These delightful ham and cheese pinwheels are perfect for a quick snack or party treat! They’re made with soft tortillas, deli ham, and your favorite cheese, all rolled up and sliced.
Every bite is cheesy and yummy, and they vanish faster than you can say “more please!” I love making a batch ahead of time for unexpected guests—so easy and satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Deli Ham: I love using a good quality deli ham for its flavor and ease. You can switch to turkey or chicken if you’re looking for healthier options or want a change. You could also try prosciutto for a different twist.
Cheese: Mozzarella gives that gooeyness we love, while cheddar adds a bit of sharp flavor. For a twist, consider using gouda, pepper jack, or even a cheese blend. Make sure it’s shredded for melting ease!
Biscuit Dough: Refrigerated biscuit dough is super convenient, but feel free to use homemade dough or crescent roll dough. If you want to go gluten-free, there are gluten-free biscuit options available too!
Olive Oil or Butter: Both add flavor and help achieve a golden crust. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use a spray oil instead, and it will still give a nice finish.
How Do I Roll the Pinwheels Without Them Unraveling?
Rolling pinwheels tightly is key to keeping them intact during baking. Here’s how to do it smoothly:
- Start with the thicker part of the biscuit facing you, and roll tightly enough to hold shape but not so tight that the filling spills out.
- Seal the edge of the rolled dough by pinching it a little to secure it. This helps maintain the pinwheel structure.
- Placing them seam side down in the muffin tin will help keep them together while they bake.
Taking your time with this step can make all the difference! Enjoy your delicious pinwheels!
How to Make Savory Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 slices deli ham (about 6 oz)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 package refrigerated biscuit dough (8 biscuits)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to bake, giving you a total of around 30 minutes from start to finish. That’s quick and easy for a delicious snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, you can prepare your muffin tin. Lightly grease the tin or line it with silicone liners to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Dough:
Take your refrigerated biscuit dough and place it on a clean flat surface. Using your hands or a rolling pin, flatten each biscuit lightly into a circle about 4 inches wide. This makes it easier to roll with your filling.
3. Add the Ham:
Layer one slice of deli ham over each flattened biscuit round. Make sure the ham covers the dough from edge to edge for full flavor in every bite.
4. Sprinkle on the Cheese:
Next, sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the ham. This is where you’ll get that rich, melty cheesiness!
5. Roll the Pinwheels:
Starting from one edge, carefully and tightly roll each biscuit slice with the ham and cheese into a spiral shape. This will create the pinwheel effect.
6. Prepare for Baking:
Place each rolled pinwheel seam side down into a muffin tin cup. This helps the pinwheel hold its shape while baking.
7. Brush with Olive Oil:
Lightly brush the tops of the pinwheels with olive oil or melted butter. This gives them a lovely golden color when they bake.
8. Season to Taste:
In a small bowl, mix together the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a bit of freshly ground black pepper. Sprinkle this flavorful mix over the tops and sides of each pinwheel for added taste.
9. Bake:
Pop your muffin tin into the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. The pinwheels should be golden brown, cooked through, and the cheese bubbly and delicious!
10. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes. Carefully take them out of the muffin tin, and they’re ready to serve!
11. Enjoy:
Serve these warm as a delightful snack or appetizer. They’re perfect for parties, lunches, or whenever you crave something savory!
These savory pinwheels are sure to be a hit, featuring a crispy golden exterior with a melty cheesy, ham-filled center, seasoned just right for extra delicious flavor. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Tortillas Instead of Biscuit Dough?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use flour tortillas to make pinwheels. Just spread the ham and cheese on the tortillas and roll them up tightly. Slice into rounds, and they’ll bake in a similar way, though you’ll want to adjust the baking time to about 10-15 minutes.
How to Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispy texture.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Filling?
Definitely! Feel free to sneak in some diced bell peppers, spinach, or even thinly sliced onions to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to chop vegetables finely to ensure they roll well and cook through.
What Can I Serve with These Pinwheels?
These pinwheels pair beautifully with a variety of dips like ranch, marinara, or mustard. They also make a great addition to a charcuterie board alongside fruits, crackers, and other snacks!
