Flank steak pinwheels stuffed with spinach and cheese are like little flavor bombs that hit all the right notes. Imagine tender, juicy beef swirled around creamy cheese and vibrant spinach, all rolled up into a delightful meal that’s as impressive as it is delicious. honey roasted carrots with thyme Just the thought of it makes my mouth water!
Growing up, my family had a tradition of cooking together on Sundays. I’ll never forget the first time we made these delightful pinwheels; laughter filled the kitchen as we tried to roll them without letting the stuffing escape. zesty Greek potato salad These flank steak pinwheels became our go-to dish for family gatherings and special occasions. The excitement of slicing into them to reveal the beautiful spiral was always worth the effort.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Flank steak pinwheels are easy to prepare, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or fancy gatherings
- The combination of flavors creates a deliciously savory experience
- Visually stunning, they make any plate pop with color and style
- Their versatility means you can customize the filling to suit your taste or dietary needs
I remember my cousin’s eyes lighting up the first time she tasted these pinwheels at a barbecue. She declared them “the best thing ever,” and that’s saying something when you’re competing with burgers and hot dogs.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Flank Steak: Choose a fresh piece with good marbling for that juicy flavor and tenderness.
- Fresh Spinach: Opt for vibrant green leaves; they wilt beautifully and add great nutrition. For more inspiration, check out this blueberry spinach salad recipe.
- Cream Cheese: This will provide a rich, creamy texture that holds everything together.
- Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder enhances the savory depth of the filling. cheesy garlic breadsticks.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds a nutty flavor; use fresh if possible for better taste.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle helps keep everything moist during cooking; extra virgin is best here.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors in this dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Flank Steak: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay your flank steak flat on a cutting board and pound it gently with a meat mallet until it’s about ½ inch thick; this helps tenderize it.
Create the Filling: In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, chopped fresh spinach, garlic powder, and grated parmesan until combined. This should resemble a lush green paste that smells amazing!
Spread It Out: Place your mixture evenly on top of the flattened flank steak. Ensure every inch is covered; no one likes an empty bite!
Roll It Up: Starting from one end, carefully roll the flank steak tightly into a log shape. Use kitchen twine to secure it at both ends, this ensures none of that delicious stuffing escapes during baking.
Bake Until Perfect: Drizzle olive oil over your rolled steak and season generously with salt and pepper. Place it seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until it’s cooked to your preferred doneness.
Slicing Time: Once done, let your pinwheels rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing into 1-inch pieces. This will help retain those beautiful juices! Serve warm and watch your guests’ faces light up.
With these instructions in hand, you’re ready to create an unforgettable meal that combines simplicity with gourmet flair, perfect for impressing friends or just treating yourself after a long day!
You Must Know
- Flank Steak Pinwheels Stuffed with Spinach & Cheese is a showstopper at gatherings
- The vibrant colors and rich flavors will impress your guests, while the ease of preparation makes it a go-to dish for weeknight dinners
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the flank steak to lock in juices, then bake to finish cooking through. This combination offers a flavorful crust while ensuring tenderness inside.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping the spinach for kale or adding sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor punch. Mix and match ingredients based on your preference!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F to retain moisture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect pinwheels, ensure even thickness of the steak; unevenness can lead to inconsistent cooking
- Always let the meat rest after cooking for juicier bites
- Use fresh herbs for vibrant flavor enhancements that elevate your dish
Sharing this recipe reminds me of a family gathering where my aunt declared these pinwheels “the best thing since sliced bread.” Her praise turned me into a culinary superhero that day!
FAQ
Can I use another cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute with flank or skirt steak for similar results.
What can I serve with Flank Steak Pinwheels?
Pair them with roasted vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal. refreshing cilantro lime pasta salad.
How do I know when the pinwheels are cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer; aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for medium-rare.
Flank Steak Pinwheels with Spinach and Cheese
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Flank steak pinwheels stuffed with spinach and cheese are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining tender beef with a creamy, flavorful filling. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a vibrant presentation that will impress your guests. Easy to prepare and customize, these pinwheels deliver a burst of flavor with every bite, making them a memorable addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Flatten the flank steak on a cutting board using a meat mallet until about ½ inch thick.
- In a bowl, combine cream cheese, chopped spinach, garlic powder, and Parmesan until smooth.
- Spread the filling evenly over the steak. Roll tightly into a log and secure with kitchen twine at both ends.
- Drizzle olive oil over the roll and season with salt and pepper. Place seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked to your liking. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing into 1-inch pieces.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pinwheel (approximately 130g)
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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