Ham And Cheese Roll Ups Recipe

There’s something endlessly fun and nostalgic about finger foods like ham and cheese roll ups. They’re the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory in every bite. Whether you’re packing them for a picnic, serving them at a party, or sneaking a few from the fridge late at night, they always hit the spot. This recipe is so easy and versatile, it’s almost impossible to mess up—and trust me, I’ve tried enough tweaks and shortcuts to know!

Ham And Cheese Roll Ups Recipe

I remember the first time I made these for a family gathering. I was in a bit of a panic, trying to whip up something quick before guests arrived. I pulled out some tortillas, ham, and a block of cream cheese I had stashed in the fridge. After a little experimenting with flavors (hello, pickle relish), I rolled them up, sliced them, and hoped for the best. To my surprise, they disappeared within minutes. I barely got to taste one! It was a lightbulb moment—sometimes, simple really is better.

A little history behind roll ups

Pinwheels, wraps, or roll ups—whatever you call them—have been around for decades. They’re essentially a modern twist on tea sandwiches, a staple of elegant British tea parties in the 1800s. Over time, these dainty bites evolved into crowd-pleasers for all kinds of occasions. What’s not to love about a soft tortilla hugging a creamy filling and flavorful add-ins? From traditional cream cheese and salmon to inventive Tex-Mex or Italian versions, roll ups are endlessly adaptable.

Let’s talk ingredients: the stars of this recipe

Every ingredient here plays an important role, and there’s plenty of room to customize! Let’s break it down.

  • Cream cheese: The creamy base that holds everything together. It adds richness and tang, especially when whipped. If you’re out, softened mascarpone can work in a pinch. Want a healthier option? Try whipped Greek yogurt cream cheese—it’s lighter but still spreadable.
  • Garlic powder: This little sprinkle adds a subtle, savory depth. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dash of smoked paprika or onion powder can be fun alternatives.
  • Cheddar cheese: The sharpness of cheddar complements the creaminess beautifully. Feel free to swap in Monterey Jack or Colby if that’s what you’ve got on hand.
  • Dill pickle relish: This is the secret ingredient that adds a pop of tangy flavor. Not a pickle fan? Try finely diced olives or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different vibe.
  • Tortilla shells: Soft flour tortillas are best for easy rolling, but whole wheat or spinach wraps are great for added nutrition. Just avoid corn tortillas—they tend to crack.
  • Deli ham: Thinly sliced deli ham makes these roll ups meaty and satisfying. Turkey or roast beef works too, or go vegetarian with roasted veggies.
Ham And Cheese Roll Ups Recipe

Kitchen gear: What makes rolling easier

No need for fancy gadgets here! Here’s what I recommend to keep the process smooth:

  • Handheld mixer: This is a lifesaver for whipping cream cheese quickly. If you don’t have one, just let the cream cheese soften completely and mix by hand—it’ll just take a little elbow grease.
  • Spatula: A rubber or silicone spatula is ideal for spreading the cream cheese mixture evenly without tearing the tortilla.
  • Sharp knife: To get clean, even slices, a good knife is key. A serrated blade also works great for cutting through the tortilla without squishing the filling.
  • Plastic wrap: Wrapping the rolls tightly helps them hold their shape while chilling. Foil works too in a pinch.

Step-by-step: My foolproof method

Step 1: Whip the cream cheese

Start by adding the softened cream cheese and garlic powder to a large bowl. Use a handheld mixer to whip it until it’s light and fluffy. This step is worth the extra effort—it makes spreading so much easier. Stir in the shredded cheddar and pickle relish until everything is well combined.

Step 2: Spread and layer

Lay out your tortillas on a clean surface. Divide the cream cheese mixture evenly among them, spreading it all the way to the edges. This ensures every bite is flavorful and helps seal the roll ups. Next, layer on the ham slices, making sure they’re evenly distributed.

Step 3: Roll and chill

Carefully roll each tortilla as tightly as you can without squeezing out the filling. Wrap each roll in plastic wrap, twisting the ends like a candy wrapper to hold it snug. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you have the time. This step is crucial for firm, clean slices.

Step 4: Slice and serve

Once chilled, unwrap the rolls and trim off the uneven ends. Then, slice each roll into 8 bite-sized pieces. If you’re feeling fancy, arrange them on a platter in concentric circles or a fun pattern.

