If you’re looking for a low-carb, high-protein snack that’s just as delicious as it is simple, these Cream Cheese Ham Roll Ups are your new go-to. Made with only a handful of ingredients—thin slices of savory deli ham, creamy herbed cream cheese, and a crisp, tangy pickle center—these roll ups are bursting with flavor and texture. The chives in the cream cheese add a hint of brightness, while the garlic powder offers just enough punch to make every bite irresistible.
These ham roll ups are ideal for entertaining, lunchboxes, or keto-friendly snacking. Whether you slice them into pinwheels for an elegant appetizer or enjoy them whole as a satisfying lunch wrap, they’re incredibly versatile. Best of all, they take only 10 minutes to make and require no cooking. Perfect for hot days, quick gatherings, or whenever you need a fast, crowd-pleasing dish that’s loaded with flavor and nutrition.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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2 teaspoons garlic powder
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
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12 slices deli ham (thin and rectangular)
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6 small dill pickles (cut in half lengthwise)
Directions:
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In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, garlic powder, and chopped chives. Mix until smooth.
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Lay a slice of ham flat on a clean surface. Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the ham.
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Place half a dill pickle on one end of the ham slice, then roll tightly into a pinwheel.
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Repeat with remaining ham, cream cheese mixture, and pickles.
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Slice into bite-sized pinwheels or leave whole for wraps. Chill before serving if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: 90 kcal per roll | Servings: 12 rolls
A Low-Carb Classic with Timeless Appeal
Cream Cheese Ham Roll Ups are a beloved appetizer and snack that’s been around for generations, especially popular in American Midwestern cuisine. Often spotted at potlucks, picnics, lunchboxes, and game day spreads, these simple roll-ups are more than just a nostalgic bite—they’re a testament to how minimal ingredients can yield maximum flavor. Traditionally made with just ham, cream cheese, and pickles, this easy-to-prep snack has endured because of its balanced combination of savory, creamy, and tangy elements. The addition of fresh chives and garlic powder in this version elevates the flavor, offering a modern twist while keeping the classic heart of the dish intact.
What makes this recipe so special is its incredible versatility. It doesn’t matter if you’re following a keto diet, preparing appetizers for a party, or packing a quick protein-rich snack for work—these ham roll ups cater to every lifestyle. They’re also gluten-free and low in carbs, making them accessible for those with dietary restrictions. With no cooking required, they’re perfect for beginners or anyone who needs something quick, tasty, and fuss-free.
The Benefits: Simple, Satisfying, and Nutritious
One of the standout qualities of these ham roll ups is how effortlessly they combine taste and nutrition. Each bite is packed with protein, thanks to the ham and cream cheese base. This high-protein content makes them particularly satiating, which is great for maintaining energy levels throughout the day or curbing cravings between meals. The cream cheese offers healthy fats for sustained satiety, while the pickles provide a low-calorie burst of flavor and probiotics—supporting digestion and gut health.
They’re also perfect for portion control. Since the roll-ups are made individually, you can make just a few or a whole platter depending on the occasion. This makes them ideal for meal prepping, entertaining, or creating balanced snack boxes. Additionally, they store well in the fridge for a couple of days, retaining their texture and flavor when wrapped tightly, so you can prepare them ahead of time without sacrificing quality.
Why This Version Is the Best
What sets this particular recipe apart from other versions of ham roll ups is the attention to flavor layering. Instead of plain cream cheese, we’re enhancing it with chopped chives and a dash of garlic powder. This small tweak introduces a depth of flavor that balances beautifully with the salty ham and tangy pickle, creating a richer, more complex bite.
The choice of ingredients is also key. Using high-quality deli ham ensures a tender, savory wrap that doesn’t overpower the creamy filling. The pickles—preferably dill—cut through the richness of the cream cheese and bring in a refreshing crunch that gives each roll a satisfying texture. And the chives not only brighten the flavor but add a touch of color that makes these roll ups more visually appealing.
Perfect for Every Occasion
These roll ups are endlessly adaptable. Hosting a game night or party? Slice them into pinwheels for an easy finger food platter. Need a quick school lunch or picnic snack? Leave them whole and wrap them up in foil or parchment. They can be customized with different fillings too—try adding sliced bell peppers, cucumber strips, or even avocado for extra flavor and nutrition. For a spicier version, a smear of horseradish or a dash of hot sauce in the cream cheese mixture adds a pleasant kick.
Because they require zero cooking, they’re also a fun recipe to prepare with kids. The assembly is simple enough for little hands, making it a great way to get children involved in the kitchen while also introducing them to basic food prep skills. The visual appeal of the rolled shape and the contrasting colors also makes them enticing for picky eaters.
A Crowd Favorite with Minimal Effort
These ham roll ups are the type of recipe that delivers big results with little time or energy spent. They’re ready in under 10 minutes, don’t require any special equipment, and are almost impossible to mess up. Whether you’re making them for a low-key snack or a fancy appetizer spread, they’re always a hit.
Not only are they delicious, but they’re also visually charming. When sliced into pinwheels and arranged on a platter, they resemble little swirls of color—pink ham on the outside, creamy white filling, and a crisp green pickle center. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top and a side of dipping mustard or ranch dressing, and you’ve got a professional-looking appetizer that’s as pretty as it is flavorful.
Great for Special Diets
As more people seek out low-carb, high-protein, and gluten-free snack options, ham roll ups fit perfectly into modern dietary preferences. They’re keto-friendly and diabetic-friendly due to their low glycemic impact. For anyone avoiding grains, they offer a naturally gluten-free alternative to traditional wraps or sandwiches without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
If you want to make this dish even more diet-conscious, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative to suit your nutritional goals. You can also experiment with turkey or chicken slices instead of ham if you’re watching sodium intake or prefer a leaner protein source.
Final Thoughts
Cream Cheese Ham Roll Ups are a smart, satisfying, and delicious option whether you’re snacking solo or feeding a crowd. With their balance of flavor, ease of preparation, and wide appeal, they’re truly a no-fail recipe that belongs in every home cook’s rotation. Quick to make, low in carbs, and endlessly customizable—what’s not to love?
These roll ups are a reminder that great food doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, it’s the simplest combinations that become your go-to favorites for years to come.
Conclusion
Cream Cheese Ham Roll Ups with Pickles and Chives are the perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a snack that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. With their creamy, savory filling and crunchy, tangy core, these roll ups are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet, hosting a party, or just looking for a quick and healthy bite, this no-cook recipe delivers in every way. Easy to customize, make ahead, and store, it’s a reliable go-to for busy weekdays and special occasions alike. Their balanced texture and bold flavor make them a standout appetizer or snack that’s sure to impress every time.