Pinwheel steak, with its elegant presentation and succulent flavor, is a showstopper for any occasion. This guide will walk you through the process of cooking a perfectly tender and flavorful pinwheel steak in the oven, answering all your burning questions along the way. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, you'll find this recipe easy to follow and incredibly rewarding.
What is a Pinwheel Steak?
A pinwheel steak is a beautiful and flavorful cut of beef created by butterflying a steak (thinning it horizontally), then spreading it with a flavorful filling, and tightly rolling it up. This creates a cylindrical shape that cooks evenly and offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes. Popular fillings include herbs, cheeses, and vegetables.
What kind of steak is best for a pinwheel?
Several cuts of beef work well for pinwheel steaks. Flank steak, sirloin steak, and top round steak are popular choices due to their relatively lean nature and ability to hold their shape during cooking. The key is to select a cut that's tender enough to slice thinly without tearing, yet robust enough to retain its shape when rolled. Thicker cuts might require a longer cooking time.
How to prepare a pinwheel steak for oven cooking?
1. Choosing and Preparing Your Steak:
- Begin with a quality steak. Look for well-marbled beef for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Carefully butterfly the steak using a sharp, thin-bladed knife. Make a horizontal cut almost all the way through the steak, leaving about 1/4 inch intact to hold the piece together.
- Gently pound the steak to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This ensures even cooking.
2. Creating Your Filling:
The filling options are endless! Here are a few ideas:
- Classic Herb & Garlic: Mix softened butter with minced garlic, chopped fresh rosemary, thyme, and parsley.
- Spicy Pepper Jack: Combine shredded pepper jack cheese with chopped jalapeños and a sprinkle of cumin.
- Cream Cheese & Spinach: Mix softened cream cheese with sautéed spinach and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Be creative and experiment with your favorite flavors!
3. Rolling and Securing the Pinwheel:
Spread your chosen filling evenly over the butterflied steak. Tightly roll the steak from one end to the other. Secure the roll with kitchen twine at 1-inch intervals to prevent it from unrolling during cooking.
How long do you cook a pinwheel steak in the oven?
The cooking time depends on the thickness of your steak and your desired level of doneness. A general guideline is as follows:
- Rare: 125-130°F (52-54°C) internal temperature – approximately 20-25 minutes
- Medium-Rare: 130-140°F (54-60°C) internal temperature – approximately 25-30 minutes
- Medium: 140-150°F (60-66°C) internal temperature – approximately 30-35 minutes
- Medium-Well: 150-160°F (66-71°C) internal temperature – approximately 35-40 minutes
- Well-Done: 160°F+ (71°C+) internal temperature – approximately 40+ minutes
Important: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches your desired internal temperature. Overcooked pinwheel steak will be tough and dry.
What temperature should I cook a pinwheel steak at?
The optimal oven temperature for cooking a pinwheel steak is 375°F (190°C). This allows for even cooking throughout the roll and helps to render the fat within the steak, resulting in a juicy and tender final product.
How do I know when my pinwheel steak is done?
The most accurate way to determine doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the roll, avoiding the twine. Refer to the temperature guidelines above for your desired level of doneness. You can also visually check for doneness by making a small incision – the color of the juices will indicate the level of doneness (clear for well-done, pink for medium-rare, etc.)
Can I cook a pinwheel steak in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Slow cooking a pinwheel steak results in an incredibly tender and flavorful result. Sear the rolled steak in a skillet before placing it in the slow cooker for a richer flavor. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the internal temperature reaches at least 190°F (88°C).
Following these steps will ensure your pinwheel steak is cooked perfectly in the oven, resulting in a delicious, impressive meal. Remember to adjust cooking times based on the thickness of your steak and your preferred level of doneness. Enjoy!
