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    Hungry Healthy Happy » Recipes » Baked Goods

    Cheese and Onion Rolls

    Published: Nov 30, 2022 by Dannii · This post may contain affiliate links · 10 Comments

    87 shares
    • 56
    Jump to Recipe
    Diet: Vegetarian
    Cheese and onion rolls with a text title overlay.

    Cheese and onion rolls are like a deliciously cheesy vegetarian alternative to sausage rolls. Crispy puff pastry stuffed with a cheese, potato and onion mix with a hint of mustard. The perfect addition to a party food buffet, or for a tasty snack.

    A wooden serving board with a pile of cheese and onion rolls on it.

    Best eaten warm from the oven, these cheese and onion rolls are worth making yourself and skipping the store bought version. The cheese filling has a real burst of flavour and you can easily adapt them with different add-ins. Ready in just 30 minutes, these cheese rolls are great for a picnic too.

    If you are looking for some other recipes that are perfect for party food, then why not try our Christmas Sausage Rolls, Cheese Biscuits, Baked Jalapeno Poppers or Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken?

    Jump to:
    • Why you will love them
    • Ingredients and substitutions
    • How to make cheese and onion rolls - Step by step
    • What to serve with Cheese and onion rolls
    • Variations
    • Storage
    • Frequently Asked Questions
    • Extra tips
    • More cheese recipes
    • Recipe
    • Feedback

    Why you will love them

    • Easy - These are so easy to make. It's as simple as mixing everything together and adding it to store bought pastry (one of our favourite time saving hacks).
    • Lots of flavour - If you have tried the store bough cheese and onion rolls before, you will know that they are a little bland. These are packed with cheesy flavour and the fresh onion just adds something extra.
    • Adaptable - We have kept this recipe fairly simple, but given a few different ways of how you can adapt them.
    • Stores well - We love making a big batch of these cheese and onion sausage rolls and storing them in the freezer to grab to add to lunch boxes or snacks on the go.
    • Kids love them - If your kids are constantly snacking (how are they always so hungry?) this is an easy and filling snack.
    • Delicious party food - Sausage rolls are a must at any party and these are a great vegetarian alternative.

    Ingredients and substitutions

    All the ingredients needed for this recipe with text overlay labels.
    • Puff pastry - We used store bought puff pastry as we have made our own before and honestly can't taste the difference for the amount of effort it took.
    • Potatoes - This helps to bulk them out and make them more filling. A little time saving hack - instead of cooking potatoes for this recipe, it's a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes.
    • Onion - We used a brown onion. You could use a red onion though if you prefer.
    • Cheese - The star of the recipe. We used a mature cheddar because it has a strong flavour and a little goes a long way. You could do half and half with Parmesan too. We wouldn't recommend using something like Mozzarella for cheese and onion rolls, because it is too stringy and melty.
    • Butter - This is what the onions are softened in and it really caramelises them.
    • Mustard - An easy way to add lots of flavour. We used English mustard as we wanted a strong mustard flavour, but you would use Dijon or even wholegrain.
    • Egg - This is brushed on the pastry to give the cheese and onion rolls a golden crisp finish.
    • Chia seeds - This makes them look really nice. You could use poppy seeds, but this is what we had and it adds some extra protein.
    • Gherkins - This adds a lovely crunchy texture to the mix. You could leave it out if you prefer.

    A full ingredients list with measurements is in the recipe card below.

    How to make cheese and onion rolls - Step by step

    Prep: Preheat your oven to 200°C/400°F/Gas 6.
    One: Add the diced potatoes to a pan of boiling water. Return to the boil and simmer until tender, about 4-5 minutes.

    Diced potato in a pan of water.

    Two: Meanwhile, heat a pan and melt the butter. Add the onions (a). Cook over a low heat until softened (b), about 5 minutes.

    Two shot collage of chopped onions in a pan, before and after cooking.

    Three: Drain the potatoes and leave to steam dry for a few minutes (a). Mash the potatoes (b).

    Two shot collage of cooked potatoes in a bowl, before and after mashing.

    Four: Add the cheese, cooked onions, chopped gherkins and mustard to the mashed potato (a). Mix well to combine everything (b).

    Two shot collage of onions, cheese, gherkins and mustard added to the bowl, then all mixed together.

    Five: Slice the pastry lengthways in half. Divide the potato mixture along the two pieces of pastry (a). Roll the pastry around the mixture (b). Repeat with the second roll and carefully turn the rolls over so they are seam side down (c).

    Three shot collage of the potato mixture on the puff pastry, then rolled into a sausage shape.

    Six: Slice each roll into eight pieces (a). Brush with whisked egg and sprinkle over the chia seeds (b).

