Steak Pinwheels are a visually stunning and incredibly flavorful dish that combines tender beef, savory fillings, and a show-stopping presentation. This dish takes a simple cut of steak, such as flank or skirt steak, and transforms it into a spiral masterpiece stuffed with delicious ingredients like spinach, cheese, herbs, and roasted red peppers. Steak pinwheels are perfect for a romantic dinner, special occasion, or even as an impressive appetizer at a party.
What makes this recipe so irresistible is its versatility and ability to cater to different tastes. You can fill your steak pinwheels with a classic combination of spinach, garlic, and mozzarella, or switch things up with sun-dried tomatoes, goat cheese, or even caramelized onions. Once rolled, tied, and cooked, these pinwheels deliver a tender, juicy, and flavorful bite in every slice.
Whether you’re a steak enthusiast or simply looking to try something new, steak pinwheels offer an elegant yet approachable dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Beautiful Presentation: The spiral design makes this dish a feast for the eyes, perfect for impressing dinner guests.
- Packed with Flavor: The filling combines fresh spinach, cheese, and herbs for a savory, melty, and aromatic bite.
- Tender and Juicy Steak: Flank or skirt steak, when properly prepared, is tender and full of rich beef flavor.
- Customizable Fillings: Switch up the ingredients to suit your preferences or use what you have on hand.
- Halal-Friendly: This recipe uses halal-compliant ingredients and methods, ensuring it’s suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.
- Great for Entertaining: These pinwheels are easy to portion and serve, making them perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Prep time: 25 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Serving Size: 2-3 pinwheels per person
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Ingredients
For the Steak:
- 1 ½ pounds flank steak or skirt steak
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
For the Filling:
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or provolone)
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ cup roasted red peppers, thinly sliced (or sun-dried tomatoes)
For Tying and Cooking:
- 4-6 pieces of kitchen twine, cut into 8-10 inch lengths
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Shaved parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
- Butterfly the steak: Lay the flank steak on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the steak horizontally, starting from one long edge and cutting almost all the way through, leaving about ½ inch uncut. Open the steak like a book to create a larger, thinner piece of meat.
- Pound the steak: Place a sheet of plastic wrap over the steak and use a meat mallet to pound it to an even thickness of about ¼ inch. This ensures the steak cooks evenly and is tender.
- Season the steak: Remove the plastic wrap and season both sides of the steak with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Sauté the spinach: Heat a small skillet over medium heat with 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Add the chopped spinach and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Combine the filling ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, mozzarella, parmesan, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
Step 3: Assemble the Pinwheels
- Spread the filling: Lay the prepared steak flat on the cutting board with the grain of the meat running horizontally. Spread the spinach and cheese filling evenly over the surface of the steak, leaving about 1 inch of space along the edges to prevent overflow.
- Add the roasted red peppers: Lay the thinly sliced roasted red peppers over the spinach and cheese mixture in an even layer.
- Roll the steak: Starting from one of the long edges, tightly roll the steak into a log. Make sure the roll is firm but not so tight that the filling spills out.
- Tie the steak roll: Use kitchen twine to tie the rolled steak at 2-inch intervals, securing the shape and ensuring the filling stays in place.
Step 4: Sear and Cook the Pinwheels
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sear the steak roll: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak roll on all sides for about 2-3 minutes per side, until browned.
- Bake the pinwheels: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness (130°F for medium-rare or 140°F for medium).
- Rest the steak: Remove the steak roll from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat tender.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
- Slice the pinwheels: Use a sharp knife to carefully slice the steak roll into 1-inch thick pinwheels. Cut between the twine, then remove the twine from each piece before serving.
- Garnish and serve: Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter and garnish with fresh parsley and shaved parmesan cheese. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Ingredient Background
Flank or Skirt Steak: These cuts are ideal for pinwheels because they’re thin, flavorful, and easy to roll. When prepared correctly, they remain tender and juicy, even after baking.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and earthy flavor to the filling. Sautéing it with garlic enhances its taste and ensures it cooks evenly inside the pinwheels.
Cheese: Mozzarella provides a gooey, melty texture, while parmesan adds a nutty, savory element. Other cheeses, such as provolone or goat cheese, can be used for variation.
Roasted Red Peppers: These add a touch of sweetness and smoky flavor to the filling, complementing the richness of the beef.
Herbs and Spices: Oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes bring an Italian-inspired flavor profile to the dish.
Technique Tips
- Slice Against the Grain: After the steak roll is cooked, slice the pinwheels against the grain of the meat for maximum tenderness.
- Secure the Filling: Tying the roll tightly with kitchen twine prevents the filling from falling out during cooking.
- Don’t Overstuff: Be mindful not to overfill the steak, as this can make it difficult to roll and cause the filling to spill out.
- Rest the Meat: Always allow the meat to rest after cooking to retain its juices and flavor.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
- Appetizer Pinwheels: Slice the steak into smaller, bite-sized pinwheels and serve them as appetizers with toothpicks.
- Over Pasta: Serve the pinwheels on a bed of garlic butter spaghetti or fettuccine for a complete meal.
- Skewer Style: Instead of rolling the steak into one log, slice it into smaller strips, roll each individually, and skewer them for grilling.
