Steak Pinwheels

Tender flank steak wrapped around a flavorful mixture of cheeses, spinach, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes creates an unforgettable dining experience. This steak pinwheel recipe transforms an ordinary cut of meat into something extraordinary that will impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy it. The combination of textures and flavors in each spiral slice delivers a perfect balance of savory goodness that makes this dish truly special.

I first made these pinwheels for my husband's birthday dinner, and they've become our go-to special occasion meal. The way the cheese melts into the tender steak creates this incredible juicy texture that regular steak just can't match.

Perfect Ingredients Selection

• Flank Steak: Choose a piece with even thickness and minimal fat pockets for the best rolling results—look for bright red color and slight marbling for optimal flavor
• Marinade Components: The combination of olive oil, soy sauce, red wine, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon creates a depth of flavor that tenderizes while adding complexity
• Fresh Spinach: Select bright green, crisp leaves without any wilting—they'll provide color, nutrition, and a pleasant texture contrast
• Cheese Blend: Swiss provides the melty goodness while Parmesan adds that nutty, salty punch—make sure to freshly grate both for best melting properties
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These concentrated flavor bombs bring a sweet-tart element that cuts through the richness—choose oil-packed for the most intense flavor

Creating Your Masterpiece

Marinate Thoroughly:

Begin by whisking olive oil, soy sauce, red wine, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and black pepper in a bowl until fully combined. Pound your flank steak to about 1/2-inch thickness, then make shallow diagonal cuts across the surface. Place steak in a resealable bag with marinade and refrigerate overnight, turning occasionally for even flavor distribution.

Prepare The Base:

Remove marinated steak from refrigerator and pat dry with paper towels. Create a flavorful garlic paste by mashing minced garlic with salt using the flat side of your knife, then spread this paste evenly across the entire surface of the steak.

Layer With Care:

Sprinkle chopped onion and bread crumbs over the garlic base, distributing evenly to all edges. Arrange fresh spinach leaves in a single layer, then add shredded Swiss, grated Parmesan, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes in even layers.

Roll And Secure:

Starting from one short end, carefully roll the steak tightly, enclosing all fillings. Secure with kitchen twine at one-inch intervals to maintain shape. Place seam-side down in your baking dish.

Bake To Perfection:

Cook uncovered at 350°F for approximately one hour until internal temperature reaches 145°F. Allow to rest before slicing into one-inch medallions to serve.

Pin it

My mother-in-law couldn't believe I made these myself the first time I served them at a family gathering. She kept commenting on how the sun-dried tomatoes added this perfect tangy contrast to the rich steak. Now whenever she visits, she specifically requests "those fancy steak spirals."

Impressive Serving Ideas

Transform your dining experience by pairing these savory pinwheels with complementary sides. Creamy mashed potatoes create the perfect canvas for soaking up the flavorful juices, while roasted asparagus adds a fresh, earthy element that balances the richness. For a more elegant presentation, serve sliced pinwheels over a bed of peppery arugula drizzled with balsamic glaze, allowing the warm steak to slightly wilt the greens.

Delicious Alternatives

Customize this versatile dish to suit various preferences or what's available in your kitchen. Replace spinach with sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions for an earthy, sweet variation that complements the steak beautifully. Swap the cheese combination for blue cheese crumbles and mozzarella to create a bold, creamy filling with pronounced flavor contrast. For a Mediterranean twist, incorporate roasted red peppers, feta cheese, and olives while using fresh herbs like oregano in your marinade.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

Preserve the quality of your steak pinwheels with proper storage techniques. Store completely cooled leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking to maintain food safety standards. They'll remain delicious for up to three days when properly refrigerated. When reheating, avoid microwave methods which can toughen the meat. Instead, place pinwheels in a 300°F oven covered with foil for 15-20 minutes until warmed through to an internal temperature of 165°F.

I've made these pinwheels dozens of times over the years, and they never fail to impress. What I love most is how versatile they are—elegant enough for special occasions but simple enough that you can master them with a little practice. The combination of that savory marinade with the melted cheese and sun-dried tomatoes creates something truly magical that elevates an ordinary cut of meat into something extraordinary.

Pin it

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I prepare steak pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the steak overnight and even assemble the pinwheels a day before cooking. Just wrap tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with steak pinwheels?

These pinwheels pair well with roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad. Garlic bread also makes a great side.

→ Can I use a different cut of meat?

Flank steak works best for pinwheels because it's thin and rolls easily. Skirt steak could work as an alternative, but you'll need to pound it thin.

→ How do I know when the steak pinwheels are done?

Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part - it should read 145°F for medium-rare or 160°F for medium. Let it rest before slicing.

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, but thaw and squeeze out all excess moisture first. Fresh spinach gives better texture but frozen works in a pinch.

→ Is there a way to make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and check that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free (some brands contain wheat).