Ham And Cheese Roll Ups Recipe

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a recipe that’s simple, quick, and always a crowd-pleaser. Ham and cheese roll ups check all those boxes—and more! These little pinwheels are perfect for everything from a grab-and-go snack to a potluck appetizer that vanishes in minutes. What I love most is how endlessly versatile they are; whether you’re sticking to the classic version or adding your own twist, they never fail to impress.

this RECIPE

I first made these roll ups for a family picnic. We were all sprawled out on blankets, enjoying the sunshine and swapping bites of everything from pasta salad to homemade cookies. But you know what disappeared fastest? These ham and cheese roll ups. Kids and adults alike kept sneaking back for “just one more.” The creamy, tangy filling paired with the soft tortilla and salty ham… it was the perfect balance of flavors and textures. That day, I knew I’d found my new go-to party recipe.

The origin story of this recipe

While the exact origins of roll ups are hard to pinpoint, they’ve become a staple in American cuisine, especially for casual gatherings. They gained popularity in the mid-20th century when convenience foods like tortillas and cream cheese became household staples. Over time, countless variations popped up, from Italian-inspired pinwheels to Tex-Mex flavors. This ham and cheese version stays true to the classic concept: easy-to-make, bite-sized treats packed with bold flavor.

Let’s talk ingredients: the secret to perfect roll ups

Cream cheese

The foundation of the filling, cream cheese brings that creamy texture we all love. Make sure it’s at room temperature before you start; this makes it easier to mix and spread. You can substitute with low-fat cream cheese if you’re looking to lighten things up, though the full-fat version gives a richer taste.

Garlic powder

A little goes a long way! Garlic powder adds subtle warmth without overpowering the other flavors. If you’re out of garlic powder, you can try onion powder or even a pinch of smoked paprika for a twist.

Cheddar cheese

Shredded cheddar is what makes these roll ups extra cheesy. Go for sharp cheddar if you want a bolder flavor, or swap in mozzarella or Colby Jack for something milder. Always shred your own cheese if you can—it melts better and tastes fresher than the pre-packaged stuff.

Dill pickle relish

This is the “secret ingredient” that gives the filling its tangy zing. If you’re not a pickle fan, try finely diced green olives or even a spoonful of mustard for a different kind of tang.

Tortillas

Soft tortillas are what hold everything together. Flour tortillas work best because they’re pliable and won’t crack when rolled. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free tortillas—they work just as well!

Deli ham

Thinly sliced ham adds that savory, salty contrast to the creamy filling. Honey ham or smoked ham work beautifully, but turkey or roast beef can also be used if you’re in the mood to mix things up.

Kitchen gear you’ll need

You don’t need much for this recipe, which is part of its charm! A handheld mixer is key for whipping the cream cheese until it’s light and fluffy (you can use a sturdy whisk if you don’t have one, but it’ll take a bit more elbow grease). A sharp knife is essential for slicing the roll ups cleanly—serrated knives work particularly well for this. And of course, plastic wrap is your friend for keeping the rolls tight and fresh while they chill.

Step-by-step: how to make these ham and cheese roll ups

Step 1: Whip up the filling

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and garlic powder together until it’s smooth and fluffy. This step is important—it ensures your filling spreads easily and evenly. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and pickle relish until everything is well combined. Don’t skip the relish; it really ties the flavors together!

Step 2: Assemble the rolls

Lay out your tortillas on a flat surface. Divide the cream cheese mixture evenly among them, spreading it all the way to the edges. This ensures every bite is flavorful! Layer the ham slices evenly on top. Tip: Overlap the ham slightly to avoid gaps in your roll ups.

Step 3: Roll and wrap

Carefully roll each tortilla up as tightly as possible without tearing it. Once rolled, wrap each one in plastic wrap to hold its shape and keep it fresh. Pop them in the fridge for at least 4 hours (or overnight if you’re prepping ahead).

Step 4: Slice and serve

When you’re ready to serve, remove the rolls from the fridge and unwrap them. Use a sharp knife to trim off the ends, then slice each roll into eight pieces. Try to cut straight down without sawing to get neat, even pinwheels.

Variations to make these your own

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free tortillas. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free!
• Vegan: Swap the cream cheese for a plant-based alternative, use vegan cheddar, and try roasted red peppers or marinated tofu in place of the ham.
• Spicy kick: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the filling for a spicy version.
• Seasonal flair: In the summer, try adding thin slices of cucumber or tomato for freshness. In the fall, smoked turkey and cranberry relish are great substitutions.
• International twist: Use naan or lavash instead of tortillas, and experiment with flavors like curry-spiced chicken or tzatziki instead of cream cheese.

Presentation tips: make them party-ready

For a polished look, arrange the roll ups on a platter in concentric circles or rows. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. These pair beautifully with a side of mustard or ranch dressing for dipping. If you’re serving them as part of a larger spread, consider adding a veggie tray or a bowl of crunchy potato chips to complement the soft, creamy texture of the roll ups.

What drinks pair best?

For a casual gathering, I’d suggest an ice-cold lemonade or a crisp lager. If you’re in the mood for wine, a dry rosé or a lightly oaked Chardonnay complements the creaminess of the filling and the saltiness of the ham. And for something non-alcoholic, sparkling water with a splash of cranberry juice feels fancy yet refreshing.

How to store and reheat leftovers

These roll ups are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To keep them from drying out, line the container with a damp paper towel. Reheating isn’t necessary; these are meant to be eaten cold or at room temperature. If they’ve been sitting out for more than two hours, though, it’s best to discard any leftovers for safety.

Adjusting the recipe for different group sizes

This recipe makes about 32 roll ups, but it’s super easy to scale. For a smaller group, halve the ingredients and use just two tortillas. For a big party, double or triple the recipe. Just keep in mind that the filling spreads best in small batches, so you might need to whip it up in stages if you’re making a ton.

Troubleshooting tips

• Filling too thick? Add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
• Roll ups not holding together? Make sure you’re rolling tightly and chilling long enough for the cream cheese to firm up.
• Edges too messy? Trim them off before slicing—those scraps are the perfect cook’s treat!

Ready to roll?

These ham and cheese roll ups are as fun to make as they are to eat. They’re the kind of recipe that fits every occasion and never goes out of style. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and give them a try—you might just find yourself sneaking “one more” too.

FAQs

1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! These are perfect for prepping the night before. Just store them in the fridge wrapped in plastic to keep them fresh.

2. Can I freeze the roll ups?
Freezing isn’t ideal because the texture of the cream cheese can change, but they’ll still taste okay in a pinch.

3. What’s the best way to transport these?
Pack them tightly in a container with a lid, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

4. Can I use flavored cream cheese?
Absolutely! Herb or chive cream cheese would add an extra layer of flavor.

5. How do I keep the tortillas from tearing?
Make sure they’re fresh and pliable. If they feel stiff, microwave them for a few seconds to soften them up.

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