Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups are the ultimate party appetizer! This 5-ingredient recipe delivers bold flavor in minutes—perfect for any gathering.
Man, oh man, let me tell you about the time I showed up to my sister’s birthday party with store-bought chips. Everyone else brought these elaborate appetizers, and I felt like I’d walked into a culinary showdown armed with a bag of Doritos.
That embarrassing moment changed everything. I started experimenting with simple appetizers that looked impressive but didn’t require a culinary degree. These Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups became my secret weapon—five ingredients, ten minutes, and suddenly I’m the person everyone asks to bring “those amazing roll ups” to every gathering.
The genius lies in the simplicity. Creamy, herb-infused filling wrapped in savory salami creates this perfect bite-sized flavor bomb. I’ve made these for Super Bowl parties, holiday gatherings, and random Tuesday nights when I needed something special without the stress.
Table of Contents
What Makes These Salami Roll Ups Special
These Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups represent everything I love about party food. They deliver restaurant-quality taste with pantry staples you probably already own. The cream cheese filling gets elevated with aromatic herbs and spices, creating depth that surprises first-time tasters.
I’ve tested this recipe at least twenty times, tweaking ratios until the filling reached that perfect spreadable consistency. The key is balancing the garlic powder and chives so neither dominates. Professional caterers often charge premium prices for similar appetizers, but you’ll master this technique in one attempt.
Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Toothpicks
- Cutting board
- Plate
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 slices Salami Genoa, pepperoni, or turkey salami
- 8 ounces Cream cheese Softened to room temperature
- 2 teaspoons Dried chives Fresh chives work too—use 1 tablespoon
- 2 teaspoons Dried onion Onion powder creates savory depth
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder Not garlic salt—pure powder only
- To taste Black pepper Freshly ground delivers better flavor
- Optional Green olives For garnish with toothpicks
- Optional Pretzels Serving accompaniment
Instructions
- Remove cream cheese from refrigerator 30 minutes before starting. Mix with dried chives, dried onion, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.
- Lay salami slices on a cutting board. Check for tears or odd shapes and set aside damaged pieces.
- Scoop about one tablespoon of cream cheese mixture onto each salami slice. Spread evenly, leaving a thin border around edges.
- Roll each salami slice tightly from one edge to the other, applying gentle pressure to secure the filling.
- Insert a toothpick through the center of each roll. Optional: thread a green olive onto the toothpick first.
- Arrange completed roll ups on a serving platter. Serve immediately or refrigerate up to four hours before serving. Add pretzels around platter edges if desired.
Notes
Ingredients for Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups
For the best results, quality ingredients matter. Choose fresh spices over old pantry staples—the difference in flavor is remarkable. Select salami from the deli counter rather than pre-packaged options when possible, as the texture wraps more easily around the filling.
| Ingredient | US Measurement | Metric | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Salami slices | 12 slices | ~240g | Genoa, pepperoni, or turkey salami work well |
| Cream cheese | 8 ounces | 226g | Must be softened to room temperature |
| Dried chives | 2 teaspoons | 2g | Fresh chives work too—use 1 tablespoon |
| Dried onion | 2 teaspoons | 3g | Onion powder creates savory depth |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon | 2g | Not garlic salt—pure powder only |
| Black pepper | To taste | ~1g | Freshly ground delivers better flavor |
| Green olives | Optional | As needed | For garnish with toothpicks |
| Pretzels | Optional | As needed | Serving accompaniment |
Shopping Tips for US Grocery Stores
Head to the deli counter first. Ask for salami sliced medium-thick—about 1/8 inch works perfectly. Most stores will slice it fresh, which prevents the slices from sticking together like pre-packaged versions do.
Cream cheese sits in the dairy section near the butter. Philadelphia is the gold standard, but store brands work equally well if they’re full-fat. Avoid reduced-fat versions—they create a grainy texture that doesn’t spread smoothly. The herb and spice aisle carries your dried chives, onion, and garlic powder, though checking your pantry first might save you money.
Bold Add-Ins and Creative Variations
Transform these salami rolls cream cheese appetizers with creative additions. Try sundried tomatoes for Mediterranean flair, or mix in a tablespoon of everything bagel seasoning for extra crunch. Some readers love adding a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture, creating spicy salami cream cheese roll ups that disappear within minutes at parties.
For international readers substituting ingredients, use any cured meat that slices thin—prosciutto, mortadella, or even smoked turkey creates delicious variations. Replace cream cheese with mascarpone for Italian-inspired versions, or try Boursin for pre-seasoned convenience.
