Steak pinwheels are a fantastic appetizer or main course, offering a fun twist on classic steak. Their elegant presentation and flavorful filling make them perfect for parties or a special dinner. This guide will walk you through the process of creating perfectly cooked steak pinwheels in the oven, answering common questions along the way.
What are Steak Pinwheels?
Steak pinwheels are essentially thin slices of steak rolled up with a flavorful filling. The filling can vary widely, depending on your taste preferences. Popular choices include cheese, herbs, vegetables, or a combination thereof. The rolled-up steak is then baked or pan-fried until cooked to your desired doneness. The result is a juicy, flavorful, and visually appealing dish.
How to Prepare Steak Pinwheels for Oven Baking: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ingredients:
- 1-1.5 lbs flank steak or sirloin tip steak (thinly sliced is ideal, but you can pound a thicker steak to desired thinness)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup finely chopped chives
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Steak: If using a thicker steak, gently pound it to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch using a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy pan. This ensures even cooking.
- Make the Filling: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chives, minced garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
- Assemble the Pinwheels: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the surface of the steak. Tightly roll the steak from one long side to the other, creating a tight cylinder.
- Secure the Roll: Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the roll and prevent it from unraveling during cooking.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the steak pinwheel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes for medium-rare, or longer depending on your preferred doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches your desired level (130-135°F for medium-rare, 140-145°F for medium).
- Rest and Slice: Remove from the oven and let the steak pinwheel rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Slice into 1-inch thick pinwheels and serve.
What Temperature Should I Cook Steak Pinwheels To?
The ideal temperature for cooking steak pinwheels depends on your preferred doneness. Use a meat thermometer to accurately check the internal temperature:
- Rare: 125-130°F (52-54°C)
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Medium-Well: 150-155°F (66-68°C)
- Well-Done: 160°F (71°C) and above
Remember that the steak will continue to cook slightly after it's removed from the oven, so it’s best to take it out a few degrees before your target temperature.
Can I Make Steak Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the steak pinwheels ahead of time. Wrap the assembled roll tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or entertaining. You may need to add a few minutes to the baking time if cooking from chilled.
What Other Fillings Can I Use for Steak Pinwheels?
The possibilities for fillings are endless! Experiment with different combinations to find your favorites. Here are a few ideas:
- Mushroom and Swiss: Sautéed mushrooms with melted Swiss cheese
- Spinach and Artichoke: A creamy spinach and artichoke dip
- Pepperoni and Cheese: Thinly sliced pepperoni with mozzarella cheese
- Pesto and Mozzarella: Basil pesto with fresh mozzarella
How Do I Keep Steak Pinwheels Warm After Baking?
To keep steak pinwheels warm after baking, you can place them in a preheated 200°F (93°C) oven or use a warming drawer. You can also wrap them loosely in foil to help retain heat.
By following these steps and tips, you'll be well on your way to creating delicious and impressive steak pinwheels that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy!