Beef Pinwheel
Savory beef pinwheel filled with spinach and cheese offers a delightful combination of flavors, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests seeking comfort food with a gourmet twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lightly but thoroughly combine ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, 1 teaspoon salt, and pepper.
- Combine defrosted and drained chopped spinach, 1/2 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, remaining salt, and garlic powder.
- Place beef mixture on wax paper and pat into a 14 x 10-inch rectangle.
- Spread spinach mixture over beef, leaving 3/4 inch of edge on all sides.
- Roll from the short end to form a log.
- Press beef over the ends to seal.
- Place the loaf seam side down in a baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour, then spread catsup over the top and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Sprinkle remaining Mozzarella cheese over the loaf before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped onions or bell peppers with the beef mixture. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked spinach or even substitute with other greens like kale. Make sure to thoroughly drain the spinach to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the texture of the pinwheel. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beef pinwheel sliced into rounds for an appealing presentation. It pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside mashed potatoes or pasta to soak up any juices. For a fun twist, try it with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, similar to Sloppy Joe Pocket Sandwiches.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover beef pinwheel can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheating in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes will keep the crust crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Pinwheel contains roughly 646 calories, with 15g protein, 131g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (31% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and potassium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 828mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just be aware that the cooking time may vary slightly, and you might want to add additional seasonings to enhance the flavor since these meats can be milder than beef.
How do I prevent the pinwheel from falling apart when slicing?
To ensure the pinwheel holds together, make sure to tightly roll the beef mixture and seal the edges well. Chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before slicing can also help firm it up, making it easier to cut without falling apart.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef and spinach mixtures a day in advance and assemble the pinwheel, then cover and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving for a fresh and hot dish. This makes it a great option for entertaining or meal prep.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).