Cream Cheese Turkey Roll Ups: The Perfect Party Appetizer

With only 10 minutes of prep, these turkey and cheese roll ups are the easiest party appetizer or packed lunch recipe. A fun way to switch up your everyday sandwich!

Im all about easy lunches, because who has time to whip together something complicated in the middle of the day? And while Im lucky enough to work-from-home, I totally get that most people need to pack a lunch for themselves or their kids.

Thats why Im bringing you these super easy turkey and cheese roll ups- its your classic sandwich, but in a fun new style. Bonus: its not going to fall apart on you.

These roll ups are also perfect for getting your kids involved! As a dietitian, we always talk about the benefits of involving kids in meal-prep. Not only do they get to learn food skills, but its a great way to expose them to new foods and build interest.

Anyway, hopefully by now youre convinced to give this recipe a try- its simple, but satisfyingly delicious.

In a medium mixing bowl, add cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cheddar cheese, grated carrots and yogurt.

Add half of the cream cheese filling into the center of each tortilla. Use a knife to evenly spread the cream cheese filling around the tortilla (making sure to leave the outer edges free of any toppings).

To make gluten-free: Use gluten-free tortillas. I like Udis, as they stay together the best.

To make dairy-free: Use a dairy-free cream cheese, cheddar, and yogurt. You can also try a vegan mayo instead of yogurt.

These turkey and cheese roll ups are pretty customizable- switch up the type of deli meats, cheese, or veggies. I would just keep in mind that “flatter” items will roll easier, so stick with veggies like diced peppers, other greens, etc.

Another fun way to play with the flavour is by adding a spread like hummus, pesto or guacamole.

If you are serving these at a party or meal prepping them for lunches, I recommend to leave them tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge prior to serving (and slicing). They can be left in the fridge for up to 5 days.

For best results, tightly wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and allow it to chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour before cutting and serving. This helps the cream cheese harden and keeps the roll ups together. However, this step is optional if you would prefer to eat right away.

Yes! They contain carbohydrates, protein and fat (and even vegetables) so they are the perfect easy lunch. To adjust for different hunger levels, I would pair them with a side like this quinoa salad or veggies and hummus. You could also add a snack like fruit or energy balls.

Nope! If you are in a time crunch, feel free to slice them right after preparing them. I recommend wrapping tightly in a tortilla and chilling for at least one hour as it allows the cream cheese to harden slightly and the tortilla to absorb the moisture making it easier to slice them and holding the roll ups together more!

Cream cheese turkey roll ups are the perfect easy appetizer for any party or get-together. They are simple to make customizable and always a crowd favorite. In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know to make these tasty bite-sized treats.

Cream cheese turkey roll ups are made by spreading flavored cream cheese onto slices of deli turkey and then rolling them up. The cream cheese acts as the glue to hold the roll ups together. Once assembled, they can be sliced into pinwheels and served as an appetizer

Cream cheese turkey roll ups are a great way to use up leftover turkey from a holiday meal. They are also budget-friendly since you likely already have most of the ingredients on hand. The flavors within the cream cheese can be switched up to suit any taste. This versatility makes them ideal for pleasing a crowd.

Benefits of Making Your Own

While you can purchase pre-made cream cheese turkey roll ups at warehouse stores like Costco, there are some great benefits to making them at home

  • Customization: When you make them yourself, you can pick your favorite flavors. Try different herbs, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and more in the filling.

  • Cost savings: Homemade is considerably cheaper per portion compared to store-bought.

  • Freshness: There’s no concern over how long the store-bought ones may have been sitting around. Homemade guarantees freshness.

  • Fun activity: Roll ups are easy enough that kids can help assemble them (with supervision of course). It’s a fun cooking project for families.

How to Make Cream Cheese Turkey Roll Ups

Making cream cheese turkey roll ups at home is easy. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Ingredients

  • Deli turkey slices
  • Cream cheese (softened)
  • Assorted mix-ins such as chopped veggies, herbs, nuts, etc.
  • Tortillas or lavash

Instructions

  1. Lay out your tortilla or lavash flat. Spread a layer of softened cream cheese evenly over the surface.

  2. Sprinkle your desired mix-ins over the cream cheese. Try combinations like chopped green onions and walnuts or dried cranberries and chopped parsley.

  3. Layer sliced deli turkey evenly over the cream cheese.

  4. Starting at one end, neatly roll up the tortilla. The cream cheese will act as the glue to hold it together.

  5. Use a serrated knife to gently cut the rolled up tortilla into pinwheels.

  6. Repeat assembly with remaining ingredients.

  7. Arrange pinwheels on a platter and serve chilled.

Storage

Leftover cream cheese turkey roll ups will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for longer term storage.

