If you ever find yourself staring into the fridge, wondering what easy lunch idea can satisfy both your cravings and your family’s pickiness, let me introduce you to Ham and Cheese Roll Ups. These delightful tortilla roll ups are not only simple to make, but they also double as the ultimate pinwheel appetizers for parties, potlucks, or just a cozy movie night at home.

As a mom who juggles between blog deadlines and my kids’ after-school chaos, recipes like this are my lifeline. They require minimal effort but deliver maximum flavor and satisfaction. Whether you’re in need of a quick bite between Zoom meetings or a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, these roll ups have you covered.

Why You’ll Love These Ham and Cheese Roll Ups

First off, they’re foolproof. You don’t need to be a kitchen wizard to whip up these creamy, cheesy delights. The combination of seasoned cream cheese, deli ham, and Colby Jack all wrapped in a soft tortilla is pure comfort. Plus, they’re make-ahead friendly and portable, which makes them a go-to for busy moms and professionals looking for tasty, easy lunch ideas.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 large tortillas (burrito size)
226g block of cream cheese, room temperature
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano
12 slices extra thin Colby Jack cheese
12 slices deli ham
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step: How to Make Ham and Cheese Roll Ups

In a small bowl, whip the room-temperature cream cheese until it’s fluffy and smooth.
Add freshly ground black pepper and dried oregano to the cream cheese. Mix until the spices are evenly distributed.
Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous layer of the seasoned cream cheese mixture across the entire tortilla.
Arrange 6 slices of Colby Jack cheese evenly over the cream cheese.
Layer 6 slices of deli ham on top of the cheese, ensuring full coverage.
Starting at one edge, tightly roll up the tortilla, keeping all those delicious fillings intact.
Slice the rolled tortilla into 12 even pinwheels, about 1.3 to 2.5 cm thick.
Repeat the process with the second tortilla and remaining ingredients.
Arrange the roll ups on a platter, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve!

Cooking Tips for Perfect Pinwheel Appetizers

Room-Temperature Cream Cheese is Key: Cold cream cheese will tear your tortillas. Let it sit out for a bit until it’s spreadable.
Tight Roll = Clean Slices: The tighter you roll, the prettier your pinwheels will look.
Use a Sharp Knife: A dull knife will squish the roll ups. Serrated knives work great for a clean cut.
Make Ahead, But Not Too Far Ahead: These are best when served fresh, but you can prep them a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge.
Switch It Up: Want variety? Swap Colby Jack for Swiss or turkey for ham. These roll ups are forgiving and versatile!

From My Kitchen to Yours: A Little Story

I still remember the first time I made these Ham and Cheese Roll Ups. It was a last-minute “what can I throw together?” moment before a school bake sale (because of course I signed up, and of course I forgot!). These little tortilla roll ups saved me. Not only were they a hit with the kids, but even the teachers were sneaking seconds. Since then, they’ve become a staple in my kitchen—not just for events, but for lazy Sunday lunches and road trip snacks. My kids now call them “Mom’s Magic Roll Ups.” Not bad, right?

What to Serve with Ham and Cheese Roll Ups

These roll ups pair beautifully with a crisp garden salad or a side of fresh fruit for a light lunch. If you’re going for a party spread, add some veggie sticks and a creamy ranch dip to round it out. For a heartier meal, serve them alongside a warm bowl of tomato soup. Trust me, dunking these pinwheel appetizers into soup is a game-changer. And don’t forget a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water to wash it all down. Simple, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion.

How to Store Leftover Roll Ups

If you find yourself with leftovers (which rarely happens in my house), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Pro tip: If the edges dry out a bit, just wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften them up. However, these roll ups don’t freeze well due to the cream cheese, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh or within a day or two.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ham and Cheese Roll Ups

Can I use different types of tortillas?

Absolutely! Whole wheat, spinach, or even tomato basil tortillas add a fun twist and extra flavor.

What other fillings can I try?

Feel free to get creative! Turkey, roast beef, or even roasted veggies make fantastic substitutes.

Can these be made ahead for parties?

Yes! Prepare them a few hours in advance and keep them chilled until serving time. Just avoid making them the night before, as the tortillas might get soggy.

How can I keep them from unrolling?

A tight roll is crucial. Also, placing them seam-side down on the platter helps keep them intact.

These Ham and Cheese Roll Ups are more than just an appetiser; they’re a lifesaver for busy days and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So next time you need an easy lunch idea that won’t disappoint, give these a whirl. Your taste buds (and your sanity) will thank you.

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Cheese Roll Ups

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Author: Amanda Thompson
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 24 roll ups (serves 6 as appetizer portions) 1x

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Description

These Ham and Cheese Roll Ups are the perfect quick and easy pinwheel appetizers, ideal for busy days, lunchboxes, parties, or casual snacks. Made with soft tortillas, seasoned cream cheese, Colby Jack, and deli ham, they deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. Make-ahead friendly and versatile, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale

2 large tortillas (burrito size)
226g block of cream cheese, room temperature
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano
12 slices extra thin Colby Jack cheese
12 slices deli ham
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

In a small bowl, whip the cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
Mix in black pepper and oregano until well combined.
Lay a tortilla flat and spread an even layer of the seasoned cream cheese over it.
Place 6 slices of Colby Jack cheese on top of the cream cheese.
Layer 6 slices of deli ham over the cheese.
Roll the tortilla tightly, keeping the filling intact.
Slice into 12 even pinwheels (1.3 to 2.5 cm thick).
Repeat with the second tortilla and remaining ingredients.
Arrange roll ups on a platter, garnish with parsley, and serve.

Notes

Always use room-temperature cream cheese to prevent tearing the tortillas.

A tight roll ensures clean, neat slices.

Use a sharp serrated knife for best results.

You can make them a few hours in advance but serve the same day for best texture.

Variations include swapping ham for turkey or Colby Jack for Swiss cheese.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Entrées
Method: No-Cook / Assemble
Cuisine: American

Ham and Cheese Roll Ups: The Perfect Pinwheel Appetizer for Busy Days