    Two shot collage of the rolls cut into eight pieces each, then egg washed and sprinkled with chia seeds.

    Seven: Arrange the rolls on a lined baking tray with space in between them (a). Bake in the oven for 25 minutes (b).

    Two shot collage of sixteen rolls on a lined baking tray, before and after cooking.

    What to serve with Cheese and onion rolls

    There are so many different ways to serve these cheese and onion rolls, which is what we love about them. They are the perfect addition to a party food buffet with all the usual favourites.

    Kids also love them, so why not serve with up with some Air Fryer Potato Wedges and Slow Cooker Baked Beans for a proper kid's tea?

    Why dip bread into soup when you could dip these into it? These are delicious dipped in to our Easy Tomato Soup, Creamy Vegetable Soup or even our Kale Soup.

    Variations

    This is a pretty simple recipe and we like to let the flavour of the cheese and onion shine through. However there are a few ways that you can change it up, so you can have them a different way every time.

    Bacon - Everything is better with bacon, right? Add some finely chopped cooked bacon into the mixture. You will need to adjust the amount of salt added, as the bacon will add saltiness.

    Herbs - Fresh or dried herbs will give a really big flavour boost. Why not go with rosemary, thyme or oregano which all go really well with cheese.

    Spinach - If you want to give these a green boost, you can add some finely chopped spinach to these cheese and onion rolls.

    Marmite - Love it or hate it (we LOVE it), it goes perfectly with cheese. Add a small spoonful to the cheese and onion mixture.

    Chutney - If you have lots of chutney leftover from Christmas, then add a little bit of this to the cheese and onion rolls. You want to be careful not to over stuff them though, otherwise you won't be able to fold the pastry.

    Bigger - These are mini rolls, but if you wanted a bigger version like a pasty, then why not try our Cheese and Onion Pasty?

    Two cheese puff pastry rolls topped with chia seeds.

    Storage

    Store: These cheese and onion rolls will keep in an air tight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

    Freeze: If you want to store them for longer, then they freeze really well. Individually wrap them and then put them in a freezer bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

    Defrost: You can defrost these in the fridge overnight.

    Reheat: If you wanted to warm these up a little then put them in the microwave for 10 seconds.

    A cheese and onion roll being dipped into some sauce.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I eat cheese and onion rolls cold?

    You definitely can. We prefer them hot as the cheese is nice and melty. But you can definitely eat them cold and they are a great addition to a picnic or packed lunch.

    Can you make cheese and onion rolls in advance?

    Yes, you definitely can. You can make up all the filling and keep it in a bowl, covered, in the fridge. Then you can make up the rolls when you are ready.

    How can I make vegan cheese and onion rolls?

    You can make these vegan with a few swaps. You can get some great vegan puff pasty now and then you will need to use oil instead of butter for the onions. Skip the egg wash, as you don't have to use this and of course you will need to use your favourite vegan cheddar alternative.

    How can I make gluten free cheese and onion rolls?

    To make a gluten free version of this, use gluten free puff pastry and mustard and make sure there is no cross contamination.

    heart icon

    Extra tips

    • If you are using ready rolled puff pastry, then you need to leave it out of the fridge for 15 minutes before you unroll it otherwise you will get cracks in it.
    • Cut through the pastry with a sharp knife. Don't drag your knife through it otherwise it will tear the pastry.
    • You can use less cheese in this recipe if you wanted to make them lighter, but you won't get that really cheesy flavour.
    • If you want to get the onions really caramelised, then you can add a little bit of brown sugar to them when they are cooking.
    • Although these are definitely best enjoyed warm, you will need to let them cool for about 10 minutes before serving as the cheese will be VERY hot inside straight from the oven.
    • The key to making these is not over stuffing the pastry, as they won't seal very well.

    More cheese recipes

    • Ham and Cheese Croissant
    • Epic Cheese Sandwich
    • 10 Minute Cream Cheese Pasta
    • Healthy Mac and Cheese

    If you’ve tried this cheese and onion roll recipe, let us know how you got on in the comments below.
    Tag us in your creations on Instagram @hungryhealthyhappy - Use the hashtag #hungryhealthyhappy too.

    Recipe

    Cheese and onion rolls on a serving board.

