Ingredients
For 12 ham rolls, you will need:
- 12 slices of deli ham (approx. 3 oz each, preferably nitrate-free)
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened, full-fat)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for extra flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt (optional, depending on the saltiness of the ham)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- 1/4 cup almond flour (for optional coating, adds extra crispiness)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)
Optional for serving: Low-carb dipping sauce such as sugar-free marinara, ranch, or a mustard-based dip.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: ~40 minutes
- Servings: 12 rolls
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This ensures that your ham rolls will bake evenly without sticking and makes cleanup much easier.
2. Soften the Cream Cheese
In a medium bowl, take 4 oz of cream cheese and allow it to soften at room temperature for 5–10 minutes. Softened cream cheese spreads more easily and helps the rolls hold together without tearing the ham.
3. Mix the Filling
Add shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup) to the softened cream cheese. Then incorporate minced garlic, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a creamy, cohesive filling. If you like, add a tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley for an herby aroma.
4. Prepare the Ham
Lay out 12 slices of ham on a clean cutting board. If the slices are thick, you may want to gently flatten them with a rolling pin or the back of a pan to make them more pliable.
5. Fill the Ham Slices
Evenly spread approximately 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture onto each ham slice. Leave a small border along one edge to help seal the rolls.
6. Roll the Ham
Starting from one end, carefully roll each ham slice tightly to encase the filling. The roll should be compact to ensure it doesn’t unravel during baking.
7. Optional Almond Flour Coating
For an extra crispy exterior, lightly sprinkle 1/4 cup almond flour over the rolls or roll them in the almond flour before placing them on the baking sheet. This adds a golden, crunchy texture while keeping the recipe keto-friendly.
8. Brush with Olive Oil
Using a pastry brush, lightly brush each roll with 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter. This step ensures a crispy, golden-brown finish while baking.
9. Bake the Rolls
Place the prepared rolls on the lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the cheese has melted and slightly oozed out.
10. Broil for Extra Crispiness
For an even crispier finish, turn on the broiler for the last 1–2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. The rolls should have a lightly caramelized exterior with a soft, creamy interior.
11. Cool Slightly
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the ham rolls to cool for 3–5 minutes. This step allows the filling to firm slightly, making the rolls easier to handle.
12. Serve Warm
Arrange the Keto Crispy Ham Rolls on a serving platter. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm alongside a keto-friendly dipping sauce or enjoy them as is.
13. Storage Instructions
Store leftover ham rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to regain their crispiness. These rolls can also be frozen individually for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
14. Meal Prep Friendly
This recipe is ideal for meal prep. You can prepare the rolls in advance, refrigerate, and bake just before serving. This makes them perfect for busy mornings, quick snacks, or easy lunchbox additions.
15. Tips for Best Results
- Use nitrate-free ham to reduce processed ingredients.
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to prevent tearing the ham when spreading.
- Don’t overfill the ham slices; too much cheese can ooze out and create a mess during baking.
- Use a silicone mat for even baking and easy cleanup.
- Experiment with different herbs or spices such as oregano, thyme, or red pepper flakes to adjust the flavor profile.
16. Variations
- Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella for cheddar, pepper jack, or Gruyère.
- Protein Options: Use turkey slices instead of ham for a leaner alternative.
- Stuffing Add-Ins: Add sautéed spinach, diced bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes to the cheese mixture.
17. Keto and Low-Carb Benefits
Each roll contains approximately:
- Net Carbs: 2 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Calories: 120 kcal
These rolls are perfect for keto, low-carb, or diabetic meal plans.
18. Weight Watchers SmartPoints
- WW SmartPoints: 3 points per roll (based on standard WW Blue/Green plan)
- Using full-fat cheese and ham keeps points low while providing protein and satisfying fats.
19. Nutritional Summary (Per Roll)
| Nutrient | Amount per Roll |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Total Fat | 8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 2 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Net Carbs | 2 g |
| Sodium | 380 mg |
20. Final Notes
These Keto Crispy Ham Rolls are versatile, easy to make, and perfect for anyone following a low-carb or ketogenic lifestyle. They combine the savory flavor of ham with creamy, melty cheese, offering a satisfying texture with every bite. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or part of a meal, these rolls are guaranteed to impress both keto enthusiasts and casual eaters alike.
Low in carbs, high in protein, and incredibly flavorful, this recipe proves that ketogenic meals can be both indulgent and healthy. With simple ingredients, minimal prep, and quick baking, these rolls are a must-have in your recipe collection.