Equipment and Step-by-Step Instructions
Essential Equipment
You’ll need minimal equipment for these salami roll ups. A small mixing bowl, a spoon or spatula for mixing, and toothpicks for securing the rolls cover the basics. A cutting board provides a clean surface for assembly, though a large plate works in a pinch.
No fancy tools required here. I use a regular butter knife to spread the cream cheese mixture, though an offset spatula makes the job slightly easier if you own one. For serving, any platter or cutting board displays these beautifully—I often use a wooden board for rustic presentation.
Step 1: Create the Perfect Cream Cheese Filling
Remove your cream cheese from the refrigerator 30 minutes before starting. Softened cream cheese mixes smoothly without lumps, which matters for even spreading. Place it in a small bowl and add the dried chives, dried onion, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Mix vigorously until completely smooth. You’ll know it’s ready when no white streaks remain and the herbs distribute evenly throughout. This takes about two minutes of stirring with a spoon. Well, I learned the hard way that rushing this step creates clumpy filling that doesn’t spread properly—patience pays off here.
Step 2: Prepare Your Salami Slices
Lay your salami slices on a clean cutting board or flat surface. Arrange them in rows to streamline the assembly process. This organization prevents the cream cheese from drying out while you work, since you’ll move quickly through all twelve slices.
Check each slice for tears or odd shapes. Set aside any damaged pieces for snacking—only perfect circles or ovals make the final presentation. Room temperature salami rolls more easily than cold, so letting it sit out briefly helps prevent cracking during the rolling process.
Step 3: Spread the Filling Generously
Scoop about one tablespoon of cream cheese mixture onto each salami slice. Spread it evenly across the entire surface, leaving just a thin border around the edges. The filling should cover completely but not overflow—think of spreading peanut butter on bread with a light touch.
As Thomas Keller emphasizes in his teachings, proper technique creates consistency. Use smooth, confident strokes when spreading to avoid tearing the salami. The mixture should look uniform across all slices, which ensures every roll up tastes identical and creates that professional appearance guests notice.
Step 4: Roll the Salami Tightly
Start from one edge of the salami slice and roll it toward the opposite side. Apply gentle, even pressure as you roll to keep the cream cheese from squeezing out the ends. The goal is a tight cylinder that holds together without force.
Each roll should feel secure in your hand. If cream cheese oozes out, you’ve either spread too much or rolled too aggressively. Simply wipe away excess and continue—these aren’t meant to be perfect, just delicious. I’ve found that rolling from the same direction for each slice creates uniform presentation on the serving platter.
Step 5: Secure with Toothpicks
Insert a toothpick through the center of each roll, piercing completely through to the other side. This holds the salami in place and provides an easy handle for guests. Position the toothpick perpendicular to the roll’s length for maximum stability.
For party presentation, thread a green olive onto the toothpick first. The briny flavor complements the creamy filling beautifully, and the pop of color makes each piece look more sophisticated. You can also double-stack rolls on longer toothpicks if you want heartier servings.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Arrange your completed salami cream cheese roll ups on a serving platter. You can serve them immediately at room temperature, or refrigerate for up to four hours before your event. Chilling actually enhances the flavors as the herbs meld with the cream cheese.
Just before serving, add pretzels around the platter’s edges. The salty crunch provides textural contrast that guests appreciate. These roll ups pair wonderfully with garlic parmesan cheeseburger bombs for a complete appetizer spread that covers all your bases.
Expert Tips for Perfect Roll Ups Every Time
Let your cream cheese soften naturally on the counter. Microwaving it creates uneven texture with hot spots that melt too much while other parts stay firm. The thirty-minute wait is worth it for smooth, spreadable filling.
Choose salami slices that are round rather than irregular shapes. Uniform circles roll more neatly and look better on serving platters. Deli counter workers usually understand this request and will adjust their slicing accordingly.
Season boldly but taste as you go. Start with the recipe measurements, then adjust based on your preferences. Some people love extra garlic powder, while others prefer more pepper—there’s no wrong answer here.
Make these salami roll ups ahead by preparing them up to 24 hours before your event. Cover the platter tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. The flavors actually improve overnight as everything melds together, creating even more delicious results.
Creative Variations to Try
Holiday Cranberry Version: Add two tablespoons of dried cranberries and a teaspoon of fresh rosemary to the cream cheese mixture. These festive salami cream cheese roll ups perfect for Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings when you want seasonal flair without complicated recipes.
Spicy Jalapeño Style: Mix in two tablespoons of finely diced pickled jalapeños and replace the chives with cilantro. This Southwestern twist appeals to heat lovers and pairs excellently with mini caprese bites for variety on your appetizer table.
Mediterranean Fusion: Incorporate sundried tomatoes, fresh basil, and a pinch of Italian seasoning into the filling. Use prosciutto instead of salami for authentic Italian character. This variation connects beautifully with peach bruschetta with whipped ricotta when you’re building a Mediterranean-inspired menu.
Everything Bagel Edition: Replace the dried onion and chives with two tablespoons of everything bagel seasoning. This creates instant flavor complexity with zero extra effort—one of my personal favorite shortcuts for busy weeknight entertaining.
Bacon Lover’s Dream: Wrap the cream cheese-covered salami with a half slice of crispy bacon before rolling. Secure with two toothpicks and prepare for these to vanish faster than anything else on your table.
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
Refrigerate leftover salami roll ups in an airtight container for up to three days. The toothpicks can stay inserted, or remove them and store the rolls flat in layers separated by parchment paper. Cold storage actually enhances the herb flavors as they continue developing.
These don’t freeze well due to the cream cheese texture changing. However, you can prepare the filling up to five days ahead and store it separately. When ready to serve, let the filling come to room temperature, then spread and roll fresh salami for best results.
| Storage Method | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated (assembled) | 3 days | Leftovers or 24-hour prep |
| Refrigerated (filling only) | 5 days | Advanced meal prep |
| Room temperature | 2 hours | Active parties |
| Freezing | Not recommended | Texture degradation |
Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions
Serve these cream cheese salami roll ups alongside crunchy vegetables, crackers, and funfetti marshmallow popcorn for sweet-savory balance. The combination covers every taste preference at your gathering without overwhelming your prep time.
Wine pairing matters more than most people think. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness beautifully, while light-bodied red wines like Pinot Noir complement the salami’s savory notes. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with lemon provides palate-cleansing refreshment between bites.
Create a complete appetizer board by adding grapes, cherry tomatoes, and cubed cheeses around your roll ups. This builds visual interest while giving guests multiple options. The American tradition of grazing boards has made combination platters the star of modern entertaining.
Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups FAQs
How do you roll up salami and cream cheese?
You roll up salami and cream cheese by first spreading softened, seasoned cream cheese evenly across a salami slice, then rolling the slice from one edge to the other into a tight cylinder. Secure the roll with a toothpick through the center to hold everything together. The key is using room temperature ingredients so the salami remains pliable and doesn’t crack during rolling.
Is salami and cream cheese a good combo?
Salami and cream cheese create an excellent combination because the rich, slightly salty meat balances perfectly with creamy, tangy cheese. The texture contrast between firm salami and soft filling makes each bite interesting, while herbs and spices in the cream cheese add complexity that prevents the flavor from becoming one-dimensional. This pairing has remained popular at parties for decades precisely because the flavors complement each other so naturally.
What to put in a roll with salami?
In a roll with salami, add cream cheese mixed with herbs like chives and seasonings like garlic powder for classic flavor, or experiment with sundried tomatoes, olives, roasted red peppers, or spicy jalapeños. The cream cheese base accepts virtually any addition you enjoy—think of it as a blank canvas for your favorite flavors. According to culinary experts at Bon Appétit, successful appetizer fillings balance creamy, savory, and acidic elements for maximum appeal.
Which cheese goes well with salami?
Cream cheese goes exceptionally well with salami, but provolone, mozzarella, Swiss, and gouda also pair beautifully with cured meats. The choice depends on your desired flavor profile—cream cheese offers tanginess and spreadability, while harder cheeses provide sharpness and texture. For these roll ups specifically, cream cheese works best because it spreads smoothly and holds the roll together without sliding out during assembly or eating.
Final Thoughts and Your Next Steps
These Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups prove that impressive appetizers don’t require complicated techniques or expensive ingredients. You’ve learned how to create party-ready food that actually tastes homemade, not assembled from a freezer bag. Isn’t that what great home cooking should be—simple, delicious, and worth sharing?
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Make them classic for traditional gatherings, or experiment with bold variations when you’re feeling adventurous. Either way, you’ll spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your guests.
Next time you’re planning a party, pair these with slow cooker strawberry butter and fresh bread for a complete spread that covers appetizers through dessert. Your guests will think you spent hours in the kitchen, but we’ll know the truth—sometimes the best recipes are the ones that don’t require culinary school credentials.
Ready to become the appetizer hero at your next gathering? Grab your ingredients and make these roll ups today. Then come back and tell me which variation you tried—I’m always looking for new twists to test in my own kitchen.