Additional Tips for Success
- Use Plastic Wrap for Rolling: Placing plastic wrap under the steak makes it easier to roll and keeps the filling in place.
- Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Experiment with Fillings: Try adding sun-dried tomatoes, caramelized onions, mushrooms, or even crumbled feta to the filling for variety.
Recipe Variations
- Cheesy Mushroom Pinwheels: Add sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese to the filling for a hearty twist.
- Mediterranean Style: Use feta cheese, kalamata olives, and spinach for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the roasted red peppers and replace the cheese with a low-carb alternative for a keto-friendly meal.
- Grilled Pinwheels: Instead of baking, grill the pinwheels over medium heat for a smoky, charred flavor.
Freezing and Storage
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store cooked pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
- Freeze Before Cooking: Assemble and tie the steak roll, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
Healthier Twist Ideas
- Use Leaner Meat: Opt for a leaner cut like sirloin if you want to reduce fat content.
- Add More Vegetables: Incorporate more veggies like zucchini or bell peppers into the filling for added nutrients.
- Reduce Cheese: Cut back on the cheese or use a lighter variety to lower calories and fat.
Serving Suggestions for Events
- Romantic Dinner: Pair the steak pinwheels with creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, and a glass of red wine.
- Holiday Dinner: Serve alongside roasted Brussels sprouts and garlic herb bread for an elegant holiday spread.
- Party Appetizer: Cut the pinwheels into smaller slices and arrange them on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving.
Special Equipment
- Meat Mallet: For pounding the steak to an even thickness.
- Kitchen Twine: Essential for tying the steak roll securely.
- Oven-Safe Skillet: A cast-iron or stainless-steel skillet works best for searing and baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What’s the best cut of meat for steak pinwheels? Flank steak and skirt steak are the best options, as they’re thin and easy to roll.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the steak roll in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.
- What if I don’t have kitchen twine? Toothpicks can be used to secure the roll, but make sure to remove them before serving.
- How do I prevent the steak from drying out? Don’t overcook the steak, and be sure to rest it after baking to retain moisture.
- Can I grill steak pinwheels instead of baking them? Absolutely! Grill the pinwheels over medium heat, flipping occasionally, until cooked to your desired doneness.
- What can I use instead of spinach? Kale, arugula, or even Swiss chard are great substitutes for spinach.
- Can I freeze leftover pinwheels? Yes, wrap them tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
- What’s a good sauce to serve with steak pinwheels? A balsamic glaze, chimichurri, or garlic herb butter pairs beautifully with this dish.
Conclusion
Steak Pinwheels are an elegant and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from intimate dinners to grand celebrations. With tender steak, savory fillings, and a stunning spiral presentation, this recipe is sure to impress both the eyes and the taste buds. Whether you stick to the classic spinach and cheese filling or experiment with your favorite flavors, steak pinwheels are a guaranteed hit. Try this recipe today and elevate your steak game with this flavorful and visually striking dish!
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Steak Pinwheels Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
For the Steak:
- 1 ½ pounds flank steak or skirt steak
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
For the Filling:
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or provolone)
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ cup roasted red peppers, thinly sliced (or sun-dried tomatoes)
For Tying and Cooking:
- 4–6 pieces of kitchen twine, cut into 8–10 inch lengths
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Shaved parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
- Butterfly the steak: Lay the flank steak on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the steak horizontally, starting from one long edge and cutting almost all the way through, leaving about ½ inch uncut. Open the steak like a book to create a larger, thinner piece of meat.
- Pound the steak: Place a sheet of plastic wrap over the steak and use a meat mallet to pound it to an even thickness of about ¼ inch. This ensures the steak cooks evenly and is tender.
- Season the steak: Remove the plastic wrap and season both sides of the steak with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Sauté the spinach: Heat a small skillet over medium heat with 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Add the chopped spinach and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Combine the filling ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, mozzarella, parmesan, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
Step 3: Assemble the Pinwheels
- Spread the filling: Lay the prepared steak flat on the cutting board with the grain of the meat running horizontally. Spread the spinach and cheese filling evenly over the surface of the steak, leaving about 1 inch of space along the edges to prevent overflow.
- Add the roasted red peppers: Lay the thinly sliced roasted red peppers over the spinach and cheese mixture in an even layer.
- Roll the steak: Starting from one of the long edges, tightly roll the steak into a log. Make sure the roll is firm but not so tight that the filling spills out.
- Tie the steak roll: Use kitchen twine to tie the rolled steak at 2-inch intervals, securing the shape and ensuring the filling stays in place.
Step 4: Sear and Cook the Pinwheels
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sear the steak roll: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak roll on all sides for about 2-3 minutes per side, until browned.
- Bake the pinwheels: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness (130°F for medium-rare or 140°F for medium).
- Rest the steak: Remove the steak roll from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat tender.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
- Slice the pinwheels: Use a sharp knife to carefully slice the steak roll into 1-inch thick pinwheels. Cut between the twine, then remove the twine from each piece before serving.
- Garnish and serve: Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter and garnish with fresh parsley and shaved parmesan cheese. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
- Prep Time: 25 Minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2-3 pinwheels per person
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Fat: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g