White Bread: Thick slices work best and rolling out the bread ensures a smooth canvas for rolling and melting cheese.
- Finely Grated Cheddar: Choose sharp cheddar for a tangy kick that melts beautifully into every bite.
- Butter (melted): Adds richness and helps get that perfect golden brown crust when frying.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make Cheesy Grilled Cheese Roll Ups Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Bread
Start by slicing the crusts off your thick white bread slices. This step is crucial for getting those lovely, even roll ups that don’t have any tough edges. Then, grab a rolling pin and gently flatten each slice — this creates a pliable base that’s perfect for holding all that cheesy goodness without breaking apart.
Step 2: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle a generous pinch of finely grated cheddar onto each flattened bread slice, leaving a small strip free at one end. This cheese layer is where all the magic happens, giving these roll ups their signature melty, savory core. Remember, the trick is to leave that buttered border so you can seal your roll.
Step 3: Roll It Up
Carefully roll each slice up tightly from one end to the other, then brush the exposed border with melted butter to help seal it closed. Place each roll seam-side-down on your work surface. This technique ensures that your cheesy roll ups stay snug and hold their shape during cooking.
Step 4: Butter and Fry
Brush the outside of each roll up generously with butter on all sides. Heat a dry pan over low to medium heat and add the roll ups seam-side-down. Fry slowly, turning frequently with tongs, until each side is golden and crisp and you start to see those irresistible little bursts of melted cheese peeking out. Depending on your pan size, you might need to cook these in batches.
How to Serve Cheesy Grilled Cheese Roll Ups Recipe
Garnishes
These roll ups are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate the experience by sprinkling some fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving. A pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes can add a subtle, smoky finish that pairs wonderfully with the rich cheddar.
Side Dishes
Pair your Cheesy Grilled Cheese Roll Ups Recipe with vibrant sides like a crisp garden salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette or a bowl of tomato soup for that ultimate cozy combo. They also go great with roasted veggies or crunchy pickles, balancing the richness with refreshing textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing your roll ups into bite-sized pinwheels for a fun appetizer twist that’s perfect for parties or snack platters. You can also stack them alongside dipping sauces like garlic aioli, spicy ketchup, or a creamy ranch dip to make serving interactive and extra tasty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store your roll ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. This will keep them fresh and ready for a quick snack or second helping without losing that wonderful crispiness.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the roll ups before frying. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to a month and can be fried straight from frozen, though they may need a little extra time in the pan.
Reheating
To reheat, warm them in a skillet over low heat to maintain their crisp exterior, or pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it tends to make the bread soggy and the cheese rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic for this Cheesy Grilled Cheese Roll Ups Recipe, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for varied flavor profiles.
Is it necessary to remove the bread crusts?
Removing the crusts makes rolling easier and creates a more uniform, tender roll. You can skip this step if you like a heartier texture, but the crusts don’t roll as smoothly and may crack during cooking.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! For a healthier twist, you can bake the roll ups on a lined baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through until golden and crispy.
How do I prevent cheese from leaking out too much?
Make sure to leave a small border without cheese where you’ll brush butter to seal the roll tightly. Rolling snugly without overfilling also helps keep the cheese inside during cooking.
What’s the best bread to use for these roll ups?
Soft white bread with a thick slice works best because it’s pliable and fries up to a crispy, buttery crust, making the imperfectly simple shine in this Cheesy Grilled Cheese Roll Ups Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Grilled Cheese Roll Ups Recipe is pure comfort food magic that’s both easy to make and impossible to resist. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a solo treat, these cheesy little bundles bring warmth, joy, and nostalgia to the table like no other snack can. So grab your bread, butter, and cheese, and get rolling — your taste buds will thank you!
PrintCheesy Grilled Cheese Roll Ups Recipe
These Grilled Cheese Roll Ups are a fun and delicious twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. Made by flattening slices of soft white bread, filling them with melted cheddar cheese, rolling them tightly, and frying until golden and crispy, they are perfect as a snack or appetizer. The outside is buttery and crispy, while the inside is gooey and cheesy, making them irresistible to both kids and adults.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 8 thick slices of soft white bread (see notes)
- 1.5 cups / 150g finely grated cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp melted butter (or as needed)
Instructions
- Prepare the bread: Slice the crusts off each slice of bread, then use a rolling pin to flatten each slice evenly, preparing them to be rolled without tearing.
- Add cheese and butter strip: Place a pinch of finely grated cheddar cheese on each flattened slice, leaving a small strip at one end free for brushing with butter to help seal the roll.
- Roll the bread: Carefully and tightly roll up each bread slice from one end to the other, then brush the exposed strip with melted butter and roll shut, placing each roll seam-side-down to hold shape.
- Butter the rolls: Brush all over the outside of each roll with melted butter to ensure a golden, crispy finish when frying.
- Fry the roll ups: Heat a dry pan over low to medium heat and place the roll ups seam-side-down. Fry them, turning frequently with tongs to cook evenly on all sides, until they are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese begins to leak out. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
Notes
- Use thick slices of soft white bread for easier rolling without tearing.
- If bread is too fresh and soft, it may tear more easily; slightly stale bread works well.
- You can substitute cheddar with other melting cheeses based on preference.
- Maintain low to medium heat when frying to ensure cheese melts without burning the bread.
- Serve immediately for best texture and gooey cheese experience.
