Steak Pinwheels

If you’re looking for a dish that impresses without the fuss, these steak pinwheels are just the ticket! They’re not only delicious but also visually stunning and perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, steak pinwheels bring a touch of gourmet flair to your table. The combination of tender flank steak, savory cheese, and vibrant vegetables will have everyone asking for seconds!

What makes this recipe even better is its adaptability. You can prep it ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for meal prep or last-minute gatherings. Trust me; once you try these steak pinwheels, they’ll become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll feel like a pro in the kitchen!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the flavors packed into each bite.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can marinate the steak the night before, saving you time on busy days.
• Impressive Presentation: These pinwheels look beautiful on a platter, making them perfect for entertaining.
• Full of Flavor: The mix of spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and cheese creates a delightful taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple and wholesome components that blend together beautifully. Here’s what you need to make these scrumptious steak pinwheels:

For the Marinade

• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 1/3 cup apple vinegar
• 1/3 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 1 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced and divided
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Filling

• 1 (2-pound) flank steak, pounded to 1/2 inch thickness
• 1/3 cup chopped onion
• 1/3 cup fine dry bread crumbs
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
• 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained

Variations

This steak pinwheel recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some tasty variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breast or turkey cutlets instead of flank steak for a lighter option.
• Change up the greens: If spinach isn’t your favorite, kale or arugula can add a unique twist to your filling.
• Add different cheeses: Experiment with feta or goat cheese for a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
• Spice it up: Add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to give your pinwheels an extra kick!

How to Make Steak Pinwheels

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by whisking together olive oil, soy sauce, apple vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, one minced garlic clove, Italian seasoning, and black pepper in a bowl. This marinade infuses flavor into every bite of your steak pinwheels. It’s like giving the meat a warm hug of deliciousness!

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

Using a sharp knife, make shallow diagonal cuts about 1 inch apart across the surface of the flank steak. This helps the marinade penetrate better. Place the steak in a large resealable bag and pour in the marinade. Seal it tightly and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes!

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 350°Fahrenheit. This ensures that your steak cooks evenly throughout while allowing all those wonderful flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Paste

Remove the steak from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. Discard any leftover marinade so we don’t overwhelm our flavors. On your cutting board, sprinkle salt over one minced garlic clove and mash them together with the flat side of your knife until you have a paste. Spreading this over your flank steak adds a lovely depth of flavor.

Step 5: Assemble Your Pinwheels

Sprinkle chopped onion and bread crumbs over that delicious garlic paste. Layer fresh spinach leaves on top followed by shredded Swiss cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes—each ingredient adds its own special touch!

Step 6: Roll It Up

Starting at one end of the flank steak, carefully roll it up tightly around all those fabulous fillings. Secure your roll with kitchen twine or toothpicks at roughly one-inch intervals—this helps keep everything snug while baking.

Step 7: Bake

Place your rolled-up masterpiece seam-side down in a baking dish and bake uncovered for about an hour. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches at least 145°Fahrenheit—this is key for perfectly cooked meat!

Step 8: Rest Before Slicing

Once baked to perfection, let your pinwheels rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows all those savory juices to settle back into each slice when you cut them.

Step 9: Slice & Serve

Slice into one-inch thick pinwheels and serve hot. Watch as everyone gathers around to enjoy these flavorful creations—they’re sure to be gone before you know it!

Pro Tips for Making Steak Pinwheels

Creating delicious steak pinwheels can be simple and rewarding with the right tricks up your sleeve! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allowing the flank steak to marinate overnight infuses it with flavor and tenderizes the meat, making each bite a delightful experience.
• Cut Evenly: When rolling the steak, make sure to keep the filling evenly distributed. This ensures that every slice has a balanced mix of all the tasty ingredients, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
• Use Kitchen Twine: Securing the rolled steak with kitchen twine helps maintain its shape while baking. This prevents any potential unraveling during cooking, resulting in beautifully presented pinwheels.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Letting the pinwheels rest after baking allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy and flavorful. It also makes slicing easier as the filling is less likely to spill out.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative with your fillings! Adding different vegetables or cheeses can personalize your steak pinwheels to suit your taste preferences or use what you have on hand.

How to Serve Steak Pinwheels

When it comes to serving steak pinwheels, presentation is key! These beautiful rolls can be served in various ways that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the dish.
• Lemon wedges: Placing lemon wedges on the side not only adds brightness but also allows your guests to squeeze a little zest over their pinwheels for added flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy and buttery garlic mashed potatoes provide a comforting side that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of steak.
• Roasted vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots roasted until caramelized adds sweetness and color, enhancing your meal’s overall appeal.
• Mixed green salad: A light mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette brings balance to this hearty dish while adding crunch and freshness.
• Quinoa pilaf: Fluffy quinoa cooked with herbs and spices is a nutritious side that complements steak well and offers a lovely nutty flavor.

With these serving ideas, you’ll create a memorable dining experience that showcases your delicious steak pinwheels beautifully! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These steak pinwheels are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and enjoy their flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pinwheels to cool completely before storing.
• Place any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each pinwheel tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped pinwheels in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove the pinwheels from the refrigerator or freezer.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes if refrigerated, or 25-30 minutes if frozen, until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making steak pinwheels.

Can I use different fillings in my steak pinwheels?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your steak pinwheels with your favorite ingredients like roasted peppers, mushrooms, or different types of cheese.

How do I ensure my steak pinwheels are tender?

To achieve tender steak pinwheels, make sure to pound your flank steak evenly and marinate it long enough—ideally overnight—to help break down the fibers.

What should I serve with steak pinwheels?

Steak pinwheels pair well with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Can I make steak pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them the night before and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

What is the best way to slice steak pinwheels?

After baking, let your steak pinwheels rest for a few minutes. Use a sharp knife to slice them into 1-inch thick rounds for even pieces.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these flavorful steak pinwheels! They’re not just a meal; they’re an experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to your dining table. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family—let’s spread the love of cooking together!