Ham roll-ups are a fun and tasty snack! They are made with tasty ham slices wrapped around cream cheese and crunchy veggies. Perfect for parties or a quick lunch!
These little bites are great for munching while watching TV or serving at gatherings. I love making them because they’re simple yet always impress my friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Deli Ham: Thinly sliced deli ham is the star here, but prosciutto could add a lovely twist. If you’re watching your sodium, try low-sodium ham.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese keeps things creamy. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese, which can give a tangy flavor.
Cheese: I recommend mozzarella or Parmesan for great melting. However, you can also use cheddar or any cheese you prefer. Cheese lovers can layer both mozzarella and Parmesan!
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a nutritious crunch. If you don’t have it, substitute with arugula or even kale for a different flavor.
How Do I Get the Perfect Roll Ups Without Them Falling Apart?
Rolling them tightly is key. Start at one end and gently roll inward while keeping the filling in place. Use a small amount of cream cheese at the edges to help seal the roll-up, making it less likely to unroll during cooking.
- Ensure your ham slices are large enough to hold the filling; avoid deli ends.
- Don’t overstuff! A thin layer of cheese and a few spinach leaves work best.
- Cook seam-side down to help seal the edges as they brown.
Ham Roll Ups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Roll Ups:
- 12 slices of thinly sliced deli ham (or prosciutto)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves
For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or mixed dried herbs)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh rosemary leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful snack takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook, totaling roughly 25 minutes from start to finish. Quick and easy, perfect for a last-minute appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot enough to perfectly crisp the ham rolls!
2. Prepare the Ham Slices:
Lay the slices of ham flat on a clean surface, like a cutting board or countertop. Make sure they are not overlapping for even distribution of flavors.
3. Spread the Cream Cheese:
Using a butter knife or a small spatula, spread about 1 tablespoon of softened cream cheese evenly over each slice of ham. This creamy layer helps hold everything together!
4. Add the Cheese and Spinach:
Next, sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese over the cream cheese, followed by a few fresh spinach leaves on top.
5. Roll the Ham:
Now, it’s time to roll! Starting from one end, tightly roll each ham slice into a pinwheel shape, making sure to keep the filling inside as best as you can.
6. Sear in the Skillet:
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once hot, arrange the ham roll-ups seam side down in the skillet. Allow them to cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the bottom begins to brown and gets a little crispy.
7. Season Them Up:
Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the roll-ups for extra flavor. This is where the magic happens!
8. Bake to Perfection:
Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes. You want the cheese inside to melt and the edges of the ham to crisp up nicely.
9. Serving Suggestions:
Once done, remove from the oven and allow the roll-ups to cool for a few minutes. If you like, slice the larger rolls into bite-sized pieces for easy eating. Finally, garnish each piece with a fresh rosemary leaf for that lovely finishing touch.
Serve these flavorful and cheesy ham roll ups warm or at room temperature as a delightful appetizer or snack. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Ham?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for deli ham or prosciutto, you can use any thinly sliced cured meats like turkey or roast beef for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover ham roll-ups can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Can I Make These Roll Ups Vegetarian?
Yes! To create a vegetarian version, simply replace the ham with thinly sliced vegetables, like zucchini or roasted red peppers, keeping the cream cheese and cheese filling. You might want to add some herbs for extra flavor!
Can I Prepare These Roll Ups in Advance?
You can definitely prep these in advance! Assemble the roll-ups a day ahead, then cover and refrigerate. Just bake them right before serving for the best texture and flavor.
