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Easy Make-Ahead Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups

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These easy make-ahead turkey and cheese lunchbox roll-ups are the perfect solution for busy mornings. Made with simple ingredients like cream cheese, turkey, and tortillas, they’re quick to assemble, kid-approved, and stay fresh for days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large flour tortillas (burrito size, 8–10 inches)
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 pound deli turkey breast, thinly sliced
  • 8 slices provolone cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh spinach (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or chives (optional)
  • 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Soften the cream cheese: Take cream cheese out of fridge 30 minutes before starting, or microwave for 10-15 seconds on low power until softened but not melted.
  2. Mix the spread: In a small bowl, combine softened cream cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper. If using add-ins like Dijon mustard or fresh herbs, mix them in now. Stir until smooth.
  3. Prepare the tortillas: Lay one tortilla flat on a cutting board. If cold, warm in microwave for about 10 seconds to make pliable.
  4. Spread the cream cheese: Using a butter knife or offset spatula, spread about 2 tablespoons of cream cheese mixture evenly over the entire surface of the tortilla, going all the way to the edges.
  5. Layer the turkey: Place 2-3 slices of turkey breast evenly over the cream cheese, overlapping slightly to cover the tortilla completely.
  6. Add the cheese: Lay 2 slices of provolone cheese over the turkey.
  7. Roll it up tight: Starting from one edge, tightly roll the tortilla into a log shape, keeping the filling tucked in as you roll.
  8. Wrap and chill: Place the rolled tortilla seam-side down on a piece of plastic wrap. Wrap tightly, twisting the ends like a candy wrapper. Repeat with remaining tortillas. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  9. Slice and serve: After chilling, unwrap each roll and place on a cutting board. Using a sharp serrated knife, slice into 1-inch pinwheels using a gentle sawing motion. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Notes

For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and let ingredients come to room temperature. Chilling the rolls for at least 30 minutes is essential for clean slicing. These roll-ups taste even better the next day as flavors meld. For gluten-free, use gluten-free tortillas or large lettuce leaves. For dairy-free, use plant-based cream cheese and cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey roll-ups, lunchbox ideas, make-ahead lunch, kid-friendly lunch, easy lunch recipe, pinwheel sandwiches

Find it online: https://dahliadishes.com/easy-make-ahead-turkey-and-cheese-roll-ups/