Pastrami Roll-Ups

These pastrami roll-ups are what you make when you want bold, briny, creamy and crunchy all in one bite. The filling hits a sharp-savory note from crumbled blue cheese folded into a smooth base of cream cheese. When spread onto thin-sliced pastrami that’s then wrapped around a cold, crisp dill pickle spear, you have a snack that packs a punch. Each bite delivers a salty pop and a cooling crunch, with just enough funkiness to keep things interesting.

These roll-ups are easy to prep, easy to transport and easy to eat. You can bang out a tray in under 15 minutes with ingredients straight from the fridge. They hold their shape and stay fresh-tasting for hours, which makes them a smart choice for a game day snack, a potluck spread or even a high-protein pick-me-up at work. The contrast of textures is what hooks people: chewy meat, creamy cheese, snappy pickle. Once you make them, you’ll understand why they disappear so fast.

Pastrami Roll-Up Ingredients

• Cream cheese
• Crumbled blue cheese
• Deli pastrami
• Dill pickle spears

Directions

Step 1: Make the cheese filling

In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese and blue cheese together until blended.

Step 2: Prep the pastrami and pickles

If necessary, pat the pastrami and pickles dry with paper towels.

Step 3: Assemble and slice the roll-ups

Spread about 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture over each pastrami slice, then top the cheese with a pickle spear. Roll up the pastrami and cheese tightly around the spear. Cut each roll into four slices.

How to Store Pastrami Roll-Ups

Store any leftover pastrami roll-ups in a tightly sealed food storage container in the refrigerator. For the best texture and flavor, enjoy them within three to four days. Make sure the roll-ups are well chilled before stacking them to help them hold their shape.

Pastrami Roll-Up Tips

What can I substitute for blue cheese in pastrami roll-ups?

To replace the blue cheese in pastrami roll-ups, swap in crumbled feta or shredded sharp cheddar for a milder flavor. You can also omit the blue cheese entirely and use only cream cheese for a smoother, more neutral filling.

How do you keep pastrami roll-ups from unrolling?

To keep your roll-ups from unrolling, make sure to spread the cheese mixture evenly to the edges of the pastrami and roll them tightly around the pickle spears. Chilling the assembled roll-ups for 15 to 20 minutes before slicing them can also help them hold their shape.

What can you serve with pastrami roll-ups for a complete snack board?

To build a complete snack board around these pastrami roll-ups, pair them with other easy, flavorful bites like marinated cheese for a tangy counterpoint, deviled eggs for a creamy classic, and spiced nuts for crunch and heat. Add a dip like roasted red pepper hummus with cut vegetables or crackers to round things out.