Turkey Rollups with Pancakes Recipe
This creative and delicious recipe (Turkey Rollups with Pancakes) combines soft, fluffy pancakes with savory turkey and fresh veggies for a fun twist on a classic wrap. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep, these turkey rollups are kid-friendly, versatile, and packed with flavor.
Why You’ll Love These Turkey Rollups with Pancakes
- Sweet Meets Savory: The soft pancakes pair perfectly with savory turkey slices.
- Fun and Unique: A great way to elevate simple ingredients into something special.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, spreads, or cheese to make them your own.
- Perfect for On-the-Go: Easy to pack for school lunches, picnics, or work.
How to Make It
Making turkey rollups starts with pancakes as the base—lightly sweet but neutral enough to balance the savory fillings. You’ll spread a thin layer of creamy dressing or a spread of your choice, layer on tender turkey slices, fresh spinach, and shredded carrots, then roll them up tightly like a wrap.
Each rollup is sliced into bite-sized rounds or served whole for a handheld treat. The key is to make the pancakes pliable enough to roll without cracking but firm enough to hold the fillings.
These rollups are fun to make and even more fun to eat, and the flavor combination will have everyone reaching for seconds!
Stey by Step
Prepare the Pancakes
Whip up a batch of thin, soft pancakes. You can use your favorite pancake mix or make them from scratch. Ensure the pancakes are medium-sized (about 6 inches in diameter) and slightly thicker than crepes but thinner than traditional pancakes for easy rolling. Let the pancakes cool completely to prevent the spread or filling from melting.
Layer the Spread
Spread a thin layer of cream cheese, hummus, or mayonnaise over the pancake, stopping about ½ inch from the edges. This layer acts as a flavorful glue to hold everything together. For a sweet-savory combo, try a light swipe of honey mustard.
Add the Fillings
Lay 1-2 slices of deli turkey evenly over the pancake. Add a handful of baby spinach or lettuce for crunch and nutrition. Sprinkle with shredded carrots or finely sliced bell peppers for color and sweetness.
Roll It Up
Starting from one end, roll the pancake tightly while keeping the fillings tucked in. Slice the rolled pancake into pinwheels or leave it whole.
Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the rollups on a plate, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve as a fun appetizer or meal.
Make Ahead Method
Making these turkey rollups with pancakes ahead of time is not just convenient—it’s a lifesaver for busy days! Here’s how you can prepare each component in advance without compromising freshness or flavor:
Prepare the Pancakes in Advance
- Refrigeration: Make the pancakes up to 2 days ahead and store them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag in the refrigerator. Layer parchment or wax paper between pancakes to prevent sticking.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the pancakes. Place a sheet of parchment paper between each pancake, stack them, and seal them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. To reheat, defrost in the fridge overnight and warm them in a dry skillet for a minute or two.
Prep the Fillings
- Turkey: Keep deli turkey slices in their original packaging or transfer them to an airtight container. Use within 3-4 days of opening the package.
- Veggies: Wash and dry your spinach leaves and shred the carrots ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers or zip-top bags in the refrigerator.
- Spreads: If you’re using homemade spreads like hummus or flavored cream cheese, prepare them a day or two ahead and store them in a sealed container.
Assemble Ahead, But Not Too Early
- You can assemble the rollups up to 4 hours ahead of serving. Wrap each rollup tightly in plastic wrap to hold its shape and prevent drying out. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to slice or serve.
- Avoid Soggy Pancakes: To keep the pancakes from becoming soggy, use spreads sparingly and place a barrier layer like lettuce or spinach between the pancake and wetter fillings (like carrots or juicy turkey).
Pro Tips
Creating turkey rollups with pancakes is simple, but these tips will take your dish to the next level:
Master the Pancake Texture
- Soft but Not Fragile: Pancakes that are too thick will crack, and those that are too thin may tear. Aim for a texture similar to crepes, but slightly thicker for sturdiness.
- Even Cooking: Use a non-stick skillet and medium heat to cook your pancakes evenly. This prevents over-browning, which can make them less pliable.
Roll Tightly and Securely
- For a snug roll, gently press down on the fillings as you roll to ensure everything stays in place.
- If the rollups start to unravel, you can secure them with a toothpick until they’re ready to serve. Just remember to remove the toothpicks before serving!
Keep It Balanced
- Don’t overload the pancakes with fillings; too much can make them hard to roll and cause them to fall apart. Use a light hand with the spread and stick to a modest amount of veggies and turkey.
Customization is Key
- For Picky Eaters: Keep the fillings simple, using just turkey and cheese.
- For Bold Flavors: Add a layer of pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, or thinly sliced avocado.
- For Extra Crunch: Sprinkle on crushed nuts or seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
Presentation Matters
- If slicing into pinwheels, use a sharp knife to make clean cuts. Wipe the blade between slices for neat edges.
- Arrange the rollups on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant touch.
Store Smart
- To keep the pancakes pliable, avoid refrigeration for too long. If you must chill them, reheat gently to restore softness before rolling.
By following these make-ahead strategies and pro tips, your turkey rollups with pancakes will be an absolute crowd-pleaser every time!
Storage Options
- Refrigerator: Store assembled rollups in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Pancakes can be frozen separately in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Defrost and assemble as needed.
Tools for This Recipe
- Non-stick skillet or griddle for pancakes
- Spatula for flipping pancakes
- Sharp knife for slicing rollups
- Airtight containers for storing leftovers
FAQs!
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use gluten-free pancake mix or make gluten-free pancakes from scratch.
Q: What other spreads can I use?
A: Try pesto, tzatziki, or even avocado mash for unique flavors.
Q: Can I substitute the turkey?
A: Absolutely! Chicken, ham, or roasted veggies work well as alternatives.
Variations and Substitutions
- Veggie Rollups: Replace turkey with roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Sweet Twist: Swap savory fillings with cream cheese, fresh fruit, and a drizzle of honey for a dessert version.
- Add Herbs: Sprinkle fresh dill or parsley for a burst of flavor.
- Different Greens: Use arugula, kale, or mixed greens instead of spinach.
Conclusion
These Turkey Rollups with Pancakes are a delightful mix of sweet and savory, perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a quick snack, they’re sure to be a hit.
How did your rollups turn out? Share your tips, substitutions, or serving ideas in the comments—I’d love to hear from you! 😊
Turkey Rollups with Pancakes
Ingredients
- 8 medium-sized pancakes homemade or store-bought
- 8 slices deli turkey
- 1 cup baby spinach leaves
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- 4 tbsp cream cheese hummus, or mayo
- Optional: 4 slices of cheese provolone or cheddar
Instructions
- Prepare 8 medium-sized pancakes and let them cool.
- Spread 1 tbsp of your choice of spread over each pancake.
- Layer 1 slice of turkey, a few spinach leaves, and a sprinkle of shredded carrots on each pancake.
- Roll each pancake tightly, slice into pinwheels, or serve whole.