Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Italian Pinwheels are the perfect bite-sized snack or appetizer, bursting with the bold flavors of Italian meats, cheeses, and seasonings all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. They’re quick to make, easy to transport, and always a crowd-pleaser—ideal for parties, lunchboxes, or a fun twist on traditional sandwiches.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
large flour tortillascream cheese (softened)Italian seasoninggarlic powderdeli meats (salami, ham, pepperoni)provolone or mozzarella cheeseroasted red peppersbanana peppers (optional)fresh spinach or arugulalettuce (optional)
directions
In a small bowl, mix softened cream cheese with Italian seasoning and garlic powder.
Lay out tortillas and spread a generous layer of the seasoned cream cheese over each one.
Layer with slices of provolone, followed by your choice of Italian meats.
Add roasted red peppers, banana peppers (if using), and a handful of fresh spinach or arugula.
Tightly roll up each tortilla from one end to the other, like a wrap.
Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Slice into 1-inch pinwheels using a sharp knife and arrange on a platter.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 24 pinwheels.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
Use sun-dried tomato wraps or spinach tortillas for color and flavor.
Add a layer of pesto or olive tapenade for extra richness.
Swap meats for grilled veggies or hummus for a vegetarian option.
Add shredded lettuce or thin-sliced tomatoes for freshness.
storage/reheating
Store pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Not suitable for reheating—serve chilled or at room temperature.
Best made fresh the day of serving for peak texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, make and chill a few hours in advance. Slice just before serving.
What keeps them from falling apart?
Chilling helps set the cream cheese and keep the roll tight.
Can I use different meats?
Yes, prosciutto, turkey, or capicola work great too.
Are these kid-friendly?
Definitely—just adjust ingredients to milder flavors if needed.
What if I don’t like cream cheese?
Try using hummus, ricotta, or even a flavored spread as a base.
Can I freeze pinwheels?
Not recommended—texture will change once thawed.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free tortillas and check all ingredient labels.
How thick should I slice them?
About 1-inch pieces work best for bite-sized pinwheels.
What cheese works best?
Provolone and mozzarella are classic, but you can also use cheddar or pepper jack.
Are these good for lunchboxes?
Yes, they travel well and make a fun, filling lunch option.
Conclusion
Italian Pinwheels are a delicious, easy-to-make appetizer or snack that delivers big flavor in a small bite. With layers of savory meats, creamy cheese, and vibrant extras, they’re perfect for entertaining, meal prep, or anytime you want something quick, tasty, and satisfying.
Print
Italian Pinwheels
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 24–30 pinwheels (about 6–8 per tortilla)
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No Bake/No Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Italian Pinwheels are a simple yet delicious appetizer or lunch idea, featuring layers of Italian meats, cheese, and a zesty cream cheese spread rolled into soft tortillas. Slice them into bite-sized pieces for a no-fuss party snack or a grab-and-go lunch option that everyone will love.
Ingredients
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4 large flour tortillas (10-inch size)
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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2 tbsp mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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1/4 tsp garlic powder
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4 slices provolone cheese
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8 slices deli ham
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8 slices salami
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8 slices pepperoni
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1 cup shredded romaine or baby spinach
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1/2 cup roasted red peppers, drained and sliced (optional)
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1/4 cup sliced banana peppers or pepperoncini (optional for tang)
Instructions
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Make the spread:
In a small bowl, mix together softened cream cheese, mayo, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder until smooth and well combined. -
Assemble the pinwheels:
Lay one tortilla flat. Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture all over the tortilla, all the way to the edges.
Layer with 1 slice of provolone, 2 slices each of ham, salami, and pepperoni. Top with a handful of greens and optional peppers. -
Roll tightly:
Starting from one edge, roll the tortilla up as tightly as possible. Repeat with remaining tortillas. -
Chill and slice:
Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Slice into 1-inch pinwheels using a sharp knife. Discard (or snack on!) the ends.
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Serve:
Arrange pinwheels on a platter and serve chilled or at room temp.
Notes
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Great for meal prep! Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Swap meats and cheeses to your taste – turkey, mozzarella, or spicy capicola all work!
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For a vegetarian version, load up with roasted veggies, pesto, and cheese.
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