These Cheesy Cornbread Rolls turn a can of Pillsbury cornbread swirls into an irresistible side. Soft, buttery cornbread is filled with a creamy mix of cream cheese and shredded cheddar, seasoned with chili spice, then rolled, brushed with seasoned butter, and baked until golden with a gooey center. They come together quickly and make a perfect accompaniment to chili, BBQ, or a cozy weeknight soup.
Bring more flavor to cornbread
I love using canned dough products to save time in the kitchen, and Pillsbury cornbread swirls are a great shortcut when you want cornbread flavor without the fuss. Their texture is different from scratch cornbread but they deliver that familiar corn-forward taste that pairs beautifully with savory fillings.
This recipe stuffs the rolled cornbread dough with a quick cream cheese and cheddar filling spiced with chili seasoning. After brushing with a bit of seasoned melted butter and baking, you’ll have warm, handheld rolls with a slightly crisp exterior and a melty, cheesy center—perfect alongside chili, smoked meats, or a bowl of soup.
Key ingredients
Below are the highlights to help you shop and plan. The full ingredient list with amounts is available in the recipe card below.
- Cornbread swirls – Use Pillsbury cornbread swirls or a similar canned cornbread roll product as the dough base. These give you quick, consistent results and the right flavor profile for this recipe.
- Cheese and cream cheese – A simple filling of softened cream cheese combined with shredded cheddar becomes rich and melty when baked inside the cornbread dough.
- Chili seasoning – A small amount adds a warm, savory kick that complements chili or BBQ. If you prefer a different flavor match, swap in your favorite seasoning blend.
Step-by-step instructions
Follow these steps for reliable results. For exact measurements and full details, see the recipe card below.
What to serve them with
These cheesy cornbread rolls are ideal for dipping into a hearty bowl of chili and make an excellent side for any comfort-food meal. They also pair well with tomato soup, barbecue plates, smoked meats, or a cozy stew. For parties, serve them warm as an appetizer—offer a drizzle of honey or hot honey to add a sweet or spicy finishing touch.
Because the rolls are sturdy and portable, they’re a great addition to game-day spreads and tailgates. Their mild cornbread flavor and cheesy interior complement bold dishes and smoky flavors, making them versatile and crowd-pleasing.
Cornbread Rolls
Ingredients
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 ½ teaspoons chili seasoning, divided
- 6 count Pillsbury cornbread swirls
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and 2 teaspoons of the chili seasoning. Mix until smooth and evenly combined.
- Roll out the cornbread swirls on a clean surface. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the dough. Carefully roll the dough back up over the filling and slice into 6 equal rolls. Place the rolls on a parchment‑lined baking sheet, cut side up.
- Mix the melted butter with the remaining ½ teaspoon of chili seasoning. Brush the tops of the rolls with the seasoned butter.
- Bake for 14–16 minutes, until the rolls are golden and the centers are warm and melty. Let cool a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in an air fryer at 400°F for 2–3 minutes for best texture, or warm in the oven or microwave.
- Flavor swaps: Swap the chili seasoning for BBQ rub to pair the rolls with smoked meats, or add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.