Steak Pinwheels

These steak pinwheels are a perfect balance of savory, creamy, and rich flavors wrapped in tender beef. The creamy spinach and garlic filling complements the juicy steak perfectly, making every bite incredibly satisfying.

Whether you’re preparing a family meal or hosting guests, these pinwheels will impress with their elegant presentation and bold flavors. They can be served alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Perfect for any occasion, they bring an extra touch of gourmet to your dinner table.

Full Recipe:

  • 4 flank steak slices
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Lay the steak slices flat on a clean surface and tenderize them if necessary using a meat mallet.
  3. In a bowl, combine cream cheese, spinach, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each steak slice.
  5. Roll the steak slices into tight pinwheels and secure them with toothpicks.
  6. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
  7. Add the steak pinwheels to the skillet and sear for about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  8. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the steak reaches desired doneness.
  9. Remove the pinwheels from the oven, discard toothpicks, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes

Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Steak Pinwheels: A Gourmet Delight Perfect for Any Occasion

Steak pinwheels are a fantastic dish that combines the savory flavors of beef with a creamy, herb-filled filling. The concept behind this dish is simple but effective—thinly sliced steaks are rolled up with a delicious stuffing, creating a visually appealing and mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even as an impressive meal for guests.

What Are Steak Pinwheels?

Steak pinwheels, sometimes known as stuffed steak rolls, are made by taking flat cuts of beef (typically flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye) and filling them with a variety of flavorful ingredients. These fillings can include everything from spinach, garlic, cheese, and herbs, to more adventurous additions like sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or even bacon. Once filled, the steak is rolled up into a pinwheel shape and then cooked until tender and flavorful.

The combination of the rich, juicy steak and the creamy filling makes for an unforgettable dish that can be tailored to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Whether you prefer a simple filling with garlic and cheese, or something more complex with herbs, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, steak pinwheels can be customized to suit your culinary desires.

The Origin of Steak Pinwheels

The concept of rolling up meat with fillings is not unique to steak pinwheels. Many cultures have a history of stuffing meats with various ingredients to enhance flavor and texture. In Italy, for example, you’ll find “involtini,” which are thinly sliced meats (usually veal or beef) stuffed with herbs, cheese, and sometimes prosciutto. Similarly, in Middle Eastern cuisine, there are dishes like kebabs and shawarma, where meats are marinated, stuffed, and rolled for grilling.

Steak pinwheels, as a dish, is more of a modern American take on these traditional stuffed meat rolls. The idea of using a beef steak, often a more affordable cut like flank steak, and stuffing it with rich, flavorful ingredients is a popular choice for home cooks and chefs alike. It’s a versatile dish that can be prepared in numerous ways, making it a beloved option for those looking to impress at dinner parties or simply elevate a weeknight meal.

Why Choose Steak Pinwheels?

Steak pinwheels are a great meal choice for several reasons. First and foremost, they are incredibly versatile. The filling options are almost endless, which means you can make them as simple or as sophisticated as you like. If you’re cooking for a crowd, you can easily adjust the fillings to suit different tastes—perhaps using a basic garlic and herb stuffing for some, and a richer filling with spinach and cheese for others.

Another reason steak pinwheels are such a great option is that they are easy to prepare and cook. While the pinwheels look like a gourmet dish, they’re actually relatively simple to put together. The steak is usually tenderized before being rolled up, making it easier to work with and ensuring that the dish remains juicy and flavorful. Plus, it’s a dish that cooks relatively quickly, especially when pan-seared and finished in the oven.

Moreover, steak pinwheels are visually striking. When the pinwheels are sliced, they reveal a beautifully layered cross-section of steak, filling, and any herbs or cheese you’ve added. This presentation makes the dish look far more complicated than it really is, making it a perfect option when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Steak Pinwheel Variations

One of the greatest things about steak pinwheels is the ability to experiment with different fillings and flavor profiles. The traditional approach is to use a combination of cream cheese, spinach, garlic, and Parmesan, but there are so many ways to make the dish your own.

