Why You’ll Love Roast Beef Rollups Recipe
These rollups are simple to prepare but packed with flavor. The creamy filling pairs perfectly with savory roast beef, fresh greens, and cheese — all wrapped into portable bites that are great for gatherings or lunchboxes. Made ahead of time and chilled, they’re stress‑free and always a crowd pleaser.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
¼ cup mayonnaise
4 10‑inch flour tortillas
2 cups spinach leaves, stems removed
1 pound thinly sliced deli roast beef
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions
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In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, prepared horseradish, and mayonnaise until smooth.
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Lay out each flour tortilla and spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the surface.
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Layer spinach leaves, slices of roast beef, and shredded cheddar cheese on top of the spread.
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Tightly roll up each tortilla and wrap it in plastic wrap.
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Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up and meld the flavors.
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When ready to serve, unwrap and slice each roll into 1‑inch pinwheels.
Servings and timing
Servings: 12 rollups
Prep time: about 15 minutes
Chill time: at least 2 hours
Total time: approx. 2 hours 15 minutes
Variations
• Swap the cheddar for Swiss, provolone, or mozzarella for a different cheesy twist.
• Add roasted red peppers or thinly sliced tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
• Substitute turkey or ham for the roast beef to mix up the protein.
• Include thinly sliced green onions or fresh herbs in the filling for a bit of brightness.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover rollups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because these are served cold, reheating isn’t necessary — simply chill and serve. If the tortillas become slightly soggy over time, enjoy them sooner rather than later for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. In fact, chilling the rollups for at least 2 hours helps them set and makes them easier to slice and serve.
Can I freeze roast beef rollups?
Freezing is not recommended as the tortillas and filling may become soggy and lose their texture when thawed.
How long can these sit out?
Keep them at room temperature no more than two hours before refrigerating to ensure food safety.
Can I use smaller tortillas?
Yes. If you use smaller wraps, you’ll simply make more rollups with the same filling.
What can I substitute for horseradish?
If you prefer less heat, swap horseradish for Dijon mustard or omit it and add herbs for flavor.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely — spinach works well, and you can also use lettuce, roasted peppers, or even thinly sliced cucumbers.
Are these suitable for kids?
Yes. For a kid‑friendly version, reduce or omit the horseradish and stick to cheese and roast beef.
How do I get clean slices?
Chilling the rollups before slicing helps ensure they hold together, and using a sharp serrated knife makes neat pinwheels.
Can I use gluten‑free tortillas?
Yes. Gluten‑free or alternative wraps like spinach or whole wheat can work perfectly.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar is classic here, but Swiss, provolone, mozzarella, or Colby jack are all delicious options.
Conclusion
Roast Beef Rollups are simple, flavorful, and versatile — ideal for parties, lunchboxes, or as a satisfying snack. With a creamy, savory filling and plenty of room for variation, this recipe is bound to become a make‑ahead favorite you’ll return to often.
Roast Beef Rollups
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 24 rollups
Description
These Roast Beef Rollups are a quick and delicious appetizer or snack, made with deli roast beef, cream cheese, and flavorful seasonings wrapped in a tortilla. They’re perfect for game days, parties, or a quick protein-packed bite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb deli roast beef
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, horseradish, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Lay a tortilla flat and spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture over the entire surface.
- Layer slices of roast beef evenly over the tortilla.
- Roll the tortilla tightly into a log. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
- Wrap each roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
- Remove from fridge and slice into 1-inch pieces.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve chilled.
Notes
- Chilling the rollups makes them easier to slice cleanly.
- You can make these a day in advance for convenience.
- For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 rollups
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
