Ham & Cream Cheese Pickle Roll Ups

These Ham & Cream Cheese Pickle Roll Ups are a quick, creamy, crunchy, and savory snack made with deli ham, smooth cream cheese, and tangy dill pickles. They’re perfect for party appetizers, lunchboxes, game-day snacks, or a low-carb treat.

Prep Time: 10 minutes Chilling Time: 20–30 minutes Total Time: 30–40 minutes Servings: 6 Yield: 12 roll-ups

Ingredients

• 6 slices deli ham, thinly sliced

• 6 oz (170 g) cream cheese, softened

• 3–4 medium dill pickles, whole or spears

• 1 tablespoon sour cream (optional, for a smoother filling)

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

• Salt, to taste, if needed

Instructions

1. Prepare the cream cheese filling. Place the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl. Add sour cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, black pepper, and chopped chives. Mix until smooth and creamy.

2. Prepare the pickles. Pat the dill pickles thoroughly dry with paper towels. If using whole pickles, cut them into spears that fit the width of your ham slices.

3. Spread the filling. Lay the ham slices flat on a clean cutting board. Spread a thin, even layer of cream cheese mixture over each slice, leaving a small border around the edges.

4. Add the pickles. Place one pickle spear near the edge of each ham slice. If your pickles are small, use enough pieces to cover the length of the slice.

5. Roll tightly. Starting from the edge with the pickle, roll each ham slice firmly around the filling and pickle. Press gently to help the roll-ups hold their shape.

6. Chill the roll-ups. Place the rolls seam-side down on a plate or in an airtight container. Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to make slicing easier.

7. Slice and serve. Trim the ends if desired, then cut each roll into two bite-sized pieces. Arrange on a serving platter and garnish with extra chopped chives.

Tips for Perfect Roll-Ups

• Dry the pickles well to prevent the cream cheese filling from becoming watery.

• Use softened cream cheese for easy spreading.

• Choose thinly sliced ham that is large enough to wrap around the pickle.

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or finely chopped green onions.

• Make ahead by preparing the rolls up to 24 hours in advance and keeping them covered in the refrigerator.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Not recommended, because the cream cheese may become watery and change texture after thawing.

• Serving: Keep refrigerated until ready to serve. Avoid leaving the roll-ups at room temperature for more than 2 hours, or 1 hour in temperatures above 90°F (32°C).

Nutrition Information

Approximate values per serving, assuming 2 roll-ups per serving and 6 servings total.

• Calories: 150

• Protein: 7 g

• Total Fat: 12 g

• Saturated Fat: 7 g

• Carbohydrates: 2 g

• Fiber: 0 g

• Total Sugars: 1 g

• Net Carbohydrates: 2 g

• Cholesterol: 40 mg

• Sodium: 550 mg

Nutrition values vary depending on the brand of ham, cream cheese, and pickles used.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1: Can I make Ham & Cream Cheese Pickle Roll Ups ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare them up to 24 hours ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Slice just before serving for the neatest presentation.

Q2: Which pickles work best?

Dill pickles are ideal because their tangy flavor balances the rich cream cheese. You can also use garlic dill pickles or spicy pickles.

Q3: Can I make these roll-ups keto-friendly?

Yes. They are naturally low in carbohydrates. Choose ham without added sugar and check the labels on your cream cheese and pickles.

Q4: How can I keep the roll-ups from falling apart?

Pat the pickles dry, avoid overfilling, roll the ham tightly, and chill before slicing.

Q5: Can I add other ingredients?

Absolutely! Finely chopped jalapeños, shredded cheddar cheese, fresh dill, or green onions make delicious additions.

Q6: Are these roll-ups gluten-free?

They can be gluten-free if all ingredients, especially the deli ham and mustard, are labeled gluten-free. Check product labels to confirm.

Q7: Can I use turkey instead of ham?

Yes. Thinly sliced deli turkey works well and gives the roll-ups a milder flavor.

Q8: Are these suitable for a party platter?

Definitely! Slice each roll into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a platter with cherry tomatoes, cheese cubes, and fresh vegetables.

Recipe Notes

• Diet: Low-carb and keto-friendly, depending on ingredients.

• Allergens: Contains milk. Check processed ham, mustard, and other packaged ingredients for additional allergens.

• Nuts: No nuts are required in this recipe. Check ingredient labels for potential cross-contact if preparing food for someone with a nut allergy.

• Quality and safety: Keep refrigerated and serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.

Enjoy these creamy, tangy Ham & Cream Cheese Pickle Roll Ups as an easy snack or crowd-pleasing appetizer!