Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite snack: Hot Turkey and Cheese Pinwheel Rolls! These delightful little bites of goodness have become a staple in my kitchen, and honestly, they never fail to make me and my friends swoon. I remember the first time I made them for a game night – the moment I pulled them out of the oven, the aroma filled the air, and everyone practically sprinted to the kitchen. We devoured them in no time, and they quickly became the must-have dish for any of our gatherings!
What I love most about these pinwheels is their versatility. They’re super easy to whip up, and you can customize them based on what you have on hand. Want to add some spinach? Go for it! Have leftover ham instead of turkey? No problem! They’re really a blank canvas for whatever deliciousness you can dream up.
What’s in Hot Turkey and Cheese Pinwheel Rolls?
Crescent Roll Dough: This flaky, buttery dough is the perfect base for our pinwheels. It’s convenient because it’s pre-made—just pop it open and roll it out! I’m a fan of the Pillsbury brand, but any good refrigerated crescent dough will do.
Deli Turkey: I use sliced deli turkey, which adds a savory, hearty bite. Go for the best quality you can find; I often reach for the oven-roasted variety to get that rich flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Whether you use sliced or shredded, cheddar adds a creamy texture and a tang that pairs beautifully with the turkey. Sharp cheddar is my go-to for that zesty kick.
Cream Cheese: This is what brings it all together. Softened cream cheese not only adds richness but also acts as a delicious glue for all the other ingredients.
Fresh Parsley (optional): Adding a pop of color and freshness, parsley also deepens the flavor. If you have it, toss some in, but if not, no worries!
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These two spices add aromatic goodness and elevate the flavor profile—trust me, they make all the difference!
Poppy Seeds (for garnish): Although optional, the poppy seeds not only give a lovely crunch but also a visual flair to the pinwheels.
Is Hot Turkey and Cheese Pinwheel Rolls Good for You?
Absolutely! While these pinwheels are a treat, they do have some healthful qualities.
Turkey: Packed with protein and low in fat, turkey is a lean choice that fills you up without weighing you down. It’s a great way to get some nutrients while satisfying your snack cravings.
Cream Cheese: While it adds creaminess and flavor, keep portion sizes in check if you’re watching your saturated fat intake. There are lower-fat varieties available too.
Parsley: This little herb is actually quite nutritious! Parsley is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, plus it adds fiber.
However, if you’re conscious about sodium, you might want to opt for low-sodium turkey and skip additional salt wherever it’s not vital.
Ingredients List
– 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
– 8 oz deli turkey, sliced
– 4 oz cheddar cheese, sliced or shredded
– 2 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp poppy seeds (for garnish)
– Salt and pepper to taste
*Servings:* About 12 pinwheels
How to Make Hot Turkey and Cheese Pinwheel Rolls?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Unroll the crescent roll dough on a lightly floured surface, and press the seams together to make one single rectangle.
3. Spread the softened cream cheese evenly over the dough. It’s going to become all melty and delicious!
4. Layer the sliced turkey on top of the cream cheese, followed by the cheddar cheese.
5. Sprinkle the garlic powder and onion powder, then season with salt, pepper, and chopped parsley if you’re using it.
6. Start from one end and carefully roll the dough tightly, forming it into a log. The tighter the roll, the prettier the pinwheels will be!
7. Slice the rolled dough into 1-inch pinwheels and place them cut side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
8. If you’d like, sprinkle poppy seeds on top for that extra flair!
9. Bake these beauties in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and oozy with melted cheese.
10. Let them cool slightly before serving because, trust me, they will be hot!
Fun Twist on the Classic
These pinwheel roll-ups can be served warm or at room temperature, making them super versatile for parties or just a quick snack at home. You could experiment with other fillings like sautéed spinach, ham, or even different kinds of cheese, like pepper jack for a bit of heat. One of my favorite variations is adding some jalapeño slices for a spicy kick!
Now, go ahead and give these Hot Turkey and Cheese Pinwheel Rolls a try! I promise they’ll disappear just as fast as they did at my game night. Don’t forget to let me know how yours turn out—I’d love to hear your creative twists! Enjoy!
