Ham and Cream Cheese Tortilla Roll-Ups

Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or lunchbox staple? These Ham and Cream Cheese Tortilla Roll-Ups are exactly what you need. Creamy, tangy, savory, and perfectly bite-sized, they’re a delightful no-bake recipe that takes just minutes to prepare. A smooth blend of cream cheese, sharp cheddar, horseradish, and seasoning creates the perfect contrast to the salty ham and soft tortillas. These roll-ups are excellent for parties, picnics, kids’ snacks, or meal-prepped lunches. You can make them ahead of time and slice them into neat, satisfying spirals. Simple, tasty, and versatile—what’s not to love?

Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Chilling Time (Optional): 30 minutes

• Total Time: 15–45 minutes

• Servings: 24–30 pinwheels

Ingredients

For the Cream Cheese Spread:

• 225g (8 oz) cream cheese, at room temperature

• 40g (1/3 cup) sharp white cheddar cheese, finely shredded

• 15ml (1 tablespoon) mayonnaise

• 15ml (1 tablespoon) prepared horseradish

• 5ml (1 teaspoon) dried parsley

• 2.5ml (1/2 teaspoon) garlic powder

• 2.5ml (1/2 teaspoon) onion powder

• 2.5ml (1/2 teaspoon) salt

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For Assembly:

• 2–3 large flour tortillas (25–30 cm / 10–12 inch diameter)

• 285g (10 oz) thinly sliced ham

• Toothpicks (optional, for securing)

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Make the Cream Cheese Spread
   In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, horseradish, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.

2. Spread on Tortillas
   Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread about one-third of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the entire surface.

3. Add Ham
   Place slices of ham over the cream cheese layer, slightly overlapping to cover the surface completely.

4. Roll Tightly
   Starting from one edge, roll the tortilla up tightly into a log. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.

5. Chill (Optional but Recommended)
   Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and makes slicing cleaner.

6. Slice and Serve
   Remove plastic wrap and slice each roll into 1.5–2 cm (½–¾ inch) thick pieces. Secure each pinwheel with a toothpick if desired.

Nutritional Information (per pinwheel, approx. 30 total)

• Calories: 85

• Protein: 4g

• Fat: 6g

• Carbohydrates: 4g

• Fiber: 0.3g

• Sugar: 1g

• Sodium: 210mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

Tortilla roll-ups, also known as “pinwheels,” originated as convenient party snacks in North America, becoming especially popular in the 1990s. This version—using ham and cream cheese—is a classic combo that delivers comfort food nostalgia and modern flavor. Loved for their quick prep, adaptability, and no-cook simplicity, roll-ups remain a favorite for gatherings, lunchboxes, and potlucks.

Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in 15 minutes

• Great for make-ahead: Ideal for party planning or prepping lunch

• No cooking required: Perfect for summer or dorm-room recipes

• Customizable: Swap meats, cheeses, or seasonings easily

• Family-friendly: Kids and adults love the flavor and presentation

Health Benefits

• Protein-packed from ham and cheese

• Good source of calcium from dairy

• Low in sugar, making it a better choice than many prepackaged snacks

• Can be made lighter using low-fat or reduced-sodium alternatives

• Portable and portion-controlled, helping reduce overeating

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled as an appetizer for parties or picnics

• Add to a lunchbox with veggie sticks and fruit

• Arrange on a platter with olives, pickles, or cherry tomatoes

• Serve with dipping sauces like mustard, ranch, or aioli

• Add a salad and call it a no-cook summer dinner

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using cold cream cheese: It won’t spread evenly—always let it come to room temp.

• Too much filling: This makes rolling difficult and messy.

• Not chilling before slicing: Warm roll-ups can squish and fall apart.

• Using thin tortillas: They may crack—use soft, pliable ones.

• Overstuffing with ham: One even layer is best.

Pairing Recommendations

• Drinks: Light white wine, sparkling water with citrus, or iced tea

• Sides: Crunchy veggie sticks, fresh fruit salad, or chips and dip

• Soup Pairing: Tomato basil, chicken noodle, or broccoli cheddar

• Bread Alternative: Use wraps, spinach tortillas, or lavash for variation

Cooking Tips

• For extra flavor, mix fresh herbs into the cream cheese spread

• Use smoked ham or black forest ham for added depth

• A mandoline or cheese grater helps shred cheddar evenly

• Roll tightly and use plastic wrap to hold shape while chilling

• Slice with a sharp serrated knife to avoid squashing

Similar Recipes to Try

• Turkey and spinach tortilla pinwheels

• Roast beef and horseradish wrap rolls

• Chicken Caesar salad roll-ups

• Veggie pinwheels with hummus and spinach

• Smoked salmon and dill cream cheese wraps

Variations to Try

• Spicy: Add a dash of sriracha or chopped jalapeños

• Sweet & savory: Add a thin layer of fig or apricot jam

• Low-carb: Use lettuce leaves or low-carb tortillas

• Vegetarian: Omit ham and add roasted red peppers or cucumbers

• Keto-friendly: Use high-fat, low-carb tortillas and cream cheese

Ingredient Spotlight: Horseradish

Prepared horseradish is made from the root of the horseradish plant. It adds a punchy, tangy heat that elevates creamy mixtures like this spread. A little goes a long way, offering not just spice but also compounds that support sinus and respiratory health. You can find it in jars near condiments, and it stores well refrigerated.

Conclusion Paragraph

These ham and cream cheese tortilla roll-ups are a shining example of how a few simple ingredients can create something truly crave-worthy. Whether you’re preparing a party platter or need a fuss-free lunch solution, this recipe will not disappoint. It’s endlessly adaptable, undeniably delicious, and loved by all ages. Keep it in your go-to collection—you’ll find yourself making it for every occasion.

10 Comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, roll them up and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Chill for up to 24 hours before slicing.

2. How long do they keep in the fridge?
They’ll stay fresh in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

3. Can I freeze the roll-ups?
Freezing is not recommended—cream cheese changes texture when thawed.

4. What can I use instead of horseradish?
Try Dijon mustard or prepared mustard for a milder flavor.

5. Are these good for kids’ lunches?
Absolutely! Just skip the horseradish if your kids are sensitive to spice.

6. What other meats can I use?
Turkey, roast beef, pastrami, or even grilled chicken slices work great.

7. Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas?
Yes, just ensure they’re flexible and don’t crack while rolling.

8. Can I add vegetables?
Sure! Thin slices of cucumber, bell pepper, or spinach can add crunch and freshness.

9. How do I keep them from unrolling?
Chill before slicing and use toothpicks for extra hold during serving.

10. What cheeses pair well if I don’t have cheddar?
Swiss, Colby Jack, Pepper Jack, or Gouda are all excellent options.