Copycat Costco Pinwheels

Every party needs a tray of Costco Pinwheels, so why not make them from scratch with a few simple ingredients? They come together in just 15 minutes and are ready to eat in under an hour — and if you run out, you can just make more! Delicious for a light dinner or a make-ahead lunch too.

Costco Pinwheels

Party food is some of my favorite food, and Costco turkey pinwheels are always near the top of the list. They’re like little sandwiches but in a cute spiral pattern and easy-to-eat rounds.

So when I found out I could make them myself… what a game changer!!

The flavors are so fresh and the creamy, chewy, and crunchy texture combination is so satisfying. It’s no wonder these always disappear off the table first.

Whether it’s a casual game day or a more elegant luncheon, I can always count on these turkey and cheese rollups with ‘pink stuff’ (according to Munchkin) to keep everyone happy.

Pair with my famous veggie pizza appetizer and some cheesy cauliflower bites for a delicious spread that won’t weigh you down! 

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

• Cream Cheese – A full-fat block will give you the best flavor. Soften it on the counter first to make mixing easier.
  
• Whole Cranberry Sauce – This adds extra texture compared to the jelly-like version, though you can use that instead.
  
  Homemade would work too, though it’s best to make it with water instead of orange juice if you plan to use it in this recipe.
  
• Flour Tortillas – Use large, burrito-size tortillas to make your Costco pinwheels. Keep them at room temperature so they stay pliable, or warm them quickly in the microwave if they’ve been in the fridge.
  
  For a different flavor, try spinach, whole wheat, or sun-dried tomato tortillas.
  
• Romaine Lettuce – Just the leafy part, not the crunchy stem. You can leave the part that runs down the middle if it isn’t too thick.
  
  Fresh spinach leaves would also be yummy!
  
• Roasted Turkey – Get this from the deli department and ask them to slice it thinly for you.
  
• Swiss Cheese – Same here! You’re guaranteed evenly sliced cheese at the deli counter — I can never get it all the same thickness at home.
  
  Cheddar and provolone are popular alternatives, or try Pepper Jack for a spicy kick!
  
• Tomatoes – Roma and Beefsteak are meatier with fewer seeds and less liquid than other varieties.
  
  If you’re using a juicier tomato, pat it dry to remove excess moisture and keep your pinwheels from getting soggy.

Tips and Tricks to Make Perfect Costco Pinwheel Sandwiches

• Divide up the ingredients for easier assembly.

All you’ll need to do is grab each thing as you go instead of stopping to measure out the right amount.

Many other recipes would have you layer ingredients down the center of the tortilla, but then you’ll end up with uneven rolls.

Instead, spread the cream cheese and cranberry mixture all the way to the edges — this makes it easier to seal the tortilla.

Then, arrange the lettuce, meat, and tomato evenly over the surface. The exception is the cheese slice, which goes right in the middle.

• Roll from the side with the least filling.

This helps create a tighter roll that holds together so much better! You don’t want any gaps in the spiral or everything will fall out when sliced.

I also like to assemble my Costco turkey roll ups right on top of the plastic wrap or parchment. That way, I can wrap it immediately instead of trying to tear off a piece while holding the tortilla shut.

Otherwise, rest the tortilla roll seam side down on the counter or have a kitchen helper handy.

• Chill for at least 30 minutes.

And wrap your Costco turkey roll ups tightly with the plastic wrap! This keeps the spiral shape secure so it won’t unroll when it’s time to slice.

The spread will also firm up when chilled, acting as a sort of glue to hold everything together.

Prep Ahead

• Mix cream cheese and cranberry sauce
• Wash and dry lettuce
• Slice tomatoes

Kitchen Tools You Will Need

• Mixing Bowl – I like to have a variety of sizes on hand, and this set has them all.
• Cutting Board – A big solid cutting board makes prepping a breeze. I use mine daily, so it’s worth the investment to get a good quality one.
• Serrated Bread Knife – This is the best tool for slicing Costco pinwheel sandwiches without squashing them. Use it for the tomatoes too!
• Plastic Wrap or Parchment Paper helps the rolled tortilla hold its shape while chilling.

Customization Ideas

It’s all about the layering, so there’s no reason you can’t toss a few extra things in there!

Crispy bacon or some sliced deli ham would create a Club sandwich-type flavor, or swap the sliced turkey with shredded rotisserie chicken for a heartier bite.

For more texture, include creamy avocado, roasted red pepper, or cucumber slices in your Costco pinwheel sandwiches. Thinly slice the cucumber to make rolling easier — a mandoline helps with this!

Storing Costco Turkey Roll Ups

To get a jump on party prep, assemble the roll ups and store them in the refrigerator a day ahead of time. Wait to slice them until just before serving.

Once sliced, Costco pinwheels can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Store them in an airtight container, and place a damp paper towel on top before sealing to help keep them fresh.

You could also store them in the fridge unsliced for meal prep. Grab one tortilla roll up each day and slice for lunch or a snack!

Costco Turkey Pinwheels FAQ

Enjoy!

With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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Originally published May 2025

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