Description
I’ve always found that the simplest recipes often hold the most profound memories. This ham and pickle roll-up recipe is a perfect example. It’s something my grandmother used to make for every family gathering, and the taste instantly transports me back to those happy, carefree days.
Ingredients
- 8 whole baby dill pickles
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 8 slices deli ham (thinly sliced)
- 2 teaspoons ranch seasoning
Instructions
First, in your medium bowl, thoroughly combine the softened cream cheese and ranch seasoning. Use a fork or a small spatula to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese. You want a smooth, consistent mixture.
Next, pat the dill pickles and ham slices dry with paper towels. This is an important step to prevent the roll-ups from becoming soggy. Lay out a slice of ham on your cutting board or parchment-lined baking sheet.
Spread approximately 1 to 2 tablespoons of the seasoned cream cheese evenly over the entire surface of the ham slice. Make sure to spread it all the way to the edges. This ensures every bite has a delicious layer of cream cheese.
Place one dill pickle at one end of the ham slice. Then, carefully and tightly roll the ham around the pickle, starting from the end with the pickle. Continue rolling until you reach the other end, creating a neat, compact roll-up.
Repeat steps 3 and 4 with the remaining ham slices, cream cheese, and pickles. Once all the roll-ups are assembled, cover them with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container.
Refrigerate the roll-ups for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the cream cheese to firm up, making the roll-ups easier to slice and handle. They will also hold their shape better