Turkey roll ups are my go-to for busy weeknights. They turn leftovers into something you actually want to eat, not just toss in a Tupperware. It’s simple, satisfying, and feels a little fancy, even if it’s just a quick fix after a long day.
What I love about this recipe is how flexible it is. You can swap in your favorite cheese, add some crunch with nuts, or keep it super pared-down. It’s one of those dishes that makes leftovers feel new and special, without fuss or extra prep.
Plus, it’s a chance to clear out the fridge without wasting anything. I’ve served these for everything from weeknight dinners to last-minute guests. They’re honest, unpolished, and honest-to-goodness comforting.
Focusing on how turkey roll ups can be a practical, no-fuss solution for busy weeknights, turning leftovers into a comforting, customizable dish that feels special without much effort.
The story behind this recipe
- This recipe came from a night I was staring at a nearly empty fridge, feeling too tired to cook anything complicated. The idea of wrapping up leftovers in turkey and melting cheese felt like a small victory, turning what could’ve been a boring meal into something warm and satisfying.
- I remember the first time I made these for my family — the smell of toasted turkey and herbs filled the kitchen, and everyone’s eyes lit up. It was a reminder that simple ingredients, combined with just a little care, can make a dinner feel special.
- Over the years, I’ve tweaked this recipe to suit busy nights, adding bits of crunch or a splash of tang. It’s become my go-to for quick comfort, a no-fuss way to make leftovers feel fresh and a little indulgent.
Component insights for Turkey Roll Ups
- Turkey slices: I prefer using thin, deli-style slices that curl nicely when cooked; they get a little crispy around the edges, which adds a nice texture for you to enjoy.
- Cheese: I love a sharp cheddar for its tang, but a melty Swiss or provolone works great too; it melts into every nook and cranny, oozy and inviting.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley bring a bright, fragrant lift to the turkey; sprinkle generously, and you’ll get a fresh burst with each bite.
- Cream cheese: I add a smear for creaminess and a subtle tang, but Greek yogurt can swap in for a lighter feel—just keep it smooth and spreadable.
- Wraps: Whole wheat tortillas or large lettuce leaves—both hold well and add different textures; the tortilla offers a sturdy bite, while lettuce keeps it crisp and fresh.
- Seasonings: A pinch of salt, pepper, and maybe a dash of smoked paprika—these elevate the flavors without overshadowing the turkey’s natural savoriness.
- Optional extras: Nuts, cranberries, or sliced pickles—these add crunch, sweetness, or tang, making each roll uniquely yours. Just don’t overdo it; keep it balanced.
Spotlight on key ingredients
Turkey slices:
- I prefer using thin, deli-style slices that curl nicely when cooked; they get a little crispy around the edges, which adds a nice texture for you to enjoy.
- Cheese: I love a sharp cheddar for its tang, but a melty Swiss or provolone works great too; it melts into every nook and cranny, oozy and inviting.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley bring a bright, fragrant lift to the turkey; sprinkle generously, and you’ll get a fresh burst with each bite.
Cheese:
- Melts into the roll, creating a gooey, savory layer that makes each bite luscious and rich.
- Herbs: Release a fragrant aroma as they heat, adding a fresh, vibrant note that cuts through the richness.
- Softens and becomes slightly bubbly in the oven, giving a satisfying melt that holds everything together.
Notes for ingredient swaps
- Dairy-Free: Swap cream cheese for hummus or mashed avocado; adds creaminess but with a different flavor profile.
- Low-Sodium: Use unsalted turkey slices and skip added salt; keeps it gentle on the salt but retains flavor.
- Vegan: Try plant-based deli slices and vegan cheese; the texture and melt won’t be identical but still tasty.
- Gluten-Free: Use large lettuce leaves or gluten-free wraps instead of tortillas; keeps it light and fresh.
- Herb Variations: Use basil or chives instead of parsley or thyme; introduces new aromatic notes to the filling.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper; gives a lively heat that wakes up the palate.
- Sweet Touch: Mix in a few dried cranberries or sliced apple; adds a hint of sweetness and chew.
Equipment & Tools
- Baking dish: Holds the roll-ups during baking, ensures even heat distribution.
- Spread knife or spatula: Applies cream cheese or spreads evenly over slices.
- Sharp knife: Slices the roll-ups cleanly after baking.
- Toothpicks: Secures the roll shape if needed, preventing unrolling.
- Oven thermometer: Ensures accurate oven temperature for perfect baking.
Step-by-step guide to Turkey Roll Ups
- Gather all your ingredients and equipment. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Lay out turkey slices on a clean surface. If they’re cold and stiff, gently warm them for easier rolling.
- Spread a thin layer of cream cheese or your chosen spread on each turkey slice—get close to the edges but don’t overdo it.
- Add your fillings: a sprinkle of herbs, a slice of cheese, and any extras like nuts or cranberries. Keep it balanced, not overloaded.
- Starting from one end, carefully roll up each slice tightly, ensuring the filling stays inside. Use toothpicks if needed to hold the shape.
- Place the rolled-ups seam-side down in a baking dish. If using, brush lightly with olive oil for a golden finish.
- Bake in the oven for 15–20 minutes. The edges should turn slightly crispy and golden, and the cheese will be bubbly.
- While baking, prepare a quick sauce or garnish if desired—like a drizzle of balsamic or fresh herbs.
- Once out of the oven, let the roll-ups rest for 5 minutes. This helps the filling set and makes slicing easier.
