Pinwheel steaks, also known as rolled steaks, offer a visually appealing and flavorful alternative to traditional steak preparation. The process of rolling and tying the steak creates a tender, juicy interior, and the oven method allows for even cooking and a wonderfully crisp exterior. This guide will walk you through cooking a perfect pinwheel steak in your oven, answering common questions along the way.
What is a Pinwheel Steak?
A pinwheel steak is a beef steak (typically sirloin, top round, or flank steak) that's been pounded thin, seasoned, and then rolled up tightly before being tied with kitchen twine. This creates a beautiful, cylindrical shape that cooks evenly and enhances the overall texture and presentation of the dish.
How to Prepare a Pinwheel Steak for Oven Cooking?
Ingredients:
- 1 (1-1.5 lb) beef steak (sirloin, top round, or flank steak work well)
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Optional: Your favorite herbs (rosemary, thyme, etc.) and/or cheese filling
Instructions:
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Pound the Steak: Place the steak between two sheets of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet to pound it to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch. Be careful not to pound it too thin or it will tear.
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Season the Steak: Evenly distribute the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and any optional herbs over the steak.
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Add Filling (Optional): Spread a thin layer of your chosen filling (e.g., shredded cheese, sauteed mushrooms, or spinach) across the steak.
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Roll the Steak: Starting from one of the longer sides, tightly roll the steak into a cylinder.
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Tie the Steak: Use kitchen twine to tie the rolled steak at 1-inch intervals to keep its shape during cooking.
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Sear (Optional): For extra flavor and a nice crust, you can sear the steak in a hot skillet with a little oil for 2-3 minutes per side before transferring it to the oven.
How Long to Bake a Pinwheel Steak?
The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your steak and your desired level of doneness. A general guideline is:
- Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C) internal temperature - approximately 20-25 minutes
- Medium-Rare: 135-140°F (57-60°C) internal temperature - approximately 25-30 minutes
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C) internal temperature - approximately 30-35 minutes
- Medium-Well: 145-150°F (63-66°C) internal temperature - approximately 35-40 minutes
- Well-Done: 150°F+ (66°C+) internal temperature - approximately 40+ minutes
It’s crucial to use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches your desired internal temperature. Oven temperatures can vary, so monitoring with a thermometer is essential for perfect results.
What Temperature Should I Bake a Pinwheel Steak At?
Bake the pinwheel steak at 375°F (190°C) for even cooking. This temperature allows for a good crust to develop while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
While beef sirloin, top round, and flank steaks are ideal, you can experiment with other cuts of beef or even pork. However, be mindful that different meats will require different cooking times and temperatures.
How Do I Know When My Pinwheel Steak Is Done?
The most reliable way to determine doneness is by using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak; avoid touching the twine. Refer to the temperature guide above for your desired level of doneness.
What to Serve with Pinwheel Steak?
Pinwheel steak pairs beautifully with various sides, including roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or a simple salad. A rich red wine sauce complements the savory flavors of the steak perfectly.
By following these instructions and using a meat thermometer, you'll be well on your way to creating a delicious and impressive pinwheel steak that will impress your family and friends. Remember to adjust cooking times based on your oven and the thickness of your steak. Enjoy!
