Ham pickle roll ups are a simple no-cook appetizer or snack: a slice of deli ham spread with a layer of seasoned cream cheese, with a whole dill pickle (or pickle spear) rolled up inside it, then sliced crosswise into bite-sized pinwheels.
These pickle roll ups are one of my favorite make-ahead appetizers for busy days. I can prepare them in advance, chill them until serving time, and have an easy, crowd-pleasing snack ready in minutes.
Table of Contents
Pickle Roll Ups Recipe
Key Ingredients
Cream cheese does double duty as the glue that holds the roll together and the creamy, tangy layer that ties the ham and pickle into one bite. A thin, even spread is what lets the roll hold its shape once you slice it into pinwheels.
Dill pickle spears are the crunchy, briny center that makes these worth eating, cutting through the rich cream cheese with a sharp, salty snap. You should use firm dill spears, since sweet pickles turn the whole thing cloying and clash with the savory ham.
Deli ham wraps snugly around the pickle and rolls up tight without cracking. I always ask for it sliced thin at the deli counter, because the thick pre-packaged slices are stiff and split apart when you try to roll them.
Tips to Make It Perfect
Pat the pickle spears completely dry: Pickles carry a lot of surface brine, and that moisture makes the cream cheese slip and the rolls come apart. I press the spears between paper towels until they feel dry before anything gets wrapped around them.
Chill the rolls before you slice them: A firm, cold roll cuts into clean pinwheels, while a room-temperature one squishes and smears. Thirty minutes in the fridge sets the cream cheese so each slice holds together on the platter.
Use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts: Cream cheese builds up on the blade and drags through the next slice, tearing the ham.
Here’s how to make the pickle roll ups:
Pickle Roll Ups
Creamy, savory pickle roll ups made with cream cheese, deli ham, and dill pickle spears sliced into bite-sized pinwheels. A retro party appetizer that always disappears first.
Ingredients
- 8 ozcream cheese (softened)
- 8 slicesdeli ham (thinly sliced)
- 8small whole dill pickles (patted dry)
Instructions
- 1Lay each slice of ham flat and spread a thin, even layer of softened cream cheese over the surface.
- 2Place one whole dill pickle along one edge of each ham slice. Roll the ham tightly around the pickle, pressing gently so the cream cheese helps hold the roll together.
- 3Place the rolls seam-side down on a plate, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- 4Cut each roll into 1-inch pinwheels with a sharp knife.
- 5Arrange cut-side up on a platter and serve cold.
Nutrition per serving
📌 Notes
- Pat the pickle spears very dry. Excess moisture makes the cream cheese slide and the rolls fall apart.
- Soften the cream cheese fully so it spreads in a thin, even layer without tearing the ham.
- Chill the rolls before slicing. Cold rolls hold their shape and cut into clean pinwheels.
- Use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts for neat slices.
How to Pair
Pickle roll ups taste creamy, salty, tangy, and crisp. Their bold pickle flavor pairs well with savory party foods, fresh sides, and refreshing drinks. Here’s how to pair them:
- Sliders, chicken wings, or mini sausages are great for a hearty game-day spread.
- Serve them with deviled eggs, cheese cubes, and buttery crackers for an easy appetizer platter.
- Fresh grapes, apple slices, or crunchy vegetable sticks help balance the salty flavor
- Enjoy them with iced tea, lemonade, or a cold lager for a refreshing contrast.
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