Beef Florentine pinwheels are a fantastic way to impress your family and friends with a dish that looks as good as it tastes. These pinwheels feature tender flank steak rolled up with a savory filling of spinach, creamy cheeses, and flavorful herbs. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to delight. Let’s dive into how to cook beef Florentine pinwheels with easy-to-follow steps and tips!
What Are Beef Florentine Pinwheels?
Beef Florentine pinwheels are thin slices of beef, typically flank steak, that are butterflied, flattened, and spread with a rich filling of sautéed spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic, and herbs. The beef is then rolled tightly into a log, secured, seared, and baked until juicy and tender. The result is a visually stunning and flavorful dish that slices into beautiful spirals, perfect for serving as a main course or appetizer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious dish, gather the following:
– 1 pound flank steak (butterflied and pounded thin)
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
– ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
– Fresh herbs like basil or parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
– Balsamic vinegar (for drizzling when serving)
These ingredients combine to create a rich, creamy, and savory filling that complements the beef perfectly.
Preparing the Filling
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add the fresh spinach (and mushrooms if using) and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a bowl, mix the cooked spinach and mushrooms with cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh herbs, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and stir until combined into a creamy filling.
Preparing the Beef
- Butterfly the flank steak by slicing it horizontally but not all the way through, then open it like a book.
- Use a meat mallet to pound the steak evenly to about ¼ inch thickness.
- Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Lay the steak flat on a clean surface, ready for the filling.
Assembling the Pinwheels
- Spread the prepared spinach and cheese filling evenly over the surface of the steak, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Starting from one end, roll the steak tightly into a log, keeping the filling snug inside.
- Secure the roll with kitchen twine or toothpicks to hold its shape during cooking.
- Chill the assembled pinwheels in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to firm up.
Cooking the Beef Florentine Pinwheels
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the pinwheels for 3-4 minutes on each side until nicely browned.
- Transfer the seared pinwheels to a baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing into 1-inch thick pieces.
Serving Suggestions
Beef Florentine pinwheels pair wonderfully with a variety of sides:
– Garlic mashed potatoes
– Roasted vegetables like asparagus or carrots
– A fresh green salad
– Rice pilaf
– Crusty bread
Drizzle with balsamic vinegar or a bit of pesto for an extra flavor boost. For drinks, a medium-bodied red or white wine complements the dish beautifully.
Tips for Success
– Use high-quality flank steak for the best flavor and tenderness.
– Don’t skip pounding the steak thin; it ensures even cooking and easier rolling.
– Season the filling well to balance the richness of the cheeses.
– Searing before baking locks in juices and adds a beautiful crust.
– You can prepare the pinwheels a day ahead, refrigerate them, and bake just before serving.
Beef Florentine pinwheels are a crowd-pleaser that combines elegance with comfort food vibes. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that’s both delicious and visually impressive.
Enjoy your cooking adventure and the delicious results!