- Slice into medallions if you like, or serve whole with your favorite sides. The edges should be slightly crisp, and fillings warm and gooey.
Let the roll-ups rest 5 minutes out of the oven to set. Serve whole or sliced, garnished with herbs or a drizzle of sauce for presentation.
How to Know It’s Done
- The edges are golden and slightly crispy.
- Cheese or filling is bubbling and hot.
- Center of the roll-ups reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).
Turkey Roll-Ups
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and gather all your ingredients.
- Lay out the turkey slices on a clean surface, keeping them flat and slightly overlapped if needed.
- Spread a thin layer of softened cream cheese over each turkey slice, covering most of the surface but leaving a small border around the edges.8 slices deli turkey slices
- Sprinkle chopped herbs evenly over the cream cheese, then layer slices of cheese and any optional extras like nuts or cranberries for added flavor and texture.8 slices deli turkey slices
- Starting from one end, carefully roll up each turkey slice tightly, making sure the filling stays inside. Use toothpicks to secure if necessary.
- Place the rolled-up turkey slices seam-side down in a baking dish lined with parchment or lightly greased.
- Brush the tops of the rolls lightly with olive oil to help them turn golden and crispy in the oven.8 slices deli turkey slices
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, until the edges are golden and cheese is bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let the roll-ups rest for 5 minutes to allow the filling to set before slicing.
- Slice the roll-ups into medallions or serve whole. Enjoy the crispy edges and gooey, cheesy interior with your favorite sides.
Pro tips for perfect Turkey Roll Ups
- Bolded mini-head: Start with cold fillings → Keep ingredients chilled until assembly to prevent melting and sliding.
- Bolded mini-head: Use toothpicks liberally → Secure rolls tightly, especially if fillings are loose or moist.
- Bolded mini-head: Watch oven closely → Check at 15 minutes; over-baking leads to dry, crispy edges, not melting cheese.
- Bolded mini-head: Baste with butter or oil → Brushed on before baking for golden, crispy edges with a savory sheen.
- Bolded mini-head: Let rest before slicing → Rest for 5 minutes for filling to set, avoiding messy spills and uneven cuts.
- Bolded mini-head: Use parchment for easy cleanup → Line your dish to prevent sticking and make post-bake cleanup smoother.
- Bolded mini-head: Experiment with fillings → Mix herbs, nuts, or fruits for personalized flavor boosts and textural contrast.
Common mistakes and how to fix them
- FORGOT to check oven temperature → Use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
- DUMPED too much filling → Keep fillings balanced to prevent spilling during rolling.
- OVER-TORCHED the roll-ups → Cover with foil if browning too fast, lower oven temp.
- MISSED resting time → Rest for 5 minutes to set fillings before slicing.
Quick fixes and pantry swaps
- When sauce shimmers, it’s ready—avoid overcooking the turkey roll ups.
- Splash a little broth if filling looks dry during reheating.
- Patch a torn wrap with a toothpick or toothpick substitute to keep fillings tight.
- DUMPED too much cheese? Use a paper towel to absorb excess before baking.
- If edges burn fast, shield with foil and reduce oven temperature slightly.
Prep, store, and reheat tips
- Prepare the roll-ups in advance by assembling and wrapping them tightly; store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, with the cheese developing a richer tang.
- Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. The turkey may lose some moisture, so reheat gently to avoid dryness—use a low oven (around 150°C/300°F) or microwave in short bursts, checking for warm, gooey cheese and a slight aroma of toasted herbs.
- For freezer storage, individually wrap the assembled roll-ups and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat as above. Expect slightly firmer texture and less fresh aroma, but still satisfying.
- Reheating will intensify the savory smell and soften the filling. Keep an eye on the cheese—overcooking can make it rubbery. Rest for a few minutes before slicing to help fillings set and avoid messy spills.
Top questions about Turkey Roll Ups
1. Can I use thicker turkey slices?
Use thin, deli-style turkey slices that curl easily and crisp up nicely when baked.
2. What if my turkey slices are too thick?
Yes, but thicker slices may require longer baking time and might not roll as tightly.
3. How do I soften cold turkey slices?
A quick microwave blast for 10-15 seconds can warm cold slices, making them easier to roll.
4. What’s the ideal baking time?
Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes until the edges are golden and cheese is bubbly.
5. How do I know when they’re done?
Check for golden, crispy edges, bubbling cheese, and internal temp of 75°C (165°F).
6. Can I make these in advance?
You can prepare the rolls a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
7. How long do leftovers keep?
Leftovers last up to 3 days in the fridge; reheat gently to keep the cheese gooey.
8. Can I freeze the roll ups?
Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months; reheat in low oven or microwave.
9. What if they burn or dry out?
To fix over-browning, tent with foil and lower oven temp slightly; for dry filling, add a splash of broth.
10. Any quick tips for cleanup?
Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking during baking.
These turkey roll ups are not just a quick fix; they remind me how simple ingredients can turn into something comforting and satisfying. Every time I make them, I appreciate the little moments—melty cheese, crispy edges, and the smell of herbs—that make a busy night feel a bit more special.
In times when I need a meal that’s easy but feels like an effort, these roll ups come through. They’re honest, unpolished, and perfect for turning leftovers into something worth savoring. That’s what makes them a staple in my kitchen.
Founded by Rachel Morgan, a proud home cook and foodie from Austin, Texas, this blog is all about transforming everyday meals into moments of joy.