Ham and Cheese Pinwheels mix cream cheese, Cheddar, bacon, ranch, and pepper. Spread on tortillas, add ham, roll, chill, and slice for an easy snack, lunch, or appetizer.
Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
Pinwheels are a total game-changer for lunch or snacks—way more fun than a basic sandwich! That cool swirl isn’t just for looks; you can fill them with whatever you’re craving.
They’re easy to grab and eat, making them perfect for lunchboxes or parties. Whether you’re meal-prepping or feeding a crowd, pinwheels keep things exciting!
Ham and Cheese Pinwheels Ingredients
- Cream cheese: Use full-fat for a richer, thicker texture. Soften it first for smooth mixing.
- Sharp Cheddar: Freshly grate for better flavor—pre-shredded has anti-caking agents that affect texture.
- Ranch seasoning: A packet keeps it simple! I recommend Hidden Valley® for the best flavor without too much salt (not sponsored).
- Bacon: Center-cut has more meat and less fat, but any cooked, crumbled bacon works.
- Red bell pepper: Chop small for even flavor and easier rolling.
- Deli ham: Thin slices roll better. Swap with any deli meat you like.
- Burrito-sized tortillas: Use fresh, soft ones—warm them up if needed.
Quick Tip
To save some time, use pre-cooked bacon in these Ham and Cheese Pinwheels. Alternatively, you can bake the bacon which is a lot less messy.
How To Make Ham And Cheese Pinwheels (Tips)
- Softening cream cheese: Let it soften so it mixes easily. To speed it up, microwave an unwrapped block for 15-20 seconds, flipping if needed.
- Mixing: A hand mixer makes mixing faster and smoother, but if you don’t have one, stir by hand until creamy.
- Grating cheese: A food processor saves time, but freshly shredded cheese has the best flavor.
- Prevent sogginess: Pat veggies dry before adding them so pinwheels don’t get soggy.
- Rolling: Roll tightly to keep fillings in place and get even slices.
- Cutting: Use a sharp, saw-toothed knife for clean cuts. Chilling before slicing helps.
- Flavor ideas: Try different cheeses, meats, or spreads to change up the flavor!
What To Serve Alongside Ham And Cheese Pinwheels
- Dips: Hummus, ranch, or guacamole add flavor.
- Veggies: Bell peppers, cucumbers, carrots, and celery add crunch.
- Fruit: Fresh fruit or fruit salad adds a sweet contrast.
- Chips: Potato chips, tortilla chips, or pretzels for extra crunch.
- Salads: Garden salads, pasta salad, or coleslaw make a filling side.
- Soup: A warm soup pairs well if pinwheels are the main dish.
More Easy Lunch Recipes:
- BBQ Chicken Sandwich Recipe in 15 minutes or less!
- Chicken Caesar Wrap with four ingredients
- Tuna Salad Wrap with crunchy veggies
- Air Fryer Sandwich made four different ways!
- Cucumber Sandwich with the best easy spread!
Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are a breeze to make! Cream cheese, Cheddar, bacon, ranch, and red pepper spread on tortillas, topped with ham, rolled up, chilled, and sliced into perfect bite-sized snacks. Great for lunch, snacks, or appetizers!
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 (8-ounce) package full-fat, brick-style cream cheese softened, see note 1
- 1 cup sharp Cheddar cheese freshly shredded
- 1 tablespoon dry ranch mix see note 2
- 6 slices center-cut bacon cooked and crumbled (or use microwave bacon!)
- 1/3 cup diced red pepper
- 1/2 pound thinly sliced deli ham
- 3 large (12-inch) burrito tortillas spinach or flour
Instructions
- Combine softened cream cheese, freshly shredded Cheddar cheese, dry ranch mix, cooked and crumbled bacon, and diced red pepper. Use a hand mixer to ensure a smooth mixture.
- Set out 3 large tortillas. Divide the cream cheese mixture evenly among these tortillas, making sure to spread it across the entire surface. Next, divide the ham evenly, placing it on top of the spread in a single layer.
- Roll up each tortilla gently, yet tightly, to ensure it holds together and retains its shape. Once rolled, wrap each one in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate the wrapped tortillas for 30 minutes to firm up the cream cheese. Afterward, cut off and discard the ends of each tortilla roll, then slice the remaining roll into even 1-inch slices, using a sharp serrated knife for best results.
Video
Recipe Notes
Note 1: Use full-fat Philadelphia® cream cheese for richer flavor and a thicker consistency. Soften before use for a smoother texture. To soften quickly, microwave the unwrapped block on a plate for 15–20 seconds, flipping and microwaving 10 seconds more if needed.
Note 2: You’re just adding the dry ranch seasoning mix here (don’t prepare the mix!). I highly recommend Hidden Valley® Ranch seasoning packets; in my experience, they have the best flavor without being overly salty (not sponsored).
Storage: Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Keep them tightly packed to prevent unrolling.
Nutrition
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 88kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.002g | Cholesterol: 18mg | Sodium: 247mg | Potassium: 53mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 192IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 44mg | Iron: 0.3mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
I just had a Christmas themed birthday party and these were a hit!!! I layered them on a tray for form a tree. I also added 4 more pieces of bacon!
I am so happy to hear this! Thanks so much Kelsee! 🙂
Will these get soggy if you make them the night before for lunch the next day?
They don’t get too soggy depending on the tortilla you use!
Thanks!
Start eating healthier and exercising! 🙂
thanks for this awesome recipe.. I can’t wait to try the roll ups!
Your recipes are wonderful! I have made a handful of them and plan on making many more. Thanks for all you do!
Thanks so much Ashley! 🙂
These look delicious! I love pinwheels and all the many variations you can do.
Ps how many days do you think I could keep these pinwheels for in the refrigerator?
I wouldn’t keep them longer than a week 🙂
You made my ideal lunch!
What a great idea and those look bomb!
This is my Granddaughter’s favorite or “favs as she calls it, which means favorite.