Flank Steak Pinwheels Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping yet surprisingly simple dish to impress both family and friends, this Flank Steak Pinwheels Recipe is just what you need. Imagine tender flank steak rolled up with fresh spinach, sweet roasted red peppers, and melty provolone cheese—all seasoned to perfection and baked to juicy, flavorful delight. Each bite offers a perfect combination of savory richness, vibrant veggies, and creamy cheese wrapped up in a beautiful spiral that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. This recipe brings elegance and comfort together on a plate, making it a new favorite you’ll find yourself craving again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to mastering this dish. Each component plays a special role in building layers of flavor and texture—from the robust, well-seasoned flank steak to the fresh, crisp spinach and the mellow provolone cheese that ties everything together.

• Flank steak: The star of the show; choose a fresh, evenly thick cut for rolling ease.
• Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the meat and filling.
• Black pepper: Adds a sharp, warming bite that complements the steak’s richness.
• Garlic powder: Provides a subtle, aromatic depth without overpowering.
• Onion powder: Balances the garlic with a mild sweetness and savory undertone.
• Paprika: Brings color and a gentle smoky warmth to the seasoning mix.
• Olive oil: Helps seal in moisture and creates a beautiful crust when searing.
• Spinach leaves: Offers a fresh, leafy green contrast and a burst of nutrients.
• Roasted red peppers: Adds sweetness and a vibrant pop of color inside the pinwheels.
• Provolone cheese: Melts into creamy pockets that perfectly complement the savory meat and vegetables.

How to Make Flank Steak Pinwheels Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F to ensure it’s ready when your pinwheels are seared and ready to go. This initial heat sets the stage for a juicy, tender finish.

Step 2: Season the Steak

Lay your flank steak flat on a cutting board and generously season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. These simple spices guarantee a deliciously balanced crust and flavor profile for the pinwheels.

Step 3: Coat With Olive Oil

Drizzle olive oil all over the seasoned flank steak and rub it in thoroughly. This step not only adds richness but also ensures you get a gorgeous sear when you hit the skillet.

Step 4: Add the Filling

Now comes the fun part: layer fresh spinach leaves, sweet roasted red peppers, and slices of provolone cheese evenly over the top of the steak. This combination creates a vibrant, juicy filling that surprises your palate.

Step 5: Roll It Up

Starting from one end, carefully but tightly roll the flank steak into a neat pinwheel shape. This ensures your filling stays beautifully contained throughout cooking.

Step 6: Secure the Pinwheels

Tie the rolled flank steak at 1-inch intervals with kitchen twine. This keeps your pinwheels intact while cooking and helps maintain their shape for a stunning presentation.

Step 7: Sear for Flavor

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear each side of your pinwheels until they develop a deeply browned, caramelized crust. This step locks in juices and elevates the texture.

Step 8: Oven Roasting

Transfer the skillet with the seared pinwheels to the preheated oven. Roast for 15 to 20 minutes or until the steak cooks to your preferred doneness—medium-rare to medium is perfect for juicy tenderness.

Step 9: Rest and Slice

Remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice moist and tender. Then carefully slice into rounds and get ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Flank Steak Pinwheels Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil brighten the plate and add a fresh contrast to the rich pinwheels. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also elevate the presentation and flavor to another level.

Side Dishes

These pinwheels pair beautifully with simple roasted vegetables or a crisp mixed green salad to balance richness. Creamy mashed potatoes, garlic roasted potatoes, or a flavorful quinoa salad also make fantastic accompaniments.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the sliced pinwheels standing upright on a wooden board for a rustic feel or neatly lined on a decorative platter for a more elegant appearance. Serving alongside colorful vegetable sides adds visual appeal and makes the plate pop.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover pinwheels in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This dish keeps well and tastes great when reheated gently.

Freezing

If you want to save them longer, tightly wrap individual pinwheels in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal ready anytime you need a quick gourmet fix.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a low oven (about 300°F) until warmed through to keep the steak tender and cheese melty. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can dry out the meat and affect texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?

Flank steak is ideal because it rolls easily and has great flavor, but you can experiment with skirt steak or sirloin if you prefer. Just make sure the steak is thin and uniform for rolling.

What if I don’t have roasted red peppers?

You can substitute with sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed bell peppers. These alternatives provide a similar sweetness and vibrant color that complements the filling perfectly.

How do I know when the steak is cooked properly?

Use a meat thermometer for accuracy: aim for about 130°F for medium-rare and 140°F for medium. The final resting period will bring the temperature up a few degrees for perfect doneness.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble and roll the pinwheels a few hours in advance, keep them refrigerated, and then cook right before serving for maximum freshness and flavor.

Is there a vegetarian version of the Flank Steak Pinwheels Recipe?

While this recipe is centered on flank steak, you could create vegetarian pinwheels using large portobello mushrooms or eggplant slices with the same fillings for a delicious twist without the meat.

Final Thoughts

This Flank Steak Pinwheels Recipe effortlessly combines beautiful presentation, amazing flavors, and straightforward preparation to bring something truly special to your kitchen. Whether you’re serving a weeknight dinner with a bit of flair or impressing guests at a weekend gathering, these pinwheels are guaranteed to become a beloved classic. Don’t wait—grab your steak and ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this delicious adventure!

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