Pickle Rollup Dip Recipe
This creamy dip blends tangy pickles, smoky ham, and rich cream cheese for a deliciously savory appetizer. Its perfect for parties, gatherings, or a tasty snack.
Ingredients
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups finely chopped dill pickles, plus more for garnish
- 3 tablespoons pickle brine from the jar
- 1 cup chopped smoked deli ham
- Wavy sea salt kettle chips or sour cream and onion kettle chips, for garnish and serving
Directions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients to ensure everything is ready for preparation.
- In a medium-sized bowl, stir the cream cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add the chopped dill pickles, pickle brine, and smoked deli ham to the cream cheese. Mix everything together until fully combined and smooth.
- Loosely cover the bowl and let it sit at room temperature for about 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Once the dip is ready to serve, garnish with extra dill pickles and a generous serving of kettle chips.
- Serve immediately with more chips on the side for dipping and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Calories | 102 |
| Total Fat | 8g (10%) |
| Saturated Fat | 4g (20%) |
| Cholesterol | 27mg (9%) |
| Sodium | 524mg (23%) |
| Total Carbohydrate | 3g (1%) |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g (1%) |
| Total Sugars | 2g |
| Protein | 5g (9%) |
| Vitamin C | 1mg (1%) |
| Calcium | 27mg (2%) |
| Iron | 0mg (1%) |
| Potassium | 161mg (3%) |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Origin and History of Pickle Rollup Dip
The Pickle Rollup Dip is a creative twist on a popular American snack that combines the tanginess of dill pickles with the richness of cream cheese and smoked deli ham. The origins of this dip can be traced back to the love of pickle rollups, a snack where dill pickles are wrapped in slices of ham or other deli meats. This bite-sized version has been transformed into a creamy dip, making it an easy and crowd-pleasing appetizer.
The concept of combining pickles with cream cheese has been a staple in American kitchens for decades, particularly in the southern states, where pickles are often paired with savory ingredients for flavor balance. This dip serves as a modern evolution of that tradition, simplifying the process while enhancing the taste profile with the addition of deli meats and tangy pickle brine.
Regional Variations
While this pickle rollup dip has become a favorite across the United States, regional variations often include different types of deli meats or cheese. In some parts of the South, for example, people might incorporate spicy sausage or even add a dash of hot sauce to give the dip an extra kick. Similarly, some recipes use a blend of cheddar and cream cheese for a more robust flavor, especially in areas where cheese dips are a popular snack.
In the Midwest, where the love of dill pickles is particularly strong, the dip may be served alongside freshly baked bread or crackers instead of chips. The combination of pickles with a variety of meats and cheeses reflects the region's appreciation for hearty and savory snacks that bring people together.
How It Differs from Similar Dishes
At first glance, Pickle Rollup Dip may seem similar to other creamy dips, such as the classic ham and cheese dip or even a simple pickle dip. However, what sets this dish apart is its use of pickle brine, which adds an extra layer of tangy flavor, and the incorporation of finely chopped smoked deli ham, which provides both texture and a savory depth. The traditional pickle rollup typically uses whole dill pickles wrapped in ham, but this dip version offers a smoother, more cohesive texture, ideal for dipping.
In contrast to other dips, such as spinach or onion dips, this recipe focuses on simplicity and the unique contrast between the salty ham and tangy pickles. The addition of potato chips, particularly wavy sea salt kettle chips, elevates the dip further by offering a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy texture.
Where It's Commonly Served
Pickle Rollup Dip is a versatile appetizer that can be served at a variety of occasions. It's particularly popular at casual gatherings, barbecues, and tailgates, where guests appreciate easy-to-serve, crowd-pleasing snacks. It's also a favorite at holiday parties and potlucks, where it can be made ahead of time and served chilled or at room temperature.
Beyond home kitchens, this dip is often featured on appetizer menus at casual dining establishments, particularly in American diners and sports bars. Its simple ingredients and bold flavors make it an ideal snack for sharing while enjoying a cold drink or watching a game.
Fun Facts About Pickle Rollup Dip
1. Pickles are one of America's most popular snack foods, with the average American consuming over 9 pounds of pickles annually. Dill pickles, in particular, are a classic favorite, and their brine is often used in recipes like this one to infuse dishes with a salty, tangy kick.
2. The concept of pickle rollups dates back to the 1950s, when Americans began experimenting with pairing pickles and deli meats as a snack or appetizer. The Pickle Rollup Dip takes that idea one step further by turning the snack into a creamy dip that's perfect for dipping chips, crackers, or vegetables.
3. In recent years, pickle-flavored products have become a food trend, with everything from pickle-flavored popcorn to pickle-flavored potato chips gaining popularity. This dip fits perfectly into that trend, offering pickle lovers a new way to indulge in their favorite flavor combination.