Looking for the perfect make-ahead appetizer or lunchbox treat?
These Italian pinwheel sandwiches check every box—creamy, tangy, cheesy, and packed with flavor in every bite.
Rolled up in soft flour tortillas with rich cream cheese and layers of salami and provolone, they’re as fun to eat as they are to serve.
Every time I bring these to a gathering, they disappear in minutes—and there are always recipe requests.
Why I Love This Recipe
No baking required – Just mix, roll, and chill
Bursting with Italian flavor – Thanks to red pepper spread and seasonings
Super portable – Perfect for picnics, parties, or grab-and-go lunches
Creamy and zesty – Balanced with cheese, peppers, and spice
Easy to prep ahead – Ideal for hosting or meal prep
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Cream cheese – Softened for easy mixing and a rich, creamy base
Red pepper spread – Adds bold, savory sweetness
Pepperoncini or banana peppers – For that tangy crunch and kick
Italian seasoning blend – Delivers instant herb flavor
Provolone cheese – Mild and melty, perfect for layering
Salami or soppressata – Classic deli meat with bold flavor
Flour tortillas – Use large 10–12″ ones for easy rolling
Pro Tips Before You Start
Soften cream cheese – Let it sit at room temp for 30 minutes
Drain peppers well – Extra moisture can make tortillas soggy
Use plastic wrap – It helps hold the shape while chilling
Chill fully – This sets the filling and makes slicing cleaner
Use a serrated knife – It cuts through layers cleanly without smashing
How to Make Italian Pinwheel Sandwiches
Step 1: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, red pepper spread, chopped peppers, Italian seasoning, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
Mash or stir until fully mixed.
Step 2: Spread the Mixture
Spread a generous layer (about ½ cup) of the cream cheese filling over each tortilla, spreading all the way to the edges.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Meat
Place two slices of provolone and two slices of salami (or soppressata) at one end of each tortilla.
Step 4: Roll and Chill
Roll each tortilla tightly from the meat/cheese end.
Wrap each roll in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour or overnight.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Unwrap and slice each roll into 1-inch rounds using a serrated knife.
Arrange on a platter and serve cold.
What to Serve It With
A simple green salad or antipasto platter
Olives, roasted red peppers, or marinated artichokes
Crackers or crostini for extra crunch
Sparkling lemonade or iced tea
A side of tomato soup for a cozy lunch pairing
Variations / Substitutions
Use turkey or ham instead of salami
Swap provolone with mozzarella or Swiss
Add spinach or arugula for freshness
Use roasted red pepper hummus instead of cream cheese for a vegan twist
Add sun-dried tomatoes or black olives for extra flavor
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerate – Store tightly wrapped rolls or slices in an airtight container up to 3 days
Make ahead – Best if made a day in advance for flavor and firmness
Do not freeze – The texture of cream cheese and tortillas won’t hold up
Serve chilled – These are best cold straight from the fridge
Re-wrap leftovers – Use plastic wrap or beeswax wrap to keep them fresh
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! They’re best when chilled for at least an hour, so making them a day ahead works great.
What’s a good substitute for red pepper spread?
Try roasted red pepper hummus or sun-dried tomato spread.
Can I use gluten-free tortillas?
Absolutely. Just be gentle when rolling, as they’re more fragile.
Do I have to use salami?
No—any sliced deli meat works. Turkey, ham, or even veggie slices are great options.
Can I freeze these?
Freezing isn’t recommended. The texture of the cream cheese and tortillas may turn soggy.
What if I don’t like spicy food?
Use mild banana peppers or skip them altogether for a gentler flavor.
How do I keep them from unrolling?
Chill the wraps tightly rolled in plastic wrap. The cream cheese acts like glue once set.
Final Thoughts
These Italian pinwheel sandwiches are the kind of crowd-pleaser you’ll turn to again and again.
They’re quick to make, easy to customize, and packed with flavor in every bite.
Whether you serve them as a party appetizer, picnic lunch, or quick snack, they’re always a hit—and they look just as good as they taste.
Flavor-Packed Italian Pinwheel Sandwiches
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- ½ cup red pepper spread
- ½ cup chopped pepperoncini or banana peppers
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon 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 10–12 inch
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, red pepper spread, chopped peppers
- Italian seasoning, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until well combined.
- Spread about ½ cup of mixture evenly over each tortilla.
- Place 2 slices of cheese and 2 slices of salami at one end of each tortilla.
- Roll tightly and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Slice into 1-inch pinwheels using a serrated knife. Serve cold.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://wimpysdiner.net/italian-pinwheel-sandwiches/
Notes
- Swap in turkey or ham for a milder version.
- Use flavored tortillas (spinach, tomato basil) for color and extra taste.
