Super Easy and Delicious Pork, Mortadella and Cheese Rolls

Dinner plans feel a lot less dramatic when pork, cheese, and a hot oven are involved. These pork and cheese rolls are built around thin slices of pork wrapped around mortadella and cheese. They’re unfussy, weeknight-friendly, and can be served as a main with a quick side salad.

What Are Pork and Cheese Rolls?

With pork and cheese rolls, the pork acts as a protective outer layer, keeping the cheese soft and melty rather than runny. Mortadella adds gentle seasoning, and it’s a dish rooted in Italian-style flavor logic, that is, few ingredients, carefully layered, cooked simply.

Pro Tips for the Best Pork and Cheese Rolls

• Choose a cheese that melts well but holds its shape, like provolone, scamorza, or mozzarella.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking tray and leave space to allow heat to circulate, which helps the pork brown instead of steaming.
• Let the rolls rest for a few minutes after baking, so the juices redistribute before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare pork and cheese rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the rolls and keep them covered in the refrigerator. This makes them perfect for entertaining or busy evenings. Just add seasoning and olive oil right before baking. Avoid baking them ahead, as they’re best served fresh from the oven.

Why is my pork dry after baking?

Overcooking is the most common reason pork dries out. Thin pork slices cook quickly, so sticking to the recommended time is important. Adding olive oil and letting the rolls rest after baking also helps keep them juicy.

Can I cook these pork rolls in a pan instead of the oven?

Yes, they can be pan-seared, but baking is more forgiving and evenly cooks the filling. If pan-cooking, use medium heat and turn gently to avoid unrolling. Finish with a lid on the pan so the cheese melts properly. Oven baking remains the easiest method for consistent results.

How to Store Pork and Cheese Rolls

You can store pork and cheese rolls in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven, and microwaving is possible, but it may make the pork slightly tougher.

How to Make Pork Mortadella and Cheese Rolls

Step 1

Step 1

Lay a slice of mortadella flat on a cutting board, place a piece of cheese near one end, and roll it.

Lay a slice of mortadella flat on a cutting board, place a piece of cheese near one end, and roll it.

Step 2

Step 2

Place a pork loin slice on the board and position the mortadella-cheese in it. Roll the pork around it tightly, sealing the filling inside.

Place a pork loin slice on the board and position the mortadella-cheese in it. Roll the pork around it tightly, sealing the filling inside.

Step 3

Step 3

Arrange the rolls seam-side down on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Season with salt and pepper, then drizzle lightly with olive oil.

Arrange the rolls seam-side down on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Season with salt and pepper, then drizzle lightly with olive oil.

Step 4

Step 4

Bake at 190°C/374°F for 20 minutes, until the pork is cooked through.

Bake at 190°C/374°F for 20 minutes, until the pork is cooked through.

Step 5

Step 5

Transfer the pork and cheese rolls to a serving plate and enjoy.

Transfer the pork and cheese rolls to a serving plate and enjoy.