    Cheese and Onion Rolls

    Cheese and onion rolls are like a deliciously cheesy vegetarian alternative to sausage rolls. Crispy puff pastry stuffed with a cheese, potato and onion mix.
    An illustration of a v-shaped plant.
    Vegetarian
    5 from 13 votes
    Author: Dannii
    Pin Print Save recipe Recipe saved!
    Course: Snack
    Cuisine: British
    Prep Time: 10 minutes
    Cook Time: 35 minutes
    Total Time: 45 minutes
    Allergens:
    An illustration of a carton of milk.
    Dairy
    An illustration of a cracked egg.
    Eggs
    An illustration of two ears of wheat.
    Gluten
    An illustration of a mustard bottle.
    Mustard
    Servings: 16 servings
    Calories: 183kcal
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Ingredients

    UK Metric Measures - US Customary Measures
    • 375 g Puff pastry
    • 2 Potatoes - small; peeled and finely diced
    • 1 Onion - small; finely diced
    • 150 g Cheddar cheese - mature; grated
    • 2 tablespoon Butter
    • 1 teaspoon English mustard
    • 1 Egg - whisked
    • 2 Gherkins - finely chopped
    • 1 tablespoon Chia seeds

    Instructions

    • Preheat your oven to 200°C/400°F/Gas 6.
    • Add the diced potatoes to a pan of boiling water. Return to the boil and simmer until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
      2 Potatoes
    • Meanwhile, heat a pan and melt the butter. Add the onions. Cook over a low heat until softened, about 5 minutes.
      2 tablespoon Butter, 1 Onion
    • Drain the potatoes and leave to steam dry for a few minutes. Mash the potatoes.
    • Add the cheese, cooked onions, chopped gherkins and mustard to the mashed potato. Mix well to combine everything.
      1 Onion, 150 g Cheddar cheese, 2 Gherkins, 1 teaspoon English mustard
    • Slice the pastry lengthways in half. Divide the potato mixture along the two pieces of pastry.
      375 g Puff pastry
    • Roll the pastry around the mixture. Repeat with the second roll and carefully turn the rolls over so they are seam side down.
    • Slice each roll into eight pieces. Brush with whisked egg and sprinkle over the chia seeds.
      1 Egg, 1 tablespoon Chia seeds
    • Arrange the rolls on a lined baking tray with space in between them (a). Bake in the oven for 25 minutes (b).

    Notes

    • If you are using ready rolled puff pastry, then you need to leave it out of the fridge for 15 minutes before you unroll it otherwise you will get cracks in it.
    • Cut through the pastry with a sharp knife. Don't drag your knife through it otherwise it will tear the pastry.
    • You can use less cheese in this recipe if you wanted to make them lighter, but you won't get that really cheesy flavour.
    • If you want to get the onions really caramelised, then you can add a little bit of brown sugar to them when they are cooking.
    • Although these are definitely best enjoyed warm, you will need to let them cool for about 10 minutes before serving as the cheese will be VERY hot inside straight from the oven.
    • The key to making these is not over stuffing the pastry, as they won't seal very well.

    Nutritional Information

    Serving: 1roll | Calories: 183kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 23mg | Sodium: 189mg | Potassium: 137mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 155IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 78mg | Iron: 0.3mg
    DisclaimerThe nutritional information provided is approximate and is calculated using online tools. Information can vary depending on various factors, but we have endeavoured to be as accurate as possible.

     

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Beth

      December 11, 2022 at 6:18 am

      5 stars
      There is no way there are any leftovers with these tasty appetizers! Just in time for holiday parties!

      Reply
    2. Sara Welch

      December 11, 2022 at 6:07 am

      5 stars
      These were everything a gourmet sandwich should be and then some! Easy, quick and delicious little sliders, indeed!

      Reply
    3. Kris

      December 11, 2022 at 4:03 am

      5 stars
      So comforting and tasty! Will make again!

      Reply
    4. Gina Abernathy

      December 11, 2022 at 2:24 am

      5 stars
      This was my first time baking with puff pastry and I am now hooked. These rolls were absolutely delicious!

      Reply
    5. Kathleen

      December 11, 2022 at 12:18 am

      5 stars
      These are perfect little puff pastry rolls. Love the flavor combination too.

      Reply
    6. Kathryn

      December 10, 2022 at 3:42 pm

      5 stars
      I love baking with puff pastry and these savory rolls hit the spot! Such a delicious combination of flavors in each bite. Loved this recipe!

      Reply
    7. Dana

      December 10, 2022 at 3:11 pm

      5 stars
      These are so wonderfully flaky and tasty! Cheese and onion is such a great flavor combo.

      Reply
    8. kushigalu

      December 10, 2022 at 2:28 pm

      5 stars
      Drooling over these delicious rolls. I love the flavor combo here. Thanks for sharing.

      Reply
    9. Tara

      December 10, 2022 at 1:15 pm

      5 stars
      Oh wow! These rolls are such an amazing and delicious vegetarian alternative. The flavors sound absolutely fantastic.

      Reply
    10. Eni

      December 10, 2022 at 11:52 am

      5 stars
      I love these crunchy treats. They are delicious! Thank you for the recipe.

      Reply

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