Ham And Cheese Roll Ups Recipe

Variations to try (because one version is never enough)

  • Vegan-friendly: Use dairy-free cream cheese and shredded vegan cheese. Replace the ham with marinated tofu slices or roasted red peppers.
  • Gluten-free: Swap the tortillas for gluten-free wraps—just make sure they’re pliable enough to roll.
  • Spicy kick: Mix a tablespoon of sriracha or diced jalapeños into the cream cheese for some heat.
  • Italian twist: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and sliced prosciutto for a Mediterranean vibe.
  • Holiday flair: For festive occasions, use spinach wraps with a cranberry cream cheese spread and turkey.

I’ve tried the spicy version with jalapeños, and let me tell you, it’s a total crowd-pleaser for game day. The cranberry-turkey combo, on the other hand, is perfect for holiday gatherings—it’s a little sweet, a little savory, and totally irresistible.

Serving ideas: Make them the star of your spread

For a party, I love arranging these roll ups on a wooden board with a few extras: think olives, sliced veggies, or a small bowl of honey mustard for dipping. If you’re serving them as part of a bigger meal, they pair wonderfully with a light salad or soup. Garnish the platter with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color—it’s the little details that make a difference!

Drinks to pair with these bites

These ham and cheese roll ups are pretty versatile when it comes to drink pairings. For a casual gathering, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a bubbly Prosecco is a great choice. Beer drinkers will love them with a light lager or wheat beer. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a splash of cranberry juice or a refreshing iced tea works beautifully.

Storing and reheating tips

If you’re making these ahead, they store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To keep them fresh, line the container with a damp paper towel before sealing—it prevents them from drying out. Reheating isn’t necessary (and honestly not recommended), but if they’ve been in the fridge a while, let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving.

Scaling the recipe for a crowd

Need more or fewer roll ups? This recipe is super easy to scale. For a big party, double or triple the ingredients. When making a smaller batch, just know that spreading smaller amounts of the cream cheese mixture can be a little trickier—using a smaller spatula helps. Either way, the method stays the same, and they’ll taste just as good.

Wrapping up: Ready to roll?

These ham and cheese roll ups are proof that simple ingredients can create something magical. They’re quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for any occasion. So go ahead—grab your favorite tortilla, experiment with flavors, and make these your own. Trust me, once you’ve tried them, they’ll be a go-to in your recipe rotation.

Ham And Cheese Roll Ups Recipe

FAQs

1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! They’re even better when chilled overnight, so the flavors have time to meld.

2. What’s the best way to keep them fresh?
Store them in an airtight container with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.

3. Can I freeze these roll ups?
Freezing isn’t ideal because the tortillas can become soggy when thawed. They’re best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a couple of days.

4. What other fillings can I use?
You can get creative! Try turkey and cranberry, roast beef and horseradish, or even a veggie-loaded version with hummus.

5. How do I keep them from falling apart?
Make sure the cream cheese mixture reaches the edges of the tortilla—it acts as a glue to hold everything together.

Print
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Ham And Cheese Roll Ups Recipe

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 These easy ham and cheese roll ups are perfect for parties or snacks! Creamy, tangy, and customizable for any occasion.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling)
  • Yield: 32 pieces (8 roll ups per tortilla) 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz cream cheese room temperature
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
  • 2 tablespoons dill pickle relish
  • 4 tortilla shells (8 inches in size)
  • 1/2 pound deli ham

Instructions

Step 1: Whip the cream cheese

Start by adding the softened cream cheese and garlic powder to a large bowl. Use a handheld mixer to whip it until it’s light and fluffy. This step is worth the extra effort—it makes spreading so much easier. Stir in the shredded cheddar and pickle relish until everything is well combined.

Step 2: Spread and layer

Lay out your tortillas on a clean surface. Divide the cream cheese mixture evenly among them, spreading it all the way to the edges. This ensures every bite is flavorful and helps seal the roll ups. Next, layer on the ham slices, making sure they’re evenly distributed.

Step 3: Roll and chill

Carefully roll each tortilla as tightly as you can without squeezing out the filling. Wrap each roll in plastic wrap, twisting the ends like a candy wrapper to hold it snug. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you have the time. This step is crucial for firm, clean slices.

Step 4: Slice and serve

Once chilled, unwrap the rolls and trim off the uneven ends. Then, slice each roll into 8 bite-sized pieces. If you’re feeling fancy, arrange them on a platter in concentric circles or a fun pattern.

Notes

Serving ideas: Make them the star of your spread

For a party, I love arranging these roll ups on a wooden board with a few extras: think olives, sliced veggies, or a small bowl of honey mustard for dipping. If you’re serving them as part of a bigger meal, they pair wonderfully with a light salad or soup. Garnish the platter with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color—it’s the little details that make a difference!

  • Author: Soraya
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: dinner

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