Flavor Combination Ideas

The great thing about cream cheese turkey roll ups is that you can customize the flavors to suit any taste or occasion. Here are some delicious combos to try:

  • Cranberry & Walnut: Chopped cranberries, walnuts, scallions mixed into the cream cheese.

  • Fiesta: Diced red onion, peppers, olives, cilantro, and feta or queso fresco cheese.

  • Caprese: Diced tomatoes, fresh basil, balsamic glaze or reduction.

  • Sweet & Spicy: Chopped mango, red onion, cilantro, and a drizzle of hot sauce.

  • Greek: Feta cheese, kalamata olives, red onion, fresh dill.

  • Pesto: Homemade or store-bought pesto swirled into the cream cheese.

  • Southwest: Roasted red peppers, corn, cilantro, cumin, chili powder.

The options are endless when creating your own signature cream cheese turkey roll up flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Cream cheese turkey roll ups make great party appetizers because they are bite-sized and easy to eat. Here are some serving tips:

  • Arrange the roll ups on a tiered platter or serving tray. Garnish with fresh herbs.

  • Provide cocktail picks so guests can easily pick them up.

  • Serve alongside a selection of dipping sauces like guacamole, ranch, salsa, or hummus.

  • Include them as part of a sandwich/wrap station with an assortment of breads, tortillas, and other fillings.

  • Skewer them onto frilly toothpicks for elegant hors d’oeuvres.

  • For a pretty presentation, serve them open-faced on endive leaves or cucumber slices.

Why Cream Cheese Turkey Roll Ups Are a Crowd Pleaser

With their versatility and appetizing flavors, it’s easy to see why cream cheese turkey roll ups are always a big hit at parties and potlucks. Here’s a summary of what makes them so popular:

  • Customizable: With so many possible flavor combos, there’s something for everyone.

  • Portion control: Bite-size pieces make it easy to nibble without overindulging.

  • Appealing texture: The smooth cream cheese and tender turkey is pleasing to the palate.

  • Nutritious: Turkey provides lean protein while veggies add vitamins, fiber and freshness.

  • Satisfying: They have a perfect balance of protein, fat, and carbs to stave off hunger.

  • Kid-friendly: The pinwheel shape and flavors entice picky eaters but are still sophisticated enough for adults.

  • Make-ahead convenience: They can be assembled 1-2 days in advance of serving.

With minimal time and effort, cream cheese turkey roll ups are sure to be a crowd-pleasing appetizer for your next party or gathering. Now that you’re armed with tips and inspiration, it’s time to start rolling!

cream cheese turkey roll ups

More Meal Prep Lunch Recipes

Here are some more good meal prep lunch options for work or school!

PS. I love seeing my recipes in action! If you decide to make these turkey and cheese roll ups, dont forget to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram- @nourishedbynic or leave a comment and rating below letting me know how you liked it!

cream cheese turkey roll ups

Turkey Roll Ups (Costco Copycat)

FAQ

How long are pinwheels good for in the fridge?

Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container for up to two days. Any longer and pinwheels tend to get soggy.

What is a turkey roll made of?

Rolled turkey is comprised of two turkey breasts bound together using bacon and string before roasting. Two 900g turkey breasts should sufficiently feed six of you, but if there’s a smaller number of guests, you can easily use it for leftovers the next day too.

How many calories are in a turkey and cheese roll up?

Nutrition Facts
Nutrient
Value
Calories
310
Fats
16g
Saturated fats
6g
Trans fats
0g

How do you make Turkey cream cheese roll ups?

To make the turkey cream cheese roll ups, start with a large spinach wrap. Spread a thin layer of cream cheese across the tortilla. Arrange two slices of Foster Farms® Oven Roasted Turkey Breast on top of the cream cheese. Sprinkle with sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, and grated sharp cheddar. Tightly roll up the tortilla.

How do you make a turkey sandwich with cream cheese?

Instructions 1. In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, red onion, celery, walnuts, parsley, mayonnaise, oregano, salt, and pepper. 2. Stir until well combined. 3. Place a slice of turkey breast on a cutting board. Spread 1 to 2 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture on top of the turkey. 4.

Can cream cheese turkey Roll Ups be served as an appetizer?

Answer: Cream cheese turkey roll ups can be served as an appetizer or snack. They can be served on a platter with toothpicks or skewers, or they can be arranged on a charcuterie board with other meats, cheeses, and vegetables. cream cheese turkey roll ups are a delicious and easy appetizer that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Can cream cheese turkey Roll Ups be frozen?

Answer: Cream cheese turkey roll ups can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the roll-ups in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer the roll-ups to a freezer bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

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