  1. Garlic and Herb Steak Pinwheels: A simple and classic option, garlic and herb steak pinwheels are made by combining minced garlic, fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley, and a bit of olive oil. This filling complements the rich flavor of the steak without overpowering it, creating a balanced and delicious meal.
  2. Cheese and Spinach Steak Pinwheels: For a creamier and richer option, you can stuff your steak with a mixture of spinach and cheese. Popular choices include ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. This combination adds creaminess and texture, making each bite incredibly satisfying.
  3. Bacon-Wrapped Steak Pinwheels: For those who love a bit of indulgence, wrapping the pinwheels in bacon is a game-changer. The crispy bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch to the steak and complements the rich filling beautifully.
  4. Mushroom and Swiss Steak Pinwheels: For a more earthy flavor, adding sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese makes for a delicious filling. The earthy taste of mushrooms pairs wonderfully with the savory beef, and the Swiss cheese adds a mild, nutty flavor.
  5. Sun-Dried Tomato and Pesto Steak Pinwheels: For a Mediterranean twist, consider filling your pinwheels with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil pesto, and mozzarella cheese. The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy, slightly sweet flavor, while the pesto brings a punch of herbal freshness.

Cooking and Serving Suggestions

Steak pinwheels are often pan-seared for a few minutes on each side to develop a beautiful golden-brown crust before being finished in the oven. This method ensures that the meat remains juicy while the filling gets fully cooked. The pinwheels can also be grilled for a smoky flavor or slow-cooked for even more tender results.

When it comes to serving, steak pinwheels pair well with a wide variety of sides. For a simple, healthy meal, serve the pinwheels with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. For a heartier option, try pairing them with mashed potatoes, garlic bread, or even a creamy risotto. Since the pinwheels are often stuffed with cheese and herbs, you can complement them with a refreshing, tangy side dish like a cucumber salad or a light tomato and mozzarella salad.

Why Steak Pinwheels Make the Perfect Special Occasion Meal

Steak pinwheels are not only a fantastic option for family meals, but they also make an excellent choice for special occasions. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or hosting a dinner party, steak pinwheels offer an elegant and satisfying dish that’s sure to impress your guests.

The dish is sophisticated in both flavor and presentation, making it ideal for serving to company. The beautiful spiral of steak and filling gives it an upscale appearance, and because they are so versatile, you can adapt the flavors to suit any occasion—whether you’re looking for something more traditional or something with a bit of flair.

Steak Pinwheels

Conclusion: The Versatility and Appeal of Steak Pinwheels

Steak pinwheels are the perfect combination of simplicity and elegance. The dish offers endless opportunities for customization, making it ideal for all kinds of tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you prefer a classic garlic and herb filling or a more inventive combination like sun-dried tomatoes and pesto, there’s a version of steak pinwheels that’s perfect for you.

Not only are they quick and easy to prepare, but they also create an impressive and visually stunning meal that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Whether you’re preparing them for a weeknight dinner, a holiday celebration, or a gathering with friends, steak pinwheels are a sure-fire way to elevate your cooking and wow your guests. Their versatility, flavor, and gorgeous presentation make them a dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Steak pinwheels are a dish that’s here to stay. Their rich flavor, tender texture, and beautiful presentation will continue to make them a favorite in kitchens around the world. So, next time you’re looking to impress, or just want a flavorful meal that’s easy to make, give steak pinwheels a try—you won’t regret it!

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Steak Pinwheels


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  • Author: Alice
  • Total Time: 35 minutes

Description

These steak pinwheels are a perfect balance of savory, creamy, and rich flavors wrapped in tender beef. The creamy spinach and garlic filling complements the juicy steak perfectly, making every bite incredibly satisfying.

Whether you’re preparing a family meal or hosting guests, these pinwheels will impress with their elegant presentation and bold flavors. They can be served alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Perfect for any occasion, they bring an extra touch of gourmet to your dinner table.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 4 flank steak slices
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Lay the steak slices flat on a clean surface and tenderize them if necessary using a meat mallet.
  3. In a bowl, combine cream cheese, spinach, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each steak slice.
  5. Roll the steak slices into tight pinwheels and secure them with toothpicks.
  6. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
  7. Add the steak pinwheels to the skillet and sear for about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  8. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the steak reaches desired doneness.
  9. Remove the pinwheels from the oven, discard toothpicks, and garnish with fresh parsley.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes

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