Name: Italian Pepperoni and Cream Cheese Pinwheels Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; ½ cup red pepper spread (like you would use as a sandwich spread); ½ cup pepperoncini or banana peppers, chopped; 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon coarse kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; 16 slices provolone cheese, thinly sliced; 16 slices salami or soppressata; 8 large flour tortillas (10 or 12 inch)

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Introduction

Italian Pinwheels are flavorful, easy-to-make appetizers perfect for parties or casual snacking. Combining creamy cheese, zesty peppers, and savory meats rolled inside soft tortillas, they offer a delightful burst of Italian-inspired taste in every bite.

The image shows several sandwich roll-ups stacked on a light wooden board with some green leafy lettuce underneath. Each roll-up has multiple visible layers starting with soft white tortilla wrap on the outside. Inside, there are layers of thinly sliced pink turkey, bright red tomato slices, green lettuce, and cream cheese spread, giving a mix of smooth and leafy textures. The roll-ups are cut in half diagonally, showing the colorful layers clearly in a spiral form. The background surface is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
½ cup red pepper spread (like you would use as a sandwich spread)
½ cup pepperoncini or banana peppers, chopped
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon coarse kosher salt
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
16 slices provolone cheese, thinly sliced
16 slices salami or soppressata
8 large flour tortillas (10 or 12 inch)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, red pepper spread, chopped peppers, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mash together until well mixed.
Step 2: Spread about ½ cup of the cream cheese mixture evenly over each tortilla, covering the entire surface up to the edges.
Step 3: At one end of each tortilla, layer two slices of provolone cheese and two slices of salami or soppressata.
Step 4: Roll each tortilla tightly into a log and wrap securely in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to overnight to firm up.
Step 5: Using a serrated knife, slice each roll into 1-inch pinwheels and arrange them on a serving platter.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier version, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture.
Try swapping salami with turkey or ham for a milder flavor.
Use whole wheat or spinach tortillas for added nutrition and color.
Make these ahead of time and keep chilled until serving for easy entertaining.

Storage

Store leftover pinwheels covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. They are best served cold or at room temperature and do not require reheating.

How to Serve

The image shows a white plate holding three tortilla pinwheel sandwiches, each rolled and secured with a toothpick. Each wrap has distinct layers visible from the side: a soft white tortilla on the outside, followed by a light spread, then thin layers of pink deli meat, green lettuce, and small bits of black olives, along with some red pepper slices. The pinwheels are stacked close together on a white marbled surface with a blurred background showing another plate with similar pinwheels. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare Italian pinwheels in advance?

Yes, these pinwheels can be made up to a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Chilling them helps them hold their shape and enhances the flavors.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely. While provolone is traditional, you can substitute mozzarella, cheddar, or your favorite sliced cheeses depending on your taste preferences.