Ham roll ups are a fun and tasty snack that anyone can enjoy! Made with slices of ham wrapped around cream cheese or veggies, they’re super simple to prepare.
These little bites are perfect for parties or just snacking at home. I usually make a few extra because they disappear fast—everyone loves them! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ham: Thinly sliced ham is the star here. I prefer deli-style ham for a good balance of flavor and texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken slices work great too!
Cream Cheese: This adds a creamy texture. Low-fat cream cheese or flavored varieties (like chive or garlic) are nice alternatives if you’re watching calories or want extra flavor.
Dill Pickles: The crunchiness is key! If you’re not a fan of pickles, sliced cucumbers or bell peppers can work well, offering a fresh crunch.
Spices: Garlic and onion powder pack in the flavor. If you prefer fresh garlic or onion, that would work too—just be cautious with the amounts since they are stronger.
How to Create Tightly Rolled Ham Roll Ups?
Getting your roll ups just right matters for presentation and bite-size enjoyment! Here’s how to ensure they stay tightly rolled:
- Lay the ham slices flat without overlapping them.
- Spread the cream cheese evenly but leave about half an inch at the edge for sealing.
- Place the pickle at one end and roll tightly, starting from that end. Use the cream cheese to “seal” it down.
- Once rolled, slice with a sharp knife to keep edges clean.
Enjoy making your ham roll ups. They are a hit at gatherings or as a quick snack!
How to Make Ham Roll Ups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 slices of ham (thinly sliced)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 dill pickle spears (or substitute with sliced cucumbers)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Fresh parsley or dried herbs for garnish
- Optional: black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for last-minute snacking or adding to your party platter!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ham Slices:
Start by laying out the slices of ham flat on a clean surface such as a cutting board or a plate. Make sure they are spaced out and not overlapping so you can easily spread the cream cheese.
2. Spread the Cream Cheese:
Take the softened cream cheese and evenly spread it over each slice of ham. Use a knife or spatula to get an even layer. Don’t forget to leave a small border all around, about half an inch, to make it easier to roll.
3. Season the Filling:
Next, sprinkles the garlic powder and onion powder over the cream cheese layer. This will add tasty flavor to your roll ups!
4. Add the Crunch:
Now it’s time to add the pickle! Position one dill pickle spear at one end of each ham slice. If you’re using sliced cucumbers, line a few slices along the edge instead.
5. Roll It Up:
Begin rolling the ham slice tightly from the edge where the pickle is placed. Roll it all the way to the other end, ensuring the cream cheese sticks everything together nicely.
6. Cut into Bite-Sized Pieces:
Use a sharp knife to cut each rolled ham slice into 2-3 bite-sized pieces. Try to cut straight across for clean edges, and don’t worry if they’re not perfect — they’ll still taste delicious!
7. Arrange and Garnish:
Arrange the beautifully rolled ham bites on a serving plate. For a touch of color, sprinkle fresh parsley or dried herbs on top. If you’d like, add freshly ground black pepper for an extra kick!
8. Serving Suggestions:
These ham roll ups can be served chilled or at room temperature. They make a fantastic appetizer, snack, or addition to a party platter. Enjoy your delicious and easy ham roll ups!
Can I Use Different Meats?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of ham, you can use turkey, chicken, or even beef lunch meat. Just choose a flavor you enjoy, as this will change the overall taste of the roll ups.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make the recipe dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or hummus. Just ensure that any substitute you choose has a similar texture for optimal rolling.
Can I Prepare Ham Roll Ups in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the roll ups a day ahead of time. Simply cover them tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To enjoy them again, simply eat them cold or let them sit at room temperature for a bit before serving.