Ingredients You’ll Need

To create 12 delicious ham roll-ups, gather the following ingredients:

• 12 slices of deli ham (choose a good quality, preferably nitrate-free variety, about 3 oz each)
• 4 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or try a mozzarella-cheddar blend for a sharper flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
• 1/4 tsp salt (optional, adjust based on the ham’s saltiness)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 1/4 cup almond flour (for an optional crispy coating)
• 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter, for brushing

For Serving (Optional): Pair these with your favorite low-carb dipping sauce, such as sugar-free marinara, creamy ranch, or a zesty mustard dip.

Time & Servings

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20–25 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes
• Yields: 12 rolls

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This simple step prevents the rolls from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

2. Create the Creamy Cheese Filling

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix everything together until the filling is smooth and well-incorporated. If you’re using fresh parsley, stir it in now for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

3. Assemble the Ham Rolls

Lay the 12 slices of ham flat on a clean work surface. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture onto each slice and spread it evenly, leaving a small border on one side to help seal the roll.

4. Roll and Secure

Starting from the edge opposite the clean border, roll each ham slice up tightly to encase the delicious filling. The roll should be snug to ensure it holds its shape while baking.

5. Add a Crispy Coating (Optional)

For an extra-crunchy, golden exterior, lightly dredge each roll in almond flour. Gently press to make sure the flour adheres before placing the roll-ups on your prepared baking sheet.

6. Brush and Bake

Arrange the rolls seam-side down on the baking sheet. Using a pastry brush, lightly coat each one with olive oil or melted butter. This helps them achieve a beautiful golden-brown color. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the rolls are lightly browned.

7. Broil for Extra Crispiness

Want them even crispier? Switch the oven to the broil setting for the final 1–2 minutes. Keep a very close eye on them, as they can go from golden to burnt in seconds!

8. Cool and Serve

Once baked to perfection, remove the pan from the oven and let the ham rolls cool for 3–5 minutes. This allows the cheesy filling to set up slightly, making them easier to handle. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and serve warm with your favorite keto-friendly dip.

Tips, Variations, and Storage

Tips for Perfect Ham Rolls

• Quality Ham: Using high-quality, nitrate-free ham not only tastes better but is a cleaner option.
• Soft Cream Cheese is Key: Ensure your cream cheese is truly at room temperature. This prevents the ham from tearing when you spread the filling.
• ‘Don’t Overfill: It’s tempting, but too much filling will ooze out during baking, creating a mess.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other herbs and spices like oregano, thyme, or a pinch of red pepper flakes to customize the taste.

Fun Variations to Try

• Cheese Swaps: Substitute mozzarella with pepper jack for a spicy kick, or try Gruyère or sharp cheddar for a more robust flavor.
• Different Proteins: Sliced turkey works wonderfully as a leaner alternative to ham.
• Veggie Add-Ins: Mix finely chopped sautéed spinach, diced bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes into the cheese filling for extra nutrients and flavor.

Storage and Meal Prep

These ham rolls are perfect for making ahead! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat and restore their crispiness, pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes. You can also freeze them for up to a month; just thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Nutritional Information

These rolls are fully compliant with keto, low-carb, and diabetic-friendly diets. The macros make them a perfect fit for hitting your daily goals.

Approximate Nutrition Per Roll:

Weight Watchers SmartPoints: Approximately 3 points per roll (on the standard WW Blue/Green plan), making it a smart and satisfying choice.