Creamy Spinach Stuffed Flank Steak Pinwheels Recipe

Creamy Spinach Stuffed Flank Steak Pinwheels offer a delicious and elegant twist on a traditional steak dinner. The flank steak is rolled up with a rich filling of cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and fresh spinach, creating a flavorful and tender bite. After being seared and baked to perfection, these pinwheels are ideal for any special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds flank steak
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped spinach
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the flank steak horizontally to create a flat surface, ensuring it’s evenly thick for easier rolling.
3. In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, spinach, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until the ingredients are well combined.
4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the surface of the flank steak.
5. Carefully roll up the flank steak tightly, securing it with toothpicks to hold the filling in place.
6. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the steak on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Transfer the seared steak rolls to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
8. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing into pinwheels for easy serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

• Add Herbs: Add fresh herbs such as basil, thyme, or rosemary to the cream cheese filling for extra flavor.
• Cheese Options: Swap the Parmesan cheese for other cheeses like mozzarella, ricotta, or goat cheese for different textures and tastes.
• Vegetable Add-ins: You can include other vegetables such as sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions in the filling to enhance the dish.
• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture for a spicy kick.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the pinwheels in a baking dish covered with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different cut of beef instead of flank steak? Yes, you can substitute flank steak with skirt steak, sirloin, or even chicken breast for a lighter alternative.
2. Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the pinwheels and refrigerate them for up to 1 day before cooking. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking.
3. How do I know when the steak is done? Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 135°F (57°C), and for medium, aim for 145°F (63°C).
4. Can I cook the pinwheels on the grill? Yes, these pinwheels can be grilled over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, then transferred to the oven to finish cooking.
5. Can I make this recipe without the cream cheese? Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with a ricotta or mascarpone cheese for a different flavor profile.
6. Is there a way to make the pinwheels spicier? Yes, you can add red pepper flakes, jalapeño, or even a spicy mustard to the cream cheese mixture to add heat.
7. Can I make this recipe without the garlic? If you prefer a milder flavor, simply omit the garlic from the filling. You can also substitute it with garlic powder for a subtler taste.
8. How do I slice the pinwheels evenly? After resting the steak, use a sharp serrated knife to slice the pinwheels into equal pieces, about 1-2 inches thick.
9. Can I freeze the pinwheels? Yes, you can freeze the assembled and uncooked pinwheels for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, but increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes.
10. What should I serve with the pinwheels? These pinwheels pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Creamy Spinach Stuffed Flank Steak Pinwheels are a flavorful, impressive dish that’s perfect for dinner parties, family meals, or a special occasion. The rich cream cheese filling complements the tender flank steak, making each bite irresistible. With a simple prep process and a balance of savory flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

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