Ham and Pickle Roll Ups are a classic retro appetizer that brings back memories of parties at Grandma’s house. A flavored cream cheese filling is spread on a savory ham slice, wrapped around crunchy dill pickles, and sliced into bite-sized pieces. They’re easy to make and great for parties, holidays, and potlucks. The best appetizer for low-carb eating!

Vertical image of ham and pickle roll ups served on a white textured plate, showing sliced dill pickles wrapped with cream cheese and ham.

These little roll-ups always remind me of family parties growing up. There was usually a big tray in the fridge, waiting to be brought out for everyone to snack on, and somehow, they disappeared almost immediately every single time. Kids love them! I used to grab a couple before the party even started because I loved the combo of creamy filling, salty ham, and crunchy pickle. Even now, whenever I make them, they instantly bring back those fun family gathering memories.

Depending on where you live, you may know these by another name. They’re often called Pickle Roll Ups, Pickle Wraps, or even “Midwest Sushi” and “Minnesota Sushi.” They became especially popular throughout the American Midwest as an easy potluck and party appetizer because they’re inexpensive, simple to make, and feed a crowd. No matter what you call them, they’ve been a favorite at gatherings for generations.

Ingredients

The full printable recipe card with measurements and instructions is found at the bottom of the post.

Cream cheese: Make sure it’s fully softened so it blends smoothly and spreads easily without tearing the ham. I use regular full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture, but you can also try reduced-fat cream cheese. It will make the filling a little softer.
Mayonnaise: Use full-fat mayo for the best flavor and texture.
Dijon mustard: Gives the filling a little tangy kick.
Deli ham: Thinly sliced ham rolls up the easiest. Pat away excess moisture if the slices seem wet.
Whole dill pickles: Dry the pickles well with a paper towel before rolling so the filling stays thick and creamy.
Black pepper: Add to taste depending on how peppery you like the filling. The pickles already add plenty of flavor and saltiness.

How to Make Ham and Pickle Roll Ups

Step One: In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, mustard, and black pepper with an electric mixer until smooth.
Step Two: Lay a piece of ham flat on a cutting board and spread a thin, even layer of the cream cheese mixture over it.

Collage of making filling in a bowl and spreading on a ham slice.

Step Three: Place a pickle at one end of the ham slice and roll it up tightly.
Step Four: Repeat with the remaining ham and pickles.

Step Five: Wrap the rolls tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Step Six: Slice into bite-sized pieces just before serving.

Collage of wrapping the roll ups in plastic wrap.

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Variations and Substitutions

Use flavored cream cheese: Try chive and onion, garlic herb, or jalapeño cream cheese for extra flavor without extra work.
Swap the ham: Turkey, roast beef, or even salami work well if you want to change things up.
Make them spicy: Add a few dashes of hot sauce, chopped jalapeños, or use spicy pickles in the filling.
Use pickle spears: Instead of whole pickles, use pickle spears for smaller roll-ups that are easier to bite into.
Add fresh herbs: Stir chopped dill or chives into the cream cheese mixture for a fresh flavor boost.
Try sweet pickles: If you prefer a sweeter flavor, use sweet gherkins or bread-and-butter pickles instead of dill pickles.
Skip the mayo: You can replace the mayonnaise with sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier filling.

Macro photo of a ham and pickle roll up secured with a decorative toothpick, showing layers of deli ham, cream cheese, and dill pickle.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate: Store the roll-ups covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For the best texture, keep them whole and slice just before serving.
Make ahead: You can prepare the rolls a day in advance and keep them tightly wrapped in plastic wrap until ready to slice and serve.
Freezing not recommended: Cream cheese can become grainy, and the pickles lose their crunch after thawing, so these are best enjoyed fresh.

Close-up view of ham and pickle roll ups with creamy cheese filling and dill pickle centers, arranged tightly on a white plate.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Chill before slicing: Cold roll-ups hold together better and slice much more neatly.
Use a sharp knife: It gives cleaner cuts and helps keep the filling from squishing out.
Don’t overfill: A thin layer of filling works best and keeps the roll-ups easy to roll.
Overlap smaller ham slices: If your deli ham is small or thin, slightly overlap two slices before spreading the filling.
Trim the ends: Slice off the ends before serving for an extra-neat platter.
Add toothpicks for serving: Toothpicks make them easier to grab at parties and potlucks.
Pat the pickles dry well: Extra moisture can make the filling slippery and harder to keep rolled tightly.

Pickle Appetizers

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Plate of ham and pickle roll ups sliced into bite-sized appetizers, featuring dill pickles wrapped in cream cheese and deli ham on a white serving plate.

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