Grilled Cheese Roll Ups Recipe

Update : February 2, 2026

Delicious grilled cheese roll ups served on a plate

why make this recipe

Grilled cheese roll-ups are a fun twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. They are easy to make, kid-friendly, and perfect for a quick snack or meal. These roll-ups have a crispy exterior and gooey cheese center, making them an irresistible treat. Plus, they are customizable, so you can experiment with different cheeses and seasonings to suit your taste.

how to make Grilled Cheese Roll Ups

Ingredients :

Bread: 8-10 slices of soft white sandwich bread (crusts removed). The softer and fresher the bread, the easier it will be to flatten and roll without tearing. Wonder Bread or similar generic white bread works exceptionally well due to its pliability. Whole wheat can be used, but ensure it’s a soft variety.
Cheese: 8-10 slices of your favorite melting cheese. Classic choices include:
- Cheddar Cheese: Provides a sharp, tangy flavor.
- American Cheese: The ultimate melter, offering a creamy, classic grilled cheese taste.
- Monterey Jack: Mild, buttery, and melts exceptionally well.
- Colby Jack: A delightful swirl of Colby and Monterey Jack, offering mild flavor and great meltability.
- Provolone: Offers a slightly more complex, mild, and smoky flavor with excellent stretch. You can also use shredded cheese, but slices tend to be neater for rolling. If using shredded, don’t overfill.
Butter: 4-5 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened to room temperature or melted. Salted butter can also be used; if so, you might want to omit any additional salt when seasoning. The butter is crucial for achieving that golden-brown, crispy exterior.
Optional Seasonings (for the butter or cheese):
- Garlic Powder: 1/4 teaspoon mixed into the softened butter adds a lovely aromatic touch.
- Paprika: A pinch on the cheese before rolling can add a hint of color and smoky flavor.
- Dried Italian Herbs: A small sprinkle over the cheese can add a Mediterranean flair.

Directions :

Place one slice of crustless bread on a clean, flat surface. Using a rolling pin, firmly but gently roll the bread as thinly as possible, almost like a tortilla. Aim for a thickness of about 1/16 to 1/8 inch. Roll in multiple directions to ensure it’s evenly flattened. Repeat with all slices of bread. This step is crucial; if the bread isn’t thin enough, it will be difficult to roll tightly and may unroll during cooking.
Place the cheese slice (or a neat line of shredded cheese) along one edge of the flattened bread, leaving a small border (about 1/4 inch) on the sides. If using optional seasonings like paprika or herbs, sprinkle them over the cheese now.
If using softened butter, gently spread a thin, even layer over the entire surface of each roll-up. This can be a bit more delicate but works just as well.
Carefully place the buttered roll-ups seam-side down in the preheated skillet. You may need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the temperature and result in less crispy roll-ups.
Cook for 2-4 minutes on the first side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Using tongs, carefully turn the roll-ups to cook on another side. Continue to cook and turn, approximately 1-2 minutes per side until all sides are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese inside is fully melted and gooey. This usually takes a total of 5-8 minutes. You’ll notice some cheese might start to ooze out – this is perfectly fine and often creates delicious, crispy cheese bits on the outside!
It’s best to serve them immediately while they are hot, the bread is crispy, and the cheese is at its meltiest.

how to serve Grilled Cheese Roll Ups

Grilled cheese roll-ups are best served hot. You can serve them plain or with dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or even ketchup. They make a great appetizer, snack, or a fun lunch option for kids!

how to store Grilled Cheese Roll Ups

If you have any leftovers, cool them down to room temperature and place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in a skillet for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.

tips to make Grilled Cheese Roll Ups

Use fresh, soft bread as it rolls easier and creates a better texture.
Make sure to not overfill the cheese, as too much can make it hard to roll and may lead to spilling during cooking.
Don’t skip the butter! It’s essential for the crispy outside.
Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.

variation

You can get creative with fillings! Consider adding cooked bacon strips, ham, or even thinly sliced vegetables like spinach or tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole grain bread?
Yes, you can use whole grain bread, but ensure it’s soft; otherwise, it may be difficult to roll.

2. Can I prepare these roll-ups in advance?
Yes, you can prep the roll-ups a few hours in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook them.

3. What if I don’t have a rolling pin?
You can use any flat, heavy object like a wine bottle to roll the bread flat if you don’t have a rolling pin.