If you love garlic bread but crave a sweeter, softer twist paired with a luscious cheesy dip, then Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread with Cheesy Dip is about to become your new favorite indulgence. This recipe combines the pillowy, subtly sweet texture of Hawaiian rolls with rich garlic butter and a creamy, cheesy dip that’s perfect for dunking. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser—easy to make, irresistibly delicious, and perfect for game days, parties, or casual family snacks.
In this article, you’ll discover why Hawaiian rolls make the perfect base for garlic bread, how to whip up the flavorful garlic topping and gooey dip, and tips for presentation and serving that will impress any crowd.
What Makes Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread Special?
Traditional garlic bread is often made with a crusty baguette or Italian loaf—crisp on the outside and soft inside. Hawaiian rolls, however, bring something different to the table: a tender, slightly sweet bread that soaks up the garlic butter beautifully without drying out.
This sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory garlic and butter mixture, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Adding a cheesy dip takes this snack to the next level, offering a warm, creamy complement that’s perfect for dunking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Garlic Bread:
- 12 Hawaiian rolls, sliced in half horizontally
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Cheesy Dip:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup milk (adjust for desired consistency)
- Optional: chopped green onions or fresh herbs for garnish
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 15–18 minutes
- Total Time: 30–35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6-8 as an appetizer or snack
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking dish or sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the garlic butter:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, salt, and parsley. Stir well to blend the flavors.
3. Prepare the rolls:
Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves on the baking dish. Brush generously with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Bake the bottoms:
Bake the rolls for about 10 minutes until they start to turn golden and absorb the garlic butter.
5. Make the cheesy dip:
While the bread bakes, mix the softened cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper in a bowl. Gradually add milk to reach a creamy but dippable consistency.
6. Assemble and finish baking:
Remove the rolls from the oven. Spread a generous layer of cheesy dip on each bottom half. Place the top halves of the rolls back on, and brush them with the remaining garlic butter.
Return to the oven for another 5–8 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the cheese dip is warm and bubbly.
7. Serve warm:
Garnish with chopped green onions or herbs if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Estimated per serving (based on 1 roll half with dip):
- Calories: 230
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
Note: These values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Presentation and Serving Tips
- Serving Platter: Arrange the rolls on a wooden board or large plate, with extra cheesy dip in a small bowl on the side for dipping.
- Party Ready: These rolls are perfect finger food. Consider cutting the rolls into smaller sliders for easy snacking.
- Add a Side: Serve alongside fresh vegetable sticks, pickles, or a crisp green salad to balance the richness.
- Make it Spicy: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter or mix some diced jalapeños into the cheesy dip for a little kick.
Variations and Customizations
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil, oregano, or rosemary to the garlic butter for an aromatic twist.
- Different Cheeses: Swap mozzarella for pepper jack or cheddar to vary the cheesy dip flavor.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter and vegan cream cheese with nutritional yeast to replicate the cheesy taste.
- Extra Garlic: For garlic lovers, roast garlic beforehand for a sweeter, mellow flavor or add garlic salt to the dip.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread with Cheesy Dip is perfect because it combines the best of sweet and savory, soft and crunchy, creamy and buttery. It’s a recipe that’s easy enough for busy weeknights but special enough for entertaining guests. The cheesy dip elevates the humble garlic bread into a decadent snack or appetizer everyone will rave about.
This dish also adapts well to your pantry staples and personal preferences, making it a versatile and reliable go-to recipe.
Next time you crave something warm, cheesy, and utterly satisfying, try this Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread with Cheesy Dip. Its blend of tender sweet rolls, rich garlic butter, and creamy cheese creates a snack that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether for a party platter, family movie night, or a simple treat, it’s guaranteed to disappear fast.
Gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy one of the best twists on garlic bread you’ll ever taste!