These Ham, Cheese, and Ranch Rollups are perfect for any gathering, offering the ideal combination of creamy ranch dressing, sharp cheddar cheese, and savory ham. The soft, yet flavorful filling complements the tender ham, making each bite a delicious treat.
Whether you’re hosting a party, need a quick snack, or preparing an easy lunch, these rollups are a fantastic option. Serve them cold for a refreshing bite or make them ahead for a stress-free meal prep. Their simple ingredients and satisfying flavors make them a go-to for any occasion!
Full Recipe:
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8 slices of ham
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/4 cup ranch dressing
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1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
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1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
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1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Lay the ham slices flat on a clean surface.
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In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, ranch dressing, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and fresh chives until smooth.
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Spread a generous amount of the ranch cream cheese mixture over each ham slice.
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Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the ranch cream cheese layer.
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Roll up each slice of ham tightly, securing the filling inside.
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Slice each rollup into 1-inch pieces.
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Arrange on a platter and serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: 125 kcal | Servings: 8 rollups
Ham, Cheese, and Ranch Rollups: A Perfect Snack or Appetizer
Ham, Cheese, and Ranch Rollups are a versatile and delicious dish that can serve as a quick snack, appetizer, or even a fun lunch idea. The combination of savory ham, creamy ranch dressing, and gooey cheddar cheese creates a perfect bite-sized treat that is loved by people of all ages. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a simple meal prep idea, or craving something easy to prepare, these rollups fit the bill. In this article, we’ll explore the beauty of Ham, Cheese, and Ranch Rollups, how to serve them, and offer some creative variations to make them even more exciting.
Why Ham, Cheese, and Ranch Rollups are a Crowd-Pleaser
One of the primary reasons Ham, Cheese, and Ranch Rollups are such a hit is their simplicity and flavor profile. The ingredients are familiar, and the preparation is straightforward. Ham brings a savory, salty bite, while the cheddar cheese offers richness and creaminess. The ranch dressing adds a zesty, tangy note that elevates the entire dish, making it a delightful experience in every bite. This combination of flavors works well together, and the fact that they can be prepared in a matter of minutes makes them an ideal option for last-minute guests or busy weeknights.
Another reason for their popularity is the versatility of this dish. You can serve them in various ways depending on the occasion, which means you can get creative with the presentation and the ingredients. Whether you’re preparing them for a casual lunch or making them for a more formal gathering, these rollups are a guaranteed hit.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Snacks
If you’re someone who likes to prepare meals ahead of time, Ham, Cheese, and Ranch Rollups are an excellent choice. Since they don’t require cooking, they are a great no-fuss option for meal prep. You can make a batch, store them in the refrigerator, and pull them out whenever you’re ready to enjoy them. They also make for a great snack to pack for work or school lunches. Their bite-sized format ensures portion control, and they stay fresh in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
Another benefit of making these rollups in advance is their ability to be tailored to suit your individual tastes. If you’re preparing them for a gathering or a potluck, you can make a variety of versions using different types of cheese, meats, or even adding extra ingredients like olives or pickles for a tangy surprise.
Creative Variations to Try
While the classic Ham, Cheese, and Ranch Rollups are already a winning combination, you can experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make them even more exciting. Here are some variations you can try:
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Turkey and Swiss Rollups: Swap out the ham for turkey and use Swiss cheese in place of cheddar. The mild flavor of Swiss cheese pairs beautifully with turkey, and a light touch of mustard or honey mustard dressing can be added for a slightly tangy kick.
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Bacon Lovers Rollups: Add crispy bacon to the classic rollup for extra crunch and a smoky flavor. You can crumble the bacon and mix it into the ranch dressing for a bacon ranch dressing, or you can simply lay a strip of bacon on top of the ham before rolling it up.
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Spicy Rollups: If you love a little heat, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the ranch dressing. The creamy ranch will balance out the heat, while the cheese will cool things down.
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Vegetarian Rollups: For a vegetarian twist, try using grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms in place of the ham. A drizzle of ranch dressing will give the veggies that creamy, tangy flavor you love in the original rollup.
Serving Tips and Presentation Ideas
How you serve Ham, Cheese, and Ranch Rollups can make a big difference in how they’re perceived. Here are some fun ways to present these rollups:
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On a Platter: Serve them on a platter, arranged neatly with toothpicks for easy serving. This makes them perfect for parties and gatherings, allowing guests to grab a bite without the need for utensils.
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In a Bento Box: If you’re looking for a fun lunch idea, pack these rollups in a bento box alongside other snacks like veggie sticks, fruits, and a small portion of dip.
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With Dipping Sauces: While ranch dressing is the go-to dip for these rollups, you can offer a variety of sauces for guests to enjoy. Consider adding BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or a creamy garlic dip for an extra layer of flavor.
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As Part of a Charcuterie Board: Include the rollups on a charcuterie board with a selection of cheeses, crackers, fruits, and meats. This adds an element of fun to your spread and gives guests a variety of options.
Perfect Pairings for Ham, Cheese, and Ranch Rollups
Pairing Ham, Cheese, and Ranch Rollups with the right beverages or side dishes can elevate the experience. Here are some excellent options:
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Drinks: These rollups go well with a wide range of drinks. For a light option, serve them with sparkling water or iced tea. If you want to add a little flair, a cold beer or a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, would pair nicely with the salty ham and creamy cheese.
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Sides: Pair your rollups with fresh vegetable sides like a simple green salad, carrot sticks, or cucumber slices. The crisp freshness of these veggies will complement the richness of the rollups. For a more indulgent option, consider serving them with potato chips or sweet potato fries for a delicious, satisfying combination.
Nutritional Information and Health Considerations
Although Ham, Cheese, and Ranch Rollups are typically enjoyed as a savory treat, they can also be adapted for a healthier version. To cut down on calories, you can use lean turkey slices in place of ham or choose low-fat cream cheese and cheese options. Opt for a lighter version of ranch dressing or make your own homemade dressing with Greek yogurt as the base for a healthier alternative.
For those who are mindful of dietary restrictions, there are plenty of substitutions you can make. You can go gluten-free by using gluten-free deli meats and cheese, or you can make the rollups dairy-free by using dairy-free cheese and a plant-based ranch dressing. This allows you to enjoy this recipe without compromising on taste.
Conclusion
Ham, Cheese, and Ranch Rollups are a delightful, versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various settings. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing snacks for the week, or simply craving something savory, these rollups are sure to satisfy. Their simple ingredients, quick preparation time, and endless opportunities for customization make them a go-to recipe for any occasion. With a few creative variations, serving tips, and thoughtful pairings, you can take this easy recipe and turn it into a crowd-pleasing meal or snack that everyone will love. So, give it a try and enjoy these delicious rollups at your next event or whenever you need a quick and tasty treat!