If you love bites packed with tang, creaminess, and a touch of savory magic, you are going to adore this Dried Beef Pickle Roll Ups Recipe. These irresistible finger foods combine the smoky saltiness of dried beef with the crisp zest of baby dill pickles, all wrapped in a smooth layer of cream cheese. They’re incredibly easy to make but deliver so much flavor and texture that they’re perfect for parties, snacks, or even a quick appetizer any day of the week. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become one of your favorite go-to recipes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients is key to getting the perfect balance of flavors and textures in this dish. Each one plays a starring role—cream cheese brings rich creaminess, baby dill pickles add that bright crunch and acidity, and dried beef delivers a meaty, salty punch.
- 4 oz plain cream cheese, softened: Softening makes spreading easier and creates the perfect adhesive layer for rolling.
- 16 oz baby dill pickles: Smaller size is ideal for bite-sized rolls with a crisp, refreshing snap.
- 5 oz container dried beef: The savory heart of this recipe, sliced thin for easy rolling and a delightful salty flavor.
How to Make Dried Beef Pickle Roll Ups Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pickles
Start by draining all the juice from your baby dill pickles. No one wants a soggy roll-up! For extra assurance, gently pat each pickle with a paper towel to absorb any lingering moisture. This step keeps your roll-ups crisp and ensures the cream cheese stays perfectly in place.
Step 2: Spread the Cream Cheese
Grab a butterknife and scoop a small amount of softened cream cheese. Spread it evenly across one side of a dried beef slice, covering the surface completely. This creamy layer works as a tasty glue, helping the roll stay tightly wrapped with that irresistible creamy tang.
Step 3: Assemble the Roll Ups
Next, lay a baby dill pickle in the center of the cream cheese-coated dried beef. Carefully roll the beef around the pickle, folding the edges so they overlap slightly and the cream cheese seals everything together. Don’t squeeze too hard—gentle but firm rolling keeps the pickle intact while wrapping it beautifully.
Step 4: Repeat and Serve
Keep going until you’ve rolled all the pickles in dried beef and cream cheese. You can serve these roll ups whole or slice them in half with a serrated knife for an elegant presentation. Eat them immediately or store any leftovers tightly in an airtight container in the fridge. These roll ups get better as they chill!
How to Serve Dried Beef Pickle Roll Ups Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives or dill on top for a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness. A dash of cracked black pepper can also elevate the flavor with a subtle, spicy kick that complements the creamy and salty elements beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair your dried beef pickle roll ups with some crunchy vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, or bell peppers to add a fresh bite contrast. Alternatively, a simple cheese platter or crusty bread will round out the snack experience perfectly for casual gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve these roll ups on a wooden charcuterie board surrounded by olives, nuts, and grape clusters. You might also arrange them standing on end for an eye-catching appetizer display, or skewer each with a decorative toothpick for easy grab-and-go snacking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the roll ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well overnight, maintaining their texture and flavor without becoming soggy or dried out.
Freezing
Because of the fresh pickles and cream cheese, freezing these roll ups is not recommended. Freezing tends to alter the texture of both the pickles and the cream cheese, resulting in a less enjoyable bite once thawed.
Reheating
This recipe is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Reheating is not necessary and can compromise both the creamy and crunchy contrast that makes these roll ups so delightful.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pickles in this recipe?
Yes! While baby dill pickles are ideal for their size and tangy flavor, you can experiment with bread-and-butter pickles or spicy pickles if you want a different sweet or heat profile. Just be sure they’re small enough to roll comfortably.
Is dried beef similar to beef jerky?
They’re related but not the same. Dried beef is typically thinly sliced and salt-cured, often used in recipes requiring a delicate texture, while beef jerky is generally thicker, tougher, and more intensely flavored. For these roll ups, dried beef is preferred for easier rolling and a milder taste.
Can I substitute cream cheese with something else?
For the best texture and flavor, cream cheese is highly recommended. If you want a lighter option, try using a herbed goat cheese or ricotta, though rolling might be trickier due to consistency differences.
How long does it take to make this dish?
This Dried Beef Pickle Roll Ups Recipe is incredibly quick—about 10 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for last-minute snacks or impromptu parties.
Are these roll ups gluten-free?
Absolutely! The ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, so it’s a safe and tasty option for those avoiding gluten.
Final Thoughts
Making these Dried Beef Pickle Roll Ups Recipe is like unlocking a secret snack treasure—so simple to prepare yet bursting with flavors you’ll crave again and again. Whether you’re hosting a get-together or just want a satisfying snack, these roll ups deliver on taste, texture, and convenience. Give them a try and watch how quickly they disappear from the plate!
Print
Dried Beef Pickle Roll Ups Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
These Dried Beef Pickle Roll Ups are a quick and easy appetizer featuring tangy baby dill pickles wrapped in savory dried beef with a creamy layer of cream cheese. Perfect for snack time or party platters, they combine creamy, salty, and tangy flavors in a simple no-cook recipe.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 4 oz plain cream cheese, softened
- 16 oz baby dill pickles
- 5 oz container dried beef
Instructions
- Prepare the pickles: Drain all of the juice from the pickles and pour the pickles into a bowl. Use a paper towel to gently pat the pickles and remove any excess juice to avoid sogginess in the roll ups.
- Spread cream cheese: Take a small amount of softened cream cheese on a butterknife and spread it evenly on one side of a piece of dried beef, covering the entire surface for a good coating.
- Assemble the roll ups: Place a baby dill pickle in the center of the cream cheese-covered side of the dried beef. Gently roll up both sides of the dried beef around the pickle, using the cream cheese as glue, overlapping the beef if possible to secure the roll.
- Repeat: Continue the process with the remaining pickles and dried beef until all are used up.
- Serve: Serve the roll ups whole or sliced in half with a serrated knife. They can be enjoyed immediately or stored in an airtight container in the fridge overnight for later enjoyment.
Notes
- Ensure the pickles are well drained and patted dry to prevent soggy roll ups.
- Use plain cream cheese and softened to make spreading easier.
- These roll ups can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated overnight.
- Use a serrated knife to cut roll ups cleanly without squashing them.
- Suitable for a quick, no-cook snack or appetizer option.
