Classic Ham & Cream Cheese Roll-Ups are a quick snack you can make in about five minutes. Soft cream cheese, savory ham, and fresh herbs give each bite a simple, fresh taste. You do not need to cook anything.
If you enjoy easy cheese dishes, try this creamy baked cottage cheese recipe when you have time for a warm snack.
Why Make This Recipe
These roll-ups use just a few ingredients and take very little work. Make a few for a quick snack or fill a platter for guests. You can leave them whole or cut them into small bites.
The ham adds plenty of flavor, while the cream cheese makes the filling smooth. Fresh chives or parsley add a bright finish.
How to Make Classic Ham & Cream Cheese Roll-Ups
Start with cream cheese that is soft enough to spread. Lay the ham flat, add the filling, and roll each slice tightly. The prep takes about five minutes if your cream cheese is already soft.
Ingredients
- Deli ham slices
- Cream cheese, softened
- Fresh herbs, such as chives or parsley, finely chopped
- Black pepper, optional
Use enough cream cheese to cover each ham slice with an even layer. Leave a small gap along the edges so the filling stays inside.
Directions
- Lay each slice of deli ham flat on a clean plate or cutting board. Pat it dry if it feels wet.
- Spread a layer of cream cheese over each slice.
- Sprinkle the fresh herbs over the cream cheese. Add a little black pepper if you like.
- Roll the ham tightly, starting from one end.
- Leave the rolls whole or slice them into bite-sized pieces. For cleaner cuts, chill them for 15–20 minutes first.
- Serve chilled on a platter.
How to Serve Classic Ham & Cream Cheese Roll-Ups
Place the roll-ups seam-side down on a plate to help them stay closed. Scatter a few extra herbs over the top.
Serve them with crackers, cucumber slices, or cherry tomatoes. You can also add them to a snack plate with fresh fruit. Use small toothpicks for party bites, and remove them before serving to young children.
How to Store Classic Ham & Cream Cheese Roll-Ups
Keep the roll-ups in a sealed container in the fridge at 40°F (4°C) or below. For the best texture, eat them within two days. Follow any earlier use-by date or storage limit on your opened ham.
Do not leave them at room temperature for more than two hours, or one hour when the temperature is above 90°F (32°C). Freezing is not ideal because the cream cheese may become grainy after thawing.
Tips to Make Classic Ham & Cream Cheese Roll-Ups
- Choose ham slices that are wide enough to roll and thick enough not to tear.
- Soften the cream cheese just enough to spread it easily.
- Dry the herbs after washing so they do not make the filling wet.
- Avoid adding too much filling, which can squeeze out as you roll.
- Use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts for neat pieces.
- Taste before adding salt. Ham and cream cheese already contain salt.
Variation
Swap plain cream cheese for a garlic-and-herb spread for extra flavor. You can also add a thin pickle spear for crunch. Pat the pickle dry first, then place it near one edge before rolling.
For a different version, use deli turkey instead of ham.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Make them the night before and keep them covered in the fridge. Slice them shortly before serving for a neat finish.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes. Use a spreadable low-fat cream cheese if you prefer. The filling may be slightly softer than one made with full-fat cream cheese.
Which herbs work best?
Chives and parsley both work well. Dill is another good choice, especially if you add a pickle.
Why do my roll-ups fall apart?
You may have used too much filling or rolled the ham too loosely. Use a thinner layer of cream cheese, roll firmly, and chill before slicing.
Conclusion
Classic Ham & Cream Cheese Roll-Ups make snack time easy with a few simple ingredients and no cooking. Keep them chilled and serve them whole or in small bites. If you would rather order food in Chicago, you can browse the Jubilee Juice & Grill delivery menu for other meal options.
Classic Ham & Cream Cheese Roll-Ups
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 slices Deli ham slices Choose wide slices that are thick enough not to tear.
- 8 oz Cream cheese, softened Soften just enough to spread easily.
- 2 tablespoons Fresh herbs, such as chives or parsley, finely chopped Dill can also be used, especially with added pickle.
- to taste Black pepper, optional Add for extra seasoning if desired.
Instructions
Preparation
- Lay each slice of deli ham flat on a clean plate or cutting board. Pat it dry if it feels wet.
- Spread a layer of cream cheese evenly over each slice.
- Sprinkle fresh herbs over the cream cheese. Add black pepper if desired.
- Roll the ham tightly, starting from one end.
- Leave the rolls whole or slice them into bite-sized pieces. For cleaner cuts, chill for 15-20 minutes first.
Serving
- Place roll-ups seam-side down on a plate. Scatter extra herbs over the top.
- Serve with crackers, cucumber slices, or cherry tomatoes. Use small toothpicks for party bites.
Storage
- Store roll-ups in a sealed container in the fridge at 40°F (4°C) or below. Consume within two days for best texture.
- Avoid leaving at room temperature